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Easy Shrimp Creole Ready in Under 45 Minutes

Close-up of a bowl of vibrant Shrimp Creole served with a perfectly molded scoop of white rice.

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Make this classic Louisiana Shrimp Creole with tender shrimp in a spicy tomato sauce. This authentic Creole recipe is simple, flavorful, and ready for your weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery (the holy trinity). Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
  6. Remove the bay leaf. Add the seasoned shrimp to the simmering sauce. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Do not overcook the shrimp.
  7. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed.
  8. Serve the Shrimp Creole immediately over hot cooked white rice.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use seafood broth instead of chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 5 minutes of simmering the shrimp.
  • This dish pairs well with simple cornbread or a light green salad.

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