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Shrimp Creole

Shrimp Creole is a vibrant, spicy stew featuring succulent shrimp simmered in a smoky tomato base with peppers and a blend of spices. The dish offers layers of flavor with a comforting yet lively texture, finished with a hint of heat and tang. Its colorful appearance and bold aroma make it a perfect, hearty meal with a signature Southern Creole flair.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Creole, Louisiana
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes crushed by hand if diced
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 large yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to spice preference
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce for finishing
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and starts to gently crackle.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. They should be translucent with a slight char around the edges.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and the paprika releases its smoky aroma.
  4. Add the crushed canned tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently on low heat, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns a vibrant red, bubbling gently around the edges.
  5. Season the sauce with cayenne pepper and a splash of hot sauce. Taste and adjust the spice levels to your liking, ensuring the sauce is smoky, tangy, and just a little spicy.
  6. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink, firm, and opaque.
  7. Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle the dish with a little more hot sauce if desired, and give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors.
  8. Serve the Shrimp Creole hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley if you like. Enjoy this vibrant, smoky stew with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.