Gumbo in a Jiffy Recipe – American Special

If you’re craving bold flavors but short on time, Gumbo in a Jiffy delivers an authentic Creole spices experience in a one-pot dinner that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you go with seafood or chicken, this easy gumbo builds flavor with a thickened roux, bell peppers, onion, and celery—all simmered together for a soul-warming meal. Comfort food doesn’t get simpler than this, especially when you want all the depth of traditional gumbo without hours in the kitchen.

  • Prep Time10 min
  • Cook Time30 min
  • Total Time40 min
  • Course
  • Cuisine
    • America

For the Gumbo:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for the roux)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
  • 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 pound cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon file powder (optional, for thickening)

For Serving:

  • Cooked white rice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Green onions, sliced (optional)

Prepare the Roux:

1

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2

Gradually add the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth paste.

3

Continue stirring for about 10-15 minutes until the roux turns a deep golden brown.

Cook the Vegetables:

4

Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux.

5

Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Add the Broth and Meats:

6

Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken or seafood broth.

7

Add the smoked sausage, cooked chicken, Cajun seasoning, and bay leaf.

8

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the Shrimp and Finish:

9

Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

10

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

11

If desired, sprinkle file powder to thicken the gumbo further.

Serve:

12

Remove the bay leaf and discard.

13

Serve the gumbo over a bowl of white rice.

14

Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions for added flavor.

Recipe Notes :

Meat Choices: Use chicken thighs for juicy texture or shrimp / Andouille sausage if you like seafood—mixing them offers robust flavor.

Roux Color & Consistency: For classic gumbo taste, cook the roux until peanut butter color; darker roux adds more nuttiness but be careful not to burn.

Spice Adjustments: Adjust Creole seasoning according to your heat tolerance; you can add cayenne or hot sauce for extra kick.

Storage Tips: Let the gumbo cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for 2-3 days and the flavors deepen overnight.

Serving Suggestions: Serve over steamed white rice with chopped parsley; garnish with green onions for freshness. Accompany with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up that delicious sauce.