Are you looking for a flavorful and spicy dish to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further than these 20 Spicy Shrimp Creole Recipes with a Cajun Kick! Inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana, these mouth-watering recipes combine succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of the Bayou. From classic New Orleans-style dishes to innovative twists and variations, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of spicy shrimp creole, where the heat is turned up a notch (or several!) with the addition of bold spices, hot sauces, and fiery peppers. Whether you’re a fan of slow-cooked stews or quick weeknight meals, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 20 Spicy Shrimp Creole Recipes with a Cajun Kick that will spice up your cooking game!
Classic New Orleans Shrimp Creole
This iconic dish from the Big Easy combines succulent shrimp with a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles. With its bold spices and deep flavors, this creole classic is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup long-grain rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
6. Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato-Based Shrimp Creole
This classic Louisiana dish is a flavorful twist on traditional shrimp etouffee, with the added kick of spicy tomatoes and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
– Cooked rice or pasta for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or pasta, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Shrimp Creole with Bell Peppers
Savor the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this easy and aromatic slow-cooked shrimp creole dish, bursting with sweet bell peppers and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, bell peppers, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
3. Add the shrimp, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley. Stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy One-Pot Shrimp Creole
This classic Louisiana-inspired dish is a flavorful and spicy delight that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With only one pot to clean, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering shrimp creole in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked white rice or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Authentic Louisiana Shrimp Creole
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans with this classic shrimp creole recipe, a staple of Louisiana cuisine. This hearty dish combines succulent shrimp with aromatic spices, rich tomatoes, and flavorful herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with scallions and serve over rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Creole with Andouille Sausage
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of Andouille sausage, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. A spicy kick from cayenne pepper adds depth to this hearty one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes or until flavors combine.
6. Serve hot over rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Weeknight Shrimp Creole
A flavorful and spicy one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This shrimp creole is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen okra, thawed
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, okra, Creole seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink.
4. Pour in chicken broth and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Style Shrimp Creole with Okra
This hearty dish combines succulent shrimp with the velvety texture of okra, all wrapped up in a rich and spicy Cajun-style creole sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups chopped okra
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, flour, and okra. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream; stir to combine.
5. Return shrimp to skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Creole over Fluffy White Rice
This classic Southern dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich and spicy Creole sauce, served atop a bed of fluffy white rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Creole seasoning (such as Tony’s)
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fluffy white rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, Creole seasoning, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve the shrimp Creole over the fluffy white rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bold and Smoky Shrimp Creole
This spicy and savory dish is a twist on the classic Louisiana Creole recipe, adding a smoky depth with chipotle peppers. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in chicken broth and tomato paste; bring to a simmer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rustic Shrimp Creole with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your taste buds with this flavorful and aromatic shrimp creole dish, bursting with fresh herbs and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Add shrimp, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Stir in parsley and cilantro.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Creole with a Kick of Hot Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy shrimp creole recipe, infused with the heat of hot sauce. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic-Infused Shrimp Creole
A classic Creole dish gets a flavorful boost from garlic-infused goodness! This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s packed with rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Creole seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook for 4-5 minutes until tender.
4. Add the shrimp, Creole seasoning, and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Stir in parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole Shrimp Stew with Tomatoes
This hearty stew is a flavorful blend of shrimp, vegetables, and spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With its rich tomato broth and tender seafood, this Creole-inspired dish will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp start to turn pink.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Shrimp Creole with a Touch of Worcestershire
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of creole seasoning, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, creole seasoning, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hearty Shrimp Creole with Celery and Onions
This classic Creole dish combines succulent shrimp with sautéed celery, onions, and spices for a flavorful and filling meal. With its rich tomato base and aromatic herbs, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and celery; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Shrimp Creole
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent shrimp with a spicy kick from the creole seasoning, all wrapped up in a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and creole seasoning; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in chili sauce, broth, tomato paste, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Shrimp Creole with Green Peppers
This classic Louisiana-inspired dish is a flavorful and spicy one-pot wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With succulent shrimp, crunchy green peppers, and a rich creole seasoning blend, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium green peppers, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and green peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich and Tangy Shrimp Creole
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic shrimp creole recipe! With a depth of flavor from dark roux and a tanginess from tomatoes, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup dark roux (see note)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook 1 minute.
3. Gradually add tomato paste, whisking constantly; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Add shrimp and dark roux; stir to coat.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with scallions and serve over rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bayou-Inspired Shrimp Creole
Discover the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic shrimp creole recipe. Served over steamed rice, this dish is a perfect representation of the Bayou’s rich culinary heritage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; cook until shrimp turn pink.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, and tomato paste.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Serve over steamed rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to kick up your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering shrimp creole recipes that pack a Cajun punch! From classic New Orleans-inspired dishes to spicy twists and slow-cooked masterpieces, this collection has something for every palate. Discover bold flavors, smoky spices, and tangy sauces in these easy-to-make recipes that are sure to become instant favorites.
