Bj’s Jambalaya Recipe

Craving that bold, soulful flavor from BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse? This BJ’s jambalaya recipe brings the authentic taste of New Orleans straight to your kitchen.

Packed with succulent shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and perfectly seasoned jasmine rice, this BJ’s New Orleans jambalaya delivers layers of Cajun-Creole flavor in every spoonful.

Whether you’re a jambalaya veteran or trying this Louisiana classic for the first time, this BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya copycat captures that restaurant magic with simple techniques and accessible ingredients.

Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleasing one-pot wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

What Does BJ’s Jambalaya Taste Like?

BJ’s jambalaya offers a harmonious blend of smoky, savory, and subtly spicy flavors that dance across your palate. The Cajun andouille sausage provides a deep, smoky richness while the shrimp adds delicate sweetness and tender texture.

Aromatic vegetables the holy trinity of onion, celery, and bell pepper create an earthy foundation, while Cajun and Creole seasonings bring warmth without overwhelming heat.

The jasmine rice absorbs all these complex flavors, becoming infused with tomato brightness and herbaceous notes from thyme, basil, and oregano. Each bite delivers that signature New Orleans jambalaya BJ’s experience: hearty, comforting, and satisfyingly complex.

Bj’s Jambalaya Recipe Ingredients and Kitchen Utensils

Ingredients:

Proteins & Grains:

• 1 lb large shrimp (cleaned and deveined)
• 1 package Cajun andouille sausage, sliced
• 1½ cups long grain jasmine rice (rinsed)

Vegetables:

• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Liquids:

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Kitchen Utensils:

• Large heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven with lid
• Mixing bowl for seasoning shrimp
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine-mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings

Bj’s Jambalaya Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the cleaned and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all shrimp are evenly coated. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and slightly crispy on both sides. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Holy Trinity

In the same pan with the remaining sausage drippings, add diced onions, chopped green bell peppers, and sliced celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become tender. The onions should turn translucent and the vegetables should develop a slight caramelization.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Add minced garlic to the vegetables and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step removes the raw metallic taste and deepens the tomato flavor, creating a rich foundation for your jambalaya BJ’s style.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to break down slightly. Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, oregano, basil, thyme, black pepper, bay leaves, and paprika. Stir well to combine all the seasonings with the vegetable mixture.

Step 6: Incorporate Broth and Sausage

Pour in the 3 cups of chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 7: Cook the Rice

Once simmering, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Stir the rinsed rice into the pot, distributing it evenly throughout the liquid. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to medium.

Let cook undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the seasoned broth and begin softening.

Step 8: Add Shrimp and Finish

After 10 minutes, add the seasoned shrimp to the pot, gently stirring them into the rice mixture. Cover again and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the rice is fully tender. Check the texture if you prefer drier BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya, remove the lid for the last 3-4 minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Protein Variations

While this BJ’s jambalaya recipe features shrimp and sausage, you can easily customize the proteins. Add diced chicken thighs for a heartier version, or incorporate crawfish tails for authentic Louisiana flair. For a seafood-forward approach, include scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi. Vegetarians can substitute the proteins with plant-based sausage and chickpeas, maintaining that smoky depth while keeping it meat-free.

2. Heat Level Adjustments

Adjust the spice level to match your preference. For milder jambalaya BJ’s style, reduce the Cajun and Creole seasonings by half and omit the black pepper. If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños with the holy trinity vegetables, include cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend, or finish with hot sauce like Tabasco or Crystal. A dash of Louisiana hot sauce stirred in just before serving adds authentic tang and kick.

3. Classic Southern Sides

Pair your New Orleans jambalaya BJ’s creation with traditional Southern accompaniments. Cornbread with honey butter offers sweet contrast to the savory jambalaya. Collard greens or sautéed okra add nutritious vegetables that complement the Creole flavors. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with vinegar dressing provides refreshing crunch, while coleslaw adds creamy coolness that balances the spices beautifully.

