Louisiana Shrimp Creole is a tasty dish that brings the flavors of the South to your table. It features juicy shrimp swimming in a spicy tomato sauce, packed with bell peppers, onions, and spices.
This dish is like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it over fluffy rice, which helps soak up all that amazing sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are ideal, but you can use frozen ones too. Just make sure to thaw them first. If you’re allergic to shrimp, try diced chicken or tofu for a different twist.
Vegetables: The mix of onion, bell pepper, and celery creates a classic flavor combo. If you don’t have green bell peppers, red, yellow, or even Anaheim peppers can work. No celery? Just add a bit more onion, and you’re good.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide excellent flavor without the fuss. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use those—just peel and chop them before adding. For a bit of sweetness, you can add a pinch more sugar if desired.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for a lighter option. Seafood broth can also enhance the shrimp’s flavor!
Spices: The spices in this dish make it pop! If cayenne is too spicy, use smoked paprika for a milder kick. Herbs like basil or parsley can also lend a fresh touch.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to a delightful dish. Overcooked shrimp can get rubbery, so watch closely!
- When you add shrimp, cook them for just 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- They should curl slightly when cooked. If they’re still gray, give them a bit more time.
- Remove the pan from heat as soon as they’re done—carryover heat will continue to cook them a bit.
These steps will help keep your shrimp tender and juicy—perfect for that rich sauce!
How to Make Louisiana Shrimp Creole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth or seafood stock
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Hot cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Louisiana Shrimp Creole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy and quick dish to whip up for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy meal with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and translucent. This will create a lovely base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Mix:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 minute until fragrant. The aroma will be amazing!
3. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (and their juice), tomato paste, and your chosen broth. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Season the Sauce:
Flavor the sauce by adding sugar (if using), paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. If you like a little extra depth, add Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it work its magic!
5. Simmer and Thicken:
Let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. Give it a stir now and then and watch as it thickens slightly—this is when the flavors really come together!
6. Add the Shrimp:
Remove the bay leaf and add the shrimp to the sauce. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and just cooked through. Be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
7. Finish and Adjust:
Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt or more cayenne pepper if desired. Taste it to make sure it’s just right!
8. Serve Hot:
Finally, serve the shrimp creole hot, ladling it over bowls of fluffy steamed white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your delicious Louisiana Shrimp Creole, bursting with flavor and guaranteed to warm your heart!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp creole on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also serve with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick!
What Can I Serve with Louisiana Shrimp Creole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, but you can also serve it over rice noodles or with crusty French bread to soak up the rich sauce. A side salad or some sautéed greens complement it nicely too!