10+ Bold & Flavorful Instant Pot Gumbo Recipes

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When you crave something hearty, when you seek bold flavors, when you want to impress with ease, Instant Pot gumbo recipes have you covered. These dishes offer a comforting blend of spices and ingredients that capture the spirit of Louisiana. Each recipe promises a unique twist, whether you lean towards classic meats or vibrant veggies. So, what will you choose to savor first? The options are as diverse as they are delicious.

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Key Takeaways

Explore classic gumbo varieties like Chicken and Sausage or Cajun Chicken and Shrimp, highlighting their rich flavors and use of roux.
Discover seafood options, including Shrimp and Crab Gumbo and Seafood Lovers' Gumbo, perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
Try vegetarian alternatives like Vegetarian Gumbo Delight, packed with nutritious vegetables and a warm, inviting aroma.
Enjoy unique and spicy variations such as Spicy Andouille Sausage Gumbo and Smoked Sausage and Bean Gumbo for bold flavor.
Utilize the Instant Pot for quick preparation, allowing layers of flavor to develop while minimizing cooking time.

Classic Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Gumbo is a flavorful dish that originates from Louisiana, combining influences from French, African, and Native American cuisines. This Classic Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is a perfect introduction to this delicious dish, showcasing a rich blend of spices, proteins, and vegetables. The Instant Pot makes it easy to create this hearty meal with minimal fuss, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.

The key to a great gumbo lies in its roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat that thickens the dish and adds depth to its flavor. In this recipe, we'll use the Instant Pot to achieve a perfectly browned roux, followed by the addition of chicken, sausage, and the holy trinity of Cajun cooking: bell peppers, onions, and celery. Serve it over rice, and you'll have a comforting meal that's sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
6 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked white rice, for serving
Chopped green onions and parsley, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously until the roux turns a deep brown color, about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
Once the roux is ready, add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the sliced sausage and chicken, mixing well to coat with the roux.
Pour in the chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes, and bay leaves. Stir to combine, then close the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a few tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the gumbo before serving.

If you prefer a thicker gumbo, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot before the final simmer. Additionally, feel free to customize the proteins by adding shrimp or crab for a seafood variation.

Shrimp and Crab Gumbo

Shrimp and Crab Gumbo is a delightful twist on the classic Cajun dish, bringing together the rich flavors of the sea with a medley of aromatic vegetables and spices. This hearty stew is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

With the Instant Pot, you can prepare this savory gumbo in a fraction of the time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the shrimp tender and the crab succulent.

The key to a great Shrimp and Crab Gumbo lies in the roux, which is the base for this dish. Traditionally made by cooking flour and oil until dark and fragrant, the Instant Pot allows you to speed up this process while still achieving that deep, nutty flavor.

Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Southern cuisine.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound crab meat, lump or claw
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked white rice (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and heat the vegetable oil. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a deep brown color, about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to burn it, as this will affect the flavor of your gumbo.

2. Once the roux is ready, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Then, stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.

3. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. Open the lid and add the shrimp and crab meat. Stir gently to combine and let it sit for a few minutes until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, you can add smoked sausage or andouille sausage to your gumbo.

If you prefer a thicker gumbo, allow it to simmer on the sauté setting for a few extra minutes after adding the seafood. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like okra or bell peppers to customize your gumbo.

Serve it over a bowl of fluffy white rice and garnish with green onions and parsley for the perfect finish!

Vegetarian Gumbo Delight

This recipe brings together a colorful medley of ingredients that not only enhance the flavor but also provide essential nutrients. The use of okra, bell peppers, and tomatoes adds depth and texture, while the blend of spices creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this gumbo is a delightful twist on a beloved classic.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, and once it's hot, toss in the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the sliced okra, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine well.

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the timer goes off, allow a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

Remove the bay leaf before serving the gumbo over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your flavorful Vegetarian Gumbo Delight!

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce during cooking.

If you prefer a thicker gumbo, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it in after cooking to thicken the sauce.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, as they can add an extra layer of flavor to your gumbo.

