Introduction
Hey there, fellow food lovers! Ready to transform simple ingredients into a sensational, comforting Shrimp Creole that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? This recipe is all about easy, delicious flavors that the whole family will adore. Forget complicated techniques – we’re keeping it simple and fun!
Why This Works
This Shrimp Creole recipe works because it’s a perfect balance of savory and spicy, with a rich tomato base that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s also super adaptable – feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking! Plus, it’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but craving something special.
Key Ingredients
- 🍤 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 🍅 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🫑 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌶️ 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste!)
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 🌿 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 🧂 Salt and black pepper to taste
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 🍚 Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally!
2️⃣ Add the minced garlic and cayenne pepper, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3️⃣ Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4️⃣ Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t overcook them or they’ll get tough!
5️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
6️⃣ Serve your delicious Shrimp Creole over a bed of fluffy rice. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For even easier cleanup, use a non-stick skillet.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley will work in a pinch (use about 1/2 teaspoon).
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some people prefer a spicier Creole, so feel free to add more cayenne!
Heat Control
Medium heat is key here! Low heat will take too long to cook the vegetables and shrimp, while high heat will burn the garlic and make the sauce too thick. Keep an eye on the temperature and adjust as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe is mainly about a rich and flavorful sauce, you can add a little crunch by topping it with some chopped green onions or toasted croutons before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce along with the shrimp.
- If you want a smoother sauce, blend a portion of the cooked sauce with an immersion blender before adding the shrimp.
- To make it ahead, prepare the sauce without the shrimp up to a day in advance. Add the shrimp just before serving.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Shrimp Creole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s even tastier the next day!
Gift Packaging Ideas
This Shrimp Creole makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a pretty jar or container and add a handwritten recipe card. You can also include a small bag of rice for serving.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Shrimp Creole: Increase the cayenne pepper to your liking, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
🌟 Creamy Shrimp Creole: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
🌟 Lemon Shrimp Creole: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end for a bright, citrusy twist.
🌟 Cheesy Shrimp Creole: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top before serving.
Troubleshooting
- Shrimp is overcooked: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Avoid this by not overcrowding the pan and cooking them only until pink and opaque.
- Sauce is too thick: Add a little water or broth to thin it out.
- Sauce is too spicy: Add a dollop of sour cream, plain yogurt, or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the heat.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I substitute other vegetables? Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or zucchini.
- What kind of rice is best? Long-grain white rice is a classic pairing, but you can use any rice you prefer.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? While not ideal for shrimp, you could adapt this by cooking the vegetables and sauce in a slow cooker, then adding shrimp at the end.
Conclusion
There you have it – a simple, delicious, and family-friendly Shrimp Creole that’s sure to become a new favorite! We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media! Happy cooking!
Shrimp Creole: A Family Favorite
A flavorful and spicy shrimp dish cooked in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery, and sautu00e9 until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Creole seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the shrimp creole over cooked white rice and garnish with sliced green onions.
Tips
- For extra flavor, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to deepen the taste.
- Adjust the level of hot sauce to your preferred spice level.