4. Rice Alternatives

Though jasmine rice is traditional in this BJ’s jambalaya, experiment with different grains. Brown rice adds nutty flavor and extra fiber (though it requires longer cooking time and additional liquid). Cauliflower rice creates a low-carb version perfect for keto diets. For a unique twist, try forbidden black rice for dramatic presentation, or use quinoa for added protein and a slightly different texture profile.

5. Beverage Pairings

Since this is a BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya recreation, consider beer pairings that complement the bold flavors. A crisp lager or pilsner cuts through the richness, while an amber ale or brown ale matches the dish’s depth. For wine lovers, off-dry Riesling balances the spice beautifully, and light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir work surprisingly well. Non-alcoholic options include sweet tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with lime.

6. Garnish and Finishing Touches

Elevate presentation and flavor with thoughtful garnishes. Fresh chopped parsley or green onions add bright color and fresh herbal notes. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors right before serving. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for individual customization. For restaurant-style presentation, top with extra cooked shrimp and a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.

7. Make It a Feast

Transform this BJ’s jambalaya recipe into a complete New Orleans-themed dinner party. Start with crawfish dip or shrimp remoulade as appetizers. Serve the jambalaya as the main course alongside hush puppies and dirty rice. Finish with classic beignets or bread pudding with bourbon sauce for dessert. This Southern feast brings authentic Louisiana hospitality to your dining table and creates memorable meals for family and friends.

Essential Tips for Perfect BJ’s Jambalaya

1. Rice Rinsing is Non-Negotiable

Always rinse your jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear before adding it to your BJ’s jambalaya. This critical step removes excess surface starch that can make your jambalaya gummy and sticky rather than fluffy with distinct grains. Rinsing also helps the rice absorb the seasoned broth more evenly, resulting in better flavor distribution throughout every grain. Skip this step and you risk ending up with mushy, clumped rice instead of the perfectly textured jambalaya BJ’s restaurant version you’re aiming for.

2. Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste Cooking Step

When you add tomato paste to your New Orleans jambalaya BJ’s recipe, cook it for the full 1-2 minutes before adding other ingredients. This technique, called “blooming,” caramelizes the sugars in the tomato paste and eliminates the raw, metallic taste that can overpower your dish. The paste should darken slightly and become fragrant, developing a deeper, sweeter tomato flavor that forms the backbone of your jambalaya’s complex taste profile. This small step makes a tremendous difference in the final dish’s depth and richness.

3. Quality Andouille Makes All the Difference

The andouille sausage is a star ingredient in BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya, so invest in authentic Cajun andouille if possible. Look for brands like Savoie’s, Richard’s, or Jacob’s these contain the proper spice blend and have the ideal firm, smoky texture. Avoid generic smoked sausage or kielbasa, which lack the distinctive peppery heat and deep smoke flavor that defines true jambalaya. If you can’t find authentic andouille, Spanish chorizo makes a better substitute than regular smoked sausage, bringing comparable spice and smokiness to your dish.

4. Master the Liquid-to-Rice Ratio

For this BJ’s jambalaya recipe, the 3 cups broth to 1½ cups rice ratio creates perfectly cooked grains, but variables like pan size and heat level affect absorption. If your jambalaya seems too wet after the rice cooking time, remove the lid and let excess moisture evaporate over medium heat for a few minutes. Conversely, if the rice isn’t tender and liquid has absorbed too quickly, add ¼ cup warm broth at a time, cover, and continue cooking. Understanding your cookware’s heat distribution helps you adjust and achieve consistent results every time.

5. Temperature Control Prevents Burning

Jambalaya is a one-pot wonder, but that means the bottom layer is vulnerable to scorching, especially once the rice is added. After bringing your jambalaya BJ’s mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to medium or medium-low to maintain gentle bubbling rather than aggressive boiling. A heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven distributes heat more evenly and prevents hot spots that burn rice. If you notice sticking, don’t stir too frequentlythis breaks rice grains but do ensure your heat isn’t too high. A slight crust (fond) on the bottom is traditional and adds flavor, but burnt rice ruins the entire dish.

