CAROTE 21pcs Pots and Pans Set Nonstick, Cookware Set Black Granite Induction Kitchen
Buy Now →Shrimp Creole is a vibrant, comforting dish that brings the bold, rich flavors of Louisiana straight to your table. This dish features juicy shrimp simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce, seasoned with paprika, thyme, and a touch of heat, creating a well-balanced and deeply satisfying meal. Served over fluffy rice, it’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Shrimp Creole recipe is easy, authentic, and packed with Southern charm!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions Shrimp Creole
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery (the Holy Trinity of Creole cooking) and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, bay leaf, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Let the Flavors Develop
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them!
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve the Shrimp Creole over a bed of warm, fluffy rice, and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce.
- For extra richness, stir in a small knob of butter before serving.
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor.
- For a smokier taste, add a little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole, Southern
- Diet: Gluten-Free
- Keywords: Shrimp Creole, New Orleans recipe, Creole seafood, Cajun shrimp
Equipment
Large skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
Nutrition (Per serving, approximate)
- Serving Size: 1 portion (without rice)
- Calories: 275 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 225mg
Helpful Tips for the Best Shrimp Creole
Use fresh, high-quality shrimp – Fresh shrimp provide the best texture and sweetness. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly before cooking.
Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook fast! Add them towards the end and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Make it ahead of time – The tomato sauce gets even better after sitting, so you can prepare it a day ahead and reheat before adding shrimp.
Balance the spice – Creole food is flavorful but not always spicy. Adjust the hot sauce or cayenne pepper to your preference.
Serve with fresh rice – Cooking the rice in chicken broth adds extra flavor.
Conservation & Storage Shrimp Creole
This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers!
Refrigeration:
Store leftover Shrimp Creole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze the tomato sauce (without shrimp) for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add fresh shrimp, and cook until done.
Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Substitutions & Variations Shrimp Creole
- Make it extra hearty – Add Andouille sausage for a smoky kick.
- Swap the protein – Try it with chicken, crab, or crawfish instead of shrimp.
- Use seafood stock – Instead of chicken broth for an even richer flavor.
- Add more vegetables – Red bell peppers or okra are great additions.
- Make it extra spicy – Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Storage Instructions Shrimp Creole
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze sauce without shrimp for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Shrimp Creole and Jambalaya?
Shrimp Creole is served over rice, while jambalaya is a one-pot rice dish where the rice is cooked with the ingredients.
Can I make this without shrimp?
Yes! Substitute shrimp with chicken, crab, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Is Shrimp Creole spicy?
It has a mild spice level, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce or cayenne.
Can I use canned shrimp?
Fresh or frozen shrimp is best, as canned shrimp can be too soft for this dish.
Conclusion Shrimp Creole
Shrimp Creole is a classic Southern dish that’s rich, flavorful, and packed with authentic New Orleans spice. Whether you’re a fan of Creole cuisine or just looking to try something new, this dish is easy to make, comforting, and full of bold flavors.
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! If you make it, share your photos on Pinterest or Instagram—I’d love to see your take on this Louisiana favorite!
More Creole & Cajun Recipes to Try:
🍤 Cajun Shrimp & Grits – A Southern comfort classic!
🍛 Jambalaya – A one-pot rice dish packed with spice and flavor.
🌿 Gumbo – A rich, thick stew full of seafood, sausage, and Creole spices.
Enjoy your Shrimp Creole and savor the taste of New Orleans!
Print
Shrimp Creole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Shrimp Creole is a vibrant, comforting dish that brings the bold, rich flavors of Louisiana straight to your table. This dish features juicy shrimp simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce, seasoned with paprika, thyme, and a touch of heat, creating a well-balanced and deeply satisfying meal. Served over fluffy rice, it’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery (the Holy Trinity of Creole cooking) and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, bay leaf, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them!
Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve the Shrimp Creole over a bed of warm, fluffy rice, and enjoy!
Equipment
CAROTE 21pcs Pots and Pans Set Nonstick, Cookware Set Black Granite Induction Kitchen
Buy Now →Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce.
- For extra richness, stir in a small knob of butter before serving.
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor.
- For a smokier taste, add a little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole, Southern
Keywords: Shrimp Creole, New Orleans recipe, Creole seafood, Cajun shrimp