Why You’ll Love This Cajun Style Shrimp Creole
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
- Bursting with Flavor: A medley of spices and fresh ingredients.
- Quick & Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Healthy & Satisfying: A hearty dish packed with protein and vegetables.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan (for rice, if serving)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Homemade Cajun Style Shrimp Creole
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Dive into the vibrant and bold flavors of the South with this Homemade Cajun Style Shrimp Creole! This classic Louisiana dish is brimming with succulent shrimp, a rich tomato-based sauce, and the perfect kick of Cajun spices. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the shrimp creole over cooked white rice or with crusty bread.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.
Notes
- Fresh Shrimp is Key: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the sauce (without shrimp) for up to 3 months. Add fresh shrimp when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, but add them at the very end and cook just until heated through to prevent overcooking.
Q2: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: Replace shrimp with diced zucchini, mushrooms, or tofu and use vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative.
Q3: What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole seasoning?
A: Both are flavorful blends, but Cajun seasoning tends to be spicier, while Creole seasoning includes more herbs like oregano and basil.
Conclusion: A Taste of Louisiana at Home!
This Homemade Cajun Style Shrimp Creole is an irresistible blend of bold spices, juicy shrimp, and rich tomato goodness. Whether you’re new to Cajun cooking or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to be a hit. Serve it up and let the flavors transport you straight to Louisiana!
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and feedback—we’d love to hear from you!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 8g
Enjoy every flavorful bite of this classic Creole dish!
