With Mardi Gras coming up, there’s no better time to make a big, cozy pot of jambalaya. Ina Garten recently shared her take on this classic dish on Instagram, and the best part? It all comes together in one pot, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy, satisfying dinner, this recipe has everything—spicy sausage, juicy shrimp, tender chicken thighs and plenty of veggies—all cooked together for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a nourishing option to help you stay fuller longer.
The secret to a rich, flavorful jambalaya is building layers of taste. Garten starts by browning the sausage to release its smoky spice, then searing the chicken thighs until golden and juicy. Once those are done, the rest is easy. A mix of onions, bell peppers and celery creates a flavorful base, while tomatoes, jalapeños and spices add the perfect kick. Deglazing the pot with white wine is a crucial step—Ina says it’s “key to really great flavor!” It lifts all those caramelized bits from the bottom, infusing the dish with incredible taste.
Once everything is simmering together, add in your chicken stock and the rice, which will soak up all of that savory flavor, making every bite deeply satisfying. The shrimp goes in at the end to keep it tender and juicy, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, scallions, and a squeeze of lemon brightens up the whole dish. That’s it—no extra pots, no complicated steps, just a rich, flavorful jambalaya with minimal fuss. You can find the full recipe on Barefoot Contessa, where Ina shares all the details to make this dish foolproof.
For the full Mardi Gras experience, pair it with classics like a New Orleans Hurricane and a pan of Creole Skillet Cornbread, then finish the meal off with a sweet treat like our Air-Fryer Beignets. And if you’re making a big spread for friends, a recipe like our Air-Fryer Shrimp Po’Boys with Rémoulade Slaw should be on your radar, too. It’s the perfect way to round out your celebration with flavors that are as festive as they are delicious. For an Ina-centric twist, you could also serve this jambalaya up with a Rosemary-Ginger French 75—one of Garten’s favorite cocktails—and start the meal with a fun appetizer like her Baked Fontina.
What makes jambalaya so special is how easily it brings people together. It’s a dish meant for sharing—warm, comforting and packed with bold Louisiana flavors. Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras with friends or just need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this one-pot jambalaya is the way to go. The hands-off cooking process gives you time to enjoy the party (or just relax), and the final result is sure to impress.
So, grab your biggest pot and get cooking—this simple, no-stress jambalaya is the perfect way to bring a little festive spirit to your table.
