This Shrimp Creole recipe nails that spicy-sweet balance with plump shrimp tucked into a rich tomato sauce, and every bite feels like a warm hug (honestly, you’ll want another helping). The best part is how fast it comes together, delivering bold flavors and real comfort without a lot of fuss.
PrintHow to Make Authentic Shrimp Creole at Home [Step-by-Step]
This Shrimp Creole recipe nails that spicy-sweet balance with plump shrimp tucked into a rich tomato sauce, and every bite feels like a warm hug (honestly, you’ll want another helping). The best part is how fast it comes together, delivering bold flavors and real comfort without a lot of fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 14-oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 8-oz can tomato sauce
- 1–2 dashes hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 tbsp Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning
- salt, to taste
- 1 tsp corn starch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
- parsley & green onion, chopped, for garnish
- cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
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Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet and wilt down (about 5 minutes). Add the garlic and sauté for 1 additional minute.
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Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning and salt. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce to a simmer. Let simmer for 15 minutes.
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Make a slurry with the corn starch and water. Add to the skillet and stir. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
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Add the shrimp and stir. Cover and cook for 5-6 minutes or until shrimp is opaque and cooked through (internal temp 145 ℉).
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Serve with cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onion and/or parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Store
Fridge: Transfer the dish to a large glass storage container with an airtight lid. Allow it to cool to room temperature before securing the lid (about 30-45 minutes; the exact time depends on the amount of food). Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Place the dish in the fridge to thaw overnight for best results.
Reheat
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave on high for 1-3 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway through to warm it evenly.*
Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat. Once the liquid is simmering, reduce to medium-low and cover for 3-5 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it starts to dry out. Stir occasionally.*
Oven: Not recommended.
1. Shrimp
Well, obviously! You’ll want to use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined. Opt for large shrimp for a meatier bite.
2. Tomatoes
The star of the show! Whether you’re using fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes, they form the base of the rich and tangy sauce.
3. Onions, Bell Peppers, Celery
Ah, the holy trinity of Cajun cuisine! These aromatic veggies add depth and flavor to the dish. Chop them up finely and let them work their magic.
4. Garlic
Because let’s be real, everything’s better with garlic! Mince it up and sauté it with the veggies for an extra punch of flavor.
5. Hot Sauce
This is where you bring the heat! Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mix to dial up the spiciness to your liking.
6. Rice
What’s shrimp creole without something to soak up all that saucy goodness? Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice and prepare to dive in.
7. Green Onions (Scallions)
For a fresh and zesty finish, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top just before serving. It adds a pop of color and a hint of oniony goodness.
8. Herbs and Spices
Get ready to spice things up! You’ll need Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning for that signature Creole kick.

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Yum! After my own heart! I follow shrimp anywhere. 🤣
You cannot go wrong with shrimp!