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Shrimp Creole

Shrimp Creole is a soulful, vibrant stew featuring tender shrimp simmered in a spicy tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and celery. The dish is cooked with aromatic spices, resulting in a hearty, colorful meal with a rich and slightly smoky flavor profile. It’s perfect served over rice, showcasing a comforting blend of Southern and Creole influences.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Creole, Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 bell pepper red or yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) canned tomatoes preferably fire-roasted, with juice
  • 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • hot sauce to taste hot sauce for brightness and heat
  • salt to taste salt
  • fresh parsley for garnish parsley chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cans for tomatoes

Method
 

  1. Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to gently bubble.
  2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant with a slight translucency.
  3. Stir in the paprika and cayenne pepper, cooking for about 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma, making the mixture fragrant and vibrant.
  4. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any flavorful bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and deepen in color.
  5. Gently stir in the shrimp, spreading them evenly in the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink, curl up, and are just cooked through.
  6. Season the dish with hot sauce and salt, tasting and adjusting the heat and saltiness until balanced and flavorful.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
  8. Serve the Shrimp Creole hot over steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful, spicy sauce.