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One Pot Shrimp Creole

A flavorful and hearty dish that beautifully combines shrimp with fresh vegetables and rich tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Creole
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the sauté
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Used for sautéing the vegetables and adding flavor.
  • 1 medium sweet onion Adds sweetness and aroma to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic Provides depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 medium green bell pepper Adds a crunchy texture and mild flavor.
  • 1 medium red bell pepper Offers sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 2 stalks celery Contributes crunch and flavor complexity.
For the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Intensifies the tomato flavor in the sauce.
  • 1 can stewed tomatoes Forms the base of the sauce and adds moisture.
  • 1 cup tomato sauce Adds richness and thickens the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Enhances savory notes (optional).
  • 1 to taste hot sauce Provides heat and vibrancy.
  • 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning Adds a blend of spices to kick up the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Offers a subtle herbaceous note (optional).
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances and enhances the flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper Adds spiciness and depth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Introduces extra heat (optional).
For the protein
  • 1 pound shrimp The star protein of the dish, providing a rich, succulent flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the pan. Place a large cast-iron pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add oil and aromatics. Add vegetable oil and wait for it to heat up. Add diced onion and garlic, stir and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Incorporate vegetables. Add diced bell peppers and celery. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
Cooking
  1. Mix in the tomatoes. Add the stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir to combine.
  2. Season the sauce. Add Creole seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. Stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook the shrimp. Add raw shrimp, stir, and cook for another 7-10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.
Serving
  1. Adjust seasoning. Adjust the sauce for salt, pepper, and spiciness to taste.
  2. Plate the dish. Serve over rice and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen shrimp can be used but should be thawed thoroughly. Experiment with different vegetables such as zucchini or corn for added variety.