Easy Cajun Shrimp Étouffée
This Easy Cajun Shrimp Étouffée is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with spices and tender shrimp, it’s a comforting dish that’s ready in no time!
When you’re craving rich, comforting Cajun flavors, this Easy Cajun Shrimp Étouffée is the perfect dish to make.
The combination of tender shrimp, bold spices, and a creamy, velvety sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.
What makes this recipe so great is how it packs a punch with just a handful of ingredients.
The Cajun spices give it that authentic kick, while the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully.
It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknights and special occasions.
Serve this over steamed rice or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner or cooking for yourself, this Easy Cajun Shrimp Étouffée will have everyone asking for seconds!
What is Étouffée?
Étouffée (pronounced “ay-too-FAY”) is a beloved Cajun and Creole dish that features a delicious roux-based sauce served over rice.
Traditionally, it’s made with seafood, often shrimp or crawfish, but honestly, shrimp Étouffée is a fan favorite!
The combination of tender shrimp, a rich, seasoned sauce, and a comforting rice base is truly something special.
Ingredients:
● 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
● 2 tbsp vegetable oil
● 1 onion, diced
● 1 bell pepper, chopped
● 2 cloves garlic, minced
● 2 tbsp butter
● 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
● 1 ½ cups chicken or seafood broth
● 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
● ½ tsp smoked paprika
● ½ tsp dried thyme
● ½ tsp dried oregano
● ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
● Salt and pepper, to taste
● 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
● Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
● Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until they become soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
● Stir in the minced garlic for the final minute to avoid burning.
2. Create the Roux
● Reduce the heat to low and melt the butter into the skillet.
● Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking it gently for 2-3 minutes until the roux turns a rich golden brown color.
● This step is essential for building that creamy, flavorful base.
3. Add Broth & Seasoning
● Slowly pour in the chicken or seafood broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
● Then, stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
● Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens beautifully.
4. Cook the Shrimp
● Add the peeled shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
● Stir occasionally to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated in the rich sauce.
5. Garnish & Serve
● Once the shrimp are cooked, sprinkle in the chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
● Serve the Étouffée over cooked white rice, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal!
Pro Tips:
Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing the cayenne pepper depending on how much heat you can handle.
Don’t skip the roux step—this is what creates that velvety, flavorful sauce!
Feel free to experiment with your favorite Cajun seasonings or fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Cajun Shrimp Étouffée is a dish that brings a little taste of Louisiana into your kitchen.
Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress with its rich, comforting flavors. Enjoy!
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