If you crave a vibrant dish that bursts with bold flavors and heartwarming Southern charm, this Shrimp Creole Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. Combining tender shrimp with a rich, tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic vegetables and spices, it’s a dance of textures and tastes that embody the spirit of Creole cooking. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of zest, heat, and freshness, making it a beloved classic that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re new to Creole dishes or a seasoned fan, this recipe promises to become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this delicious Shrimp Creole Recipe. Each element brings something special — from the sweetness of bell peppers and celery to the tanginess of diced tomatoes and the subtle heat of cayenne pepper.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, adding a smooth, fruity base.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Provides color and a mild crunch that complements the shrimp.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Brings earthiness and crunch, essential for the classic Creole “holy trinity.”
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with pungency and warmth.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: The juicy base for the vibrant sauce.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup chicken or seafood broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami and adds complexity.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Tabasco): Gives the dish that signature spicy kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that rounds out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For anyone who loves extra heat in their Shrimp Creole Recipe.
- 2 bay leaves: Give a lovely background aroma while simmering.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshness that brightens the final dish.
- Cooked white rice for serving: The perfect bed to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make Shrimp Creole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Holy Trinity
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery — these vegetables form the classic Creole “holy trinity,” which is key to the dish’s vibrant flavor. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant, creating a fantastic aromatic foundation.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Build Flavors
Once the veggies are softened, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute to release its wonderful aroma without letting it brown. This step is crucial because it layers the dish with a subtle pungency that awakens the tongue.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Sprinkle in paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper if you’re using it, and toss in the bay leaves. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken, concentrate in flavor, and become irresistibly rich.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the simmering sauce and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they’re pink, plump, and perfectly cooked through. Avoid overcooking — shrimp should be tender and juicy here. Once cooked, remove the bay leaves and discard them to keep the flavors delicate and balanced.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This burst of herbal freshness elevates the dish and adds a lovely green pop of color. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — perhaps a touch more salt or hot sauce if you prefer a bit more punch.
How to Serve Shrimp Creole Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish is delightful on its own, fresh garnishes can take it to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped green onions or additional fresh parsley adds vibrancy, while lemon wedges on the side offer a zesty contrast that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Traditionally, Shrimp Creole Recipe is served over perfectly steamed white rice, which soaks up all that tangy, spicy sauce. You can also pair it with crusty French bread to mop up every last bit, or a simple green salad for balance and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, try serving Shrimp Creole over creamy grits or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. For a stunning presentation, spoon it into individual ramekins topped with a sprig of parsley or serve family-style in a vibrant shallow bowl to bring that communal Creole spirit to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this flavorful Shrimp Creole Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to deepen in flavor overnight, making your next meal just as enjoyable.
Freezing
This dish also freezes well. Transfer cooled Shrimp Creole to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Keep in mind, shrimp can sometimes soften a bit after freezing, so it’s best to eat within that time frame for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat Shrimp Creole in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Creole Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting the sauce. Frozen shrimp make this dish convenient without sacrificing flavor.
Is Shrimp Creole Recipe very spicy?
It has a gentle heat that comes from hot sauce and optional cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. Feel free to add more hot sauce for a fiery kick or omit the cayenne for a milder dish.
Can I substitute the vegetables used?
The combination of onion, bell pepper, and celery is traditional and gives that signature Creole flavor, but you can experiment with swapping green bell pepper for red or yellow to add sweetness or a different color to your plate.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Shrimp Creole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and hot sauce. It’s a great option if you’re avoiding gluten but still want bold, hearty flavors.
What can I use instead of white rice?
For a different texture or to suit dietary needs, try serving the sauce over brown rice, cauliflower rice, or creamy grits. Each provides a unique twist while complementing the rich flavors wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Shrimp Creole Recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to the table. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you create a dish bursting with soulful flavors and festive colors. I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in and make this classic Southern delight your own — it’s guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your home, just like it is in mine.
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Shrimp Creole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This authentic Shrimp Creole recipe features succulent shrimp simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce with aromatic vegetables and spices. Inspired by traditional Creole cuisine, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish served over fluffy white rice, perfect for a comforting main course that balances a touch of spice with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Tabasco)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 2 bay leaves
To Serve
- Cooked white rice
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release the garlic’s aroma without burning it.
- Create Sauce Base: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and add the tomato paste, chicken or seafood broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper if using, and bay leaves. Stir all ingredients well to combine evenly.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly, coaxing rich flavors to develop.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the simmering sauce. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, ensuring tenderness without overcooking.
- Finish and Season: Remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and taste the sauce to adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or hot sauce if desired.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp creole hot, spooned over a bed of cooked white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- For a deeper, richer flavor, allow the sauce to simmer longer before adding the shrimp.
- You can substitute green bell pepper with red or yellow bell peppers for a different color and slight sweetness.
- Adjust hot sauce amount to your preferred spice level if you like your dish extra spicy.
