Charleston Shrimp Creole
A vibrant Southern dish featuring succulent shrimp simmered in a flavorful tomato and vegetable sauce, served over rice—perfect for seafood lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large cast-iron skillet, heat until smoking, then combine bacon drippings and all vegetables; cook until medium tender.
- Add 1 cup water to the skillet and continue cooking.
- Add the shrimp and cook, covered, until the meat has turned white.
- Remove from heat and pour the mixture over cooked white rice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced smoked sausage or andouille to the shrimp mixture. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned tomatoes can be used instead—just drain excess liquid. You can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier dish. For a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream can be stirred in just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp creole over a generous scoop of cooked white rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top adds a fresh touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charleston Shrimp Creole contains roughly 410 calories, with 12g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (147% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 20g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for convenience. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the skillet to prevent excess water from watering down the dish.
What if I don't have Creole seasoning?
If you don't have Creole seasoning on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust the proportions to taste for a similar flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply heat it up, add the shrimp, and follow the remaining steps. This makes for a quick, weeknight dinner option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).