If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish packed with zesty spices, this Shrimp Creole recipe is perfect for you! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and a savory Creole sauce. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick.

Shrimp Creole is sponsored by Duda Farm Fresh Foods.

Whether you’re new to Creole cooking or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will bring a taste of Louisiana right into your kitchen. While you are here, be sure to grab our Seafood Boil recipe! It’s equally delicious and easy to throw together!

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What is the best type of shrimp to use for Shrimp Creole?

Medium or large shrimp are ideal for Shrimp Creole. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined, with the tails removed, for convenience. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, but ensure they are thawed properly if using frozen shrimp.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Brown rice has a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, which can add a nice twist to the dish.

What if I don’t have Creole seasoning?

If you don’t have Creole seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. You can adjust the ingredients to your taste or substitute with Cajun seasoning for a slightly spicier flavor.

Can I make Shrimp Creole without hot sauce?

Yes, you can omit the hot sauce if you prefer a milder dish. The Creole seasoning will still provide plenty of flavor. If you want to keep some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper instead.

Can I add other vegetables to Shrimp Creole?

Absolutely! Common additions include diced tomatoes, okra, and green onions. You can also add a little corn or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. Adjust according to your preferences.

Can I make Shrimp Creole ahead of time?

Yes, Shrimp Creole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. However, avoid cooking the shrimp too far in advance, as it may become overcooked when reheated.

What can I serve with Shrimp Creole besides rice?

If you want to change things up, you can serve Shrimp Creole with crusty bread, cornbread, or over pasta. Some people also like it with a side of collard greens or a simple salad.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp cooks very quickly. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Be sure not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Typically, shrimp take about 3-4 minutes to cook through.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well for Shrimp Creole. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture before adding them to the skillet.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a splash of fish sauce. For a more unique flavor, try using a bit of balsamic vinegar or a mixture of red wine vinegar and sugar.

How can I make Shrimp Creole spicier?

To make your Shrimp Creole spicier, you can increase the amount of Creole seasoning, add more hot sauce, or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Be sure to taste as you go to reach the perfect spice level for you.

Can I make Shrimp Creole with other seafood?

Yes! You can swap shrimp for other seafood like scallops, crab, or even a mix of seafood. The cooking time for these will vary, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Creole

• Rice Tip: Make sure to cook your rice ahead of time, so it’s ready to soak up all the delicious Creole sauce. If you want to make it even more flavorful, try cooking your rice in broth instead of water.
• Creole Seasoning: Creole seasoning can vary by brand, so taste and adjust the amount based on your preferred level of spiciness and flavor.
• Additions: For a heartier meal, you can add other vegetables like okra. Looking for more meat? You can add some smoked sausage to the dish as well.
• Make it Spicy: Don’t be afraid to go bold with your hot sauce! Louisiana-style hot sauce, like Tabasco, brings an authentic tangy heat that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Creole Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Creole seasoning, garlic, and hot sauce creates a rich, savory sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking, and feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or entertaining guests, this Shrimp Creole is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting texture. Try it today and enjoy a taste of New Orleans right at home!

Ingredients Needed For Shrimp Creole Recipe

• 1 cup white rice
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, diced small
• 2 ribs Dandy® celery, diced small
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced small
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
• 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• Louisiana-style hot sauce (such as Tabasco), to taste
• 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
• Chopped fresh parsley, to taste

How To Make Shrimp Creole Recipe

Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking the rice according to the package directions. Set it aside and keep it warm.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Cook and stir for about 7-10 minutes, until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.

Make the Creole Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the diced tomatoes (with the juice), Creole seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. If you like your dish with a little more heat, feel free to add extra Creole seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce to taste.

Cook the Shrimp: Turn the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Stir and cook until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Serve and Garnish: To serve, spoon the shrimp and Creole sauce over a bed of warm rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and add more hot sauce if desired for extra heat.

Enjoy!

Variations For Shrimp Creole

Add Other Seafood

• Mixed Seafood Creole: Incorporate a variety of seafood like crab, crawfish, scallops, or even fish fillets (such as tilapia or catfish) along with the shrimp for a seafood medley.
• Cajun Shrimp & Fish Creole: Substitute some or all of the shrimp with firm white fish (like cod or snapper) for a heartier dish.

