Instant Pot Jambalaya

A powerhouse of bold Cajun flavor comes together in this instant pot jambalaya recipe with a hearty mix of plump shrimp, sausage, and the holy trinity of Cajun cuisine.

Why this recipe works

This carefully crafted instant pot jambalaya recipe leaves you with the most in-your-face flavorful dish packed with juicy shrimp, andouille sausage, rice, and loads of spices and seasonings.

There’s really nothing quite like a steamy bowl of hearty jambalaya that incorporates some of soul food’s most popular ingredients. What’s even better is that it’s made entirely in the pressure cooker so there’s no need to dirty up extra pans or dishes. Let’s jump right into it.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

HOLY TRINITY – Celery, onion, and bell peppers. These are a must and are featured in a large portion of delicious Cajun dishes, like our dirty rice or Cajun red beans and rice recipe.

SAUSAGE – We are using andouille, but you can substitute with smoked sausage if preferred.

SHRIMP – Leaving the tails on the shrimp is up to you. Some people prefer to remove them, while others like to keep them on for presentation purposes.

BASE – We use a concentrated bouillon base for most of our recipes instead of broth or stock. It’s convenient, takes up a lot less space, and is easily reconstituted with water. You can certainly use broth or stock instead.

How to Make Instant Pot Jambalaya

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. In a bowl, season the shrimp with garlic salt and lemon pepper.
2. Add olive oil to the instant pot and turn to the saute function.
3. Brown sausage on both sides, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add shrimp to pot and cook on both sides, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from pot.
5. Add garlic, green pepper, celery, and onion and cook for 2-3 minutes or until beginning to get tender.
6. Sprinkle in dried thyme leaves, oregano, cajun seasoning, and chicken base. Sir to combine.
7. Add in tomatoes, rice, and water. Stir to combine.
8. Close lid and turn vent to the closed position. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Do a 5 minute natural release, then open vent to quick release any remaining pressure.
9. Add sausage and shrimp back in and stir.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Store cooled leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.

If you don’t have an instant pot, you can easily make jambalaya on the stovetop with all the same comforting flavors and ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your instant pot jambalaya with cornbread, cornbread muffins, homemade biscuits, or a crisp green salad on the side. Optionally garnish with sliced green onions or chives. Enjoy!

More Cajun Recipes

• Cajun Rice
• Crawfish Etouffee
• Cajun Red Beans and Rice
• Jambalaya – on the stovetop!

I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!