6. Shrimp Timing is Critical

Add shrimp during the final 10 minutes of cooking, not earlier, to prevent rubbery, overcooked seafood. Shrimp cook quickly they’re done when they turn pink and curl into a C-shape. Overcooked shrimp become tough and chewy, diminishing the quality of your BJ’s New Orleans jambalaya. If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them in the last 3-4 minutes just to heat through. For even cooking, try to nestle shrimp into the rice mixture rather than leaving them on top, ensuring they’re surrounded by heat and moisture for tender, flavorful results.

7. Let It Rest Before Serving

Once your BJ’s jambalaya is finished cooking, resist the temptation to serve immediately. Remove from heat, keep the lid on, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming, the flavors to meld together harmoniously, and any remaining liquid to be absorbed evenly. The texture improves significantly during this time, with the rice firming up slightly and separating into distinct grains. After resting, fluff gently with a fork, remove bay leaves, and serve. This final step transforms good jambalaya into restaurant-quality BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya that rivals the original.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover BJ’s jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, or warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating throughout.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions that people often ask.

Q: Can I make BJ’s jambalaya in advance?

A: Yes! BJ’s jambalaya recipe actually develops deeper flavors when made a day ahead. Prepare the dish completely, let it cool, then refrigerate. The seasonings meld beautifully overnight. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to refresh the moisture before serving.

Q: What’s the difference between Creole and Cajun jambalaya?

A: New Orleans jambalaya BJ’s style is Creole jambalaya, which includes tomatoes and has a reddish color. Cajun jambalaya omits tomatoes, resulting in a brown color from caramelized meat and vegetables. BJ’s version follows the Creole tradition with diced tomatoes and tomato paste for that characteristic tangy depth.

Q: Can I freeze jambalaya?

A: Yes, though rice texture may change slightly. Freeze jambalaya BJ’s style in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. The shrimp may become slightly firmer after freezing, but the overall dish remains delicious and convenient for meal prep.

Q: Why is my jambalaya mushy?

A: Mushy BJ’s jambalaya typically results from not rinsing the rice, using too much liquid, or stirring too frequently during cooking. Always rinse rice until water runs clear, measure liquid accurately, and resist stirring once the rice is added. Let it cook undisturbed with the lid on.

Q: Can I use a different type of rice?

A: Long grain rice works best for this BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya because it stays fluffy and separate. Jasmine rice adds subtle floral notes, but regular long grain white rice works perfectly. Avoid short or medium grain rice, which becomes sticky. If using brown rice, increase cooking time to 40-45 minutes and add an extra cup of broth.

Q: How spicy is this jambalaya?

A: This BJ’s jambalaya recipe has moderate, family-friendly heat that adds warmth without overwhelming spice. The Cajun and Creole seasonings provide flavor complexity rather than intense burn. For milder versions, reduce seasonings by half. For spicier jambalaya, add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to taste.

Q: What can I substitute for andouille sausage?

A: If authentic andouille isn’t available for your New Orleans jambalaya BJ’s recreation, try Spanish chorizo, hot Italian sausage, or kielbasa. Each offers different flavor profiles chorizo brings paprika smokiness, Italian sausage adds fennel notes, and kielbasa provides mild smoke. Add extra Cajun seasoning to compensate for milder sausages.

Q: Do I have to use fresh shrimp?

A: Fresh or previously frozen shrimp both work excellently in BJ’s jambalaya. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp unless adding in the final 3 minutes, as they’ll overcook and become rubbery if added too early in the cooking process.

This BJ’s jambalaya recipe brings the bold, comforting flavors of New Orleans right to your home kitchen with surprising ease. By following these techniques from properly seasoning your proteins to mastering the rice-to-liquid ratio you’ll create BJ’s brewhouse jambalaya that rivals the restaurant original.

The beauty of this one-pot wonder lies in its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal, making it perfect for casual weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Now that you’ve mastered this New Orleans jambalaya BJ’s style, experiment with the customization ideas to make it your own signature dish. Grab your pot and get cooking!

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