Use Different Proteins

• Chicken and Shrimp Creole: Add boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the dish. Dice the chicken and sauté it with the vegetables before adding the shrimp.
• Sausage Creole: Add slices of smoked sausage (like Andouille sausage) or Italian sausage for a smoky, savory flavor. The sausage can be cooked alongside the vegetables for extra depth.
• Vegetarian/Plant-Based Creole: Skip the shrimp and use a combination of vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and okra. You can also add plant-based “shrimp” or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Spice It Up!

• Spicy Creole: Increase the heat by adding more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chili flakes. You can also use a spicier Creole seasoning blend.
• Smoky Creole: For a smokier flavor, add a little smoked paprika or a small amount of chipotle in adobo sauce to the base of the dish.
• Jerk Shrimp Creole: Give your dish a Caribbean twist by marinating the shrimp in jerk seasoning before cooking and serving it with the traditional Creole sauce.

Add More Vegetables

• Okra and Corn Creole: Add sliced okra and sweet corn kernels to the mix for added texture and flavor. Okra is a classic ingredient in Creole cooking, and it thickens the sauce slightly while adding a unique taste.
• Spinach or Kale: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for an extra layer of nutrients and color.

Make it Guilt Free

• Low-Carb/Gluten-Free Creole: Serve the shrimp creole over cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free version.
• Coconut Creole: Replace the butter with coconut oil for a tropical twist. You can also use coconut milk in place of some of the tomato juice to make the sauce creamy while keeping it dairy-free.
• Whole Grain Rice or Quinoa: Swap the traditional white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even wild rice for a healthier, high-protein base.

Creamy Shrimp Creole

• Creamy Tomato Shrimp Creole: Add a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut cream to the tomato sauce to create a rich, creamy texture that balances the heat.
• Cream Cheese Shrimp Creole: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end of cooking to make the sauce velvety and smooth. You can also use sour cream for a tangy variation.

Spicy & Sweet Creole

• Pineapple Shrimp Creole: Add pineapple chunks to the dish for a sweet contrast to the spicy Creole sauce. The sweet-tart pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory and spicy shrimp.
• Mango Shrimp Creole: Similarly, diced mango can be added for a tropical, fruity sweetness that complements the heat of the Creole seasoning.

Make It a Soup

• Shrimp Creole Soup: For a heartier, soup-like version, increase the amount of tomato juice and add a bit of broth (vegetable, chicken, or seafood). You can also add a few more vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to bulk up the soup.

Shrimp Creole with Rice Variations

• Cajun Rice: Instead of plain white rice, cook the rice in chicken or vegetable broth, with a bay leaf, some Cajun seasoning, and garlic to infuse it with more flavor.
• Risotto with Shrimp Creole: Make a creamy risotto and top it with the Shrimp Creole for a rich, indulgent twist on the classic dish.

Slow Cooker Shrimp Creole

• Slow Cooker Version: For an easy, hands-off variation, cook the base of your Shrimp Creole (vegetables, seasonings, tomatoes) in a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low, then add the shrimp toward the end (about 30 minutes before serving) so they don’t overcook.

Shrimp Creole with Grits

• Shrimp and Grits Creole: Serve your Shrimp Creole over a creamy bed of Southern-style grits. The rich, cheesy grits are a perfect base to soak up the savory sauce and shrimp.

Cajun Shrimp Creole with a Tomato-based Stew

• Stew Version: Turn your Shrimp Creole into a hearty stew by adding more tomatoes and broth, and let it simmer longer to deepen the flavors. Add some potatoes or carrots for added bulk.

Why We Love Using Dandy® Celery

Andrew Duda started farming on 40 acres of land almost 100 years ago. He decided to grow celery because it’s 100% usable, which means no waste. With six generations of growers, they care about the quality of the produce they feed their families. And they want you to have the freshest, crunchiest celery on your table too.

From seed to shelf, they pay attention to using as little land as possible to give you the best celery while reducing water usage by a third. Dandy is on a mission to help more families like yours enjoy affordable produce at premium quality. They’re a family-focused company you can trust.

After almost 100 years, they still care about growing, harvesting, and shipping celery to you and your family, with care. So be sure to look for the red Dandy® label at your grocery store for this fun, easy, and nutritious snack.

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More Great Recipes Featuring Dandy® Celery

• Celery Pesto Pasta
• Celery Protein Bites
• Thai Celery Bowls
• Chicken, Rice and Celery Soup
• Celery Fennel Salad
• Crab Cakes