Louisiana is known for its bold and flavorful cuisine, and one of the most beloved dishes from the Deep South is Shrimp Creole. This classic Creole recipe combines plump shrimp with a rich tomato-based sauce, infused with the perfect blend of spices. Whether you’re a fan of New Orleans fish recipes or looking for a new way to enjoy shrimp, this dish is a must-try.
What is Shrimp Creole?
Shrimp Creole is a staple in Southern food, particularly in Louisiana. It features a sauce made with tomatoes, the “holy trinity” of Creole cooking (onions, bell peppers, and celery), and a blend of aromatic spices. Unlike gumbo or couvillion recipes, Shrimp Creole is typically served over rice without a thickening agent like roux. The dish is both comforting and full of complex flavors that reflect Louisiana’s diverse culinary heritage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Creole dinners and special occasions
- A great option if you’re wondering what to do with shrimp
- Packed with bold Creole flavors
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Creole Sauce:
- 1 ½ pounds fresh Louisiana shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning recipe blend (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth or seafood stock
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity, optional)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well and let the ingredients cook together for about 2 minutes. Add Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir everything together.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If needed, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the simmering sauce. Stir gently and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaves and taste the sauce, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Serve the Shrimp Creole hot over a bed of white rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions. Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Tips for the Best Shrimp Creole
- Use fresh Louisiana shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Let the sauce simmer long enough to develop deep flavors, but don’t overcook the shrimp.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper and hot sauce.
Conclusion
This Louisiana Shrimp Creole recipe is a delicious way to bring the flavors of the Deep South to your table. Whether you’re a fan of Creole recipes from Louisiana or just looking for a new way to enjoy seafood, this dish is a fantastic choice. Serve it with crusty French bread and a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the bold, spicy, and rich flavors of this Southern classic!
