This Louisiana Shrimp Creole is a warm and flavorful dish full of shrimp, tomatoes, and spices. It’s perfect over a bed of rice, making it a cozy meal for any day!
I love how it brings a taste of the bayou right to my kitchen! Plus, it’s great for impressing friends or just treating myself to a tasty dinner. Who knew cooking could be this easy and fun? 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh raw shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp works too. Just thaw them in cold water before cooking. If you’re not into shrimp, consider using chicken or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Creole Seasoning: This blend gives the dish its authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, make a quick substitute using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust to your spice preference!
Diced Tomatoes: I love using canned tomatoes for their convenience. You can also use fresh tomatoes—just chop them up and remove the seeds. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, choose no-salt-added canned tomatoes.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If you don’t have it, cilantro or green onions can add a nice touch too!
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep them juicy and tender:
- Cook the shrimp quickly. They only need 3-5 minutes in the sauce until they turn pink and opaque.
- Avoid overcooking—overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery. As soon as they change color, they are ready!
- If your shrimp is large, you might need an extra minute. Just keep an eye on them!
By following these tips, you’ll end up with delicious shrimp in your Creole that are perfect every time!
Louisiana Shrimp Creole
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- French bread or crusty bread (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful Louisiana Shrimp Creole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So overall, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery, and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to soften up and become fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Mix in the Sauces and Spices:
Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat), Worcestershire sauce, and salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Simmer the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken slightly and for all those flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp into the sauce, making sure to stir them in so they are well coated. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them!
6. Finish Up:
Stir in the chopped parsley, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want all those flavors to shine!
7. Serve It Up:
Serve the Shrimp Creole hot over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice. Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color.
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
If you’d like, toss on some lemon wedges and serve with warm crusty French bread for dipping. Enjoy this classic dish that brings a taste of Louisiana to your table!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes or by leaving them in the fridge overnight.
What Can I Substitute for Creole Seasoning?
If you don’t have Creole seasoning, you can make a quick substitute using equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the spices to fit your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Shrimp Creole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. Adjust according to your spice preference for the perfect kick!