Spicy Andouille Sausage Gumbo

Gumbo is a classic dish from Louisiana that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the South. Known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, gumbo is a versatile dish that can include a variety of proteins and vegetables. This Spicy Andouille Sausage Gumbo recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals. The combination of smoky andouille sausage, aromatic vegetables, and a rich roux creates a comforting and satisfying dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Cooking gumbo in an Instant Pot makes the process quicker and easier without sacrificing flavor. The pressure cooker method helps to meld the flavors beautifully while reducing the cooking time considerably. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious pot of gumbo ready in no time. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of New Orleans right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound chicken thighs, diced
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked white rice (for serving)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

To start, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking it until it turns a deep brown color, about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning.

Once your roux is ready, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened, then add the sliced andouille sausage and diced chicken. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the meat to brown slightly.

Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to high pressure, and cook for 15 minutes.

Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure. Remove the bay leaf before serving the gumbo over a bed of cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider adding some okra or shrimp to your gumbo. You can also customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding hot sauce to taste.

Remember to let the gumbo sit for a few minutes after cooking; it will thicken up nicely as it cools slightly. Enjoy your homemade gumbo with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal!

Seafood Lovers' Gumbo

Seafood Lovers' Gumbo is a delightful dish that captures the essence of the coastal flavors of the South. This hearty stew combines a variety of seafood, including shrimp, crab, and fish, simmered in a rich and flavorful broth. The addition of the classic Cajun trinity—onions, bell peppers, and celery—along with spices and herbs, makes this dish a true comfort food that's perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Cooking gumbo in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors by allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully. The pressure cooking method helps to develop a rich broth in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. Gather your ingredients, and let's make a Seafood Lovers' Gumbo that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound crab meat (or crab legs)
1 pound white fish fillets, cut into chunks
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 cup celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon bay leaves
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice, for serving
Green onions and parsley, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil, followed by the diced onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaves. Next, pour in the seafood stock and add the drained diced tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" for 5 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully release the pressure. Open the lid and add the shrimp, crab meat, and fish chunks to the pot. Allow the residual heat to cook the seafood for about 5-7 minutes until it's opaque and cooked through.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the gumbo over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

Extra Tips:

To elevate the flavor of your Seafood Lovers' Gumbo, consider making your own seafood stock with shrimp shells and fish bones. This will add a depth of flavor that store-bought stock may lack.

Additionally, feel free to customize the seafood according to your preferences or what's available; scallops, mussels, or even clams can be great additions. When serving, a splash of hot sauce can also enhance the dish's flavor for those who enjoy a little extra heat!

Creole-Style Gumbo With Okra

Creole-style gumbo with okra is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine. This hearty stew is packed with a medley of ingredients, including succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and tender okra, all simmered together to create a rich and savory broth. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can adjust the spices and proteins to suit your taste, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Cooking gumbo in the Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also enhances the flavors by allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully. The key to a great gumbo is the roux, which adds depth and thickness to the stew. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve a perfect roux without constant stirring, making this recipe a breeze for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients:

1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup okra, sliced
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving
Green onions for garnish

To prepare the gumbo, start by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" mode. Add the vegetable oil and flour to the pot, stirring continuously until the mixture turns a deep brown color, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. This is your roux.

Once the roux is ready, add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic, sautéing them for another 3-4 minutes until they're softened. Next, stir in the sausage, followed by the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, okra, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper.

Once all ingredients are combined, close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to "Manual" mode for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.

Finally, add the shrimp to the pot and stir gently, allowing them to cook in the residual heat for about 5 minutes until they're pink and cooked through. Serve the gumbo over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Extra Tips: When making gumbo, feel free to customize the proteins and vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.

For a thicker gumbo, let it simmer for a bit longer after releasing the pressure. Remember, the flavors deepen and improve the longer the gumbo sits, so consider making it a day ahead for an even more delicious meal!

Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo

Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. This comforting stew is perfect for gatherings or family dinners and is sure to impress with its layers of flavor.

The combination of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a variety of spices creates a mouthwatering experience that will transport you straight to the bayou.

Making gumbo in an Instant Pot isn't only quick but also simplifies the cooking process without sacrificing flavor. The pressure cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. With a few simple steps, you can have a delicious bowl of Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo ready to enjoy in no time.