Shrimp Etouffee For 24 People
A rich and flavorful shrimp etouffee featuring tender shrimp, savory vegetables, and a spicy tomato-based sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and hearty dinner occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop onions, celery, bell peppers, garlic, and green onions. Saute in butter until vegetables are tender.
- Squeeze lemons and add the juice to the vegetable mixture.
- Place Ro-Tel tomatoes in a food processor and whip until smooth.
- Add the whipped tomatoes, mushroom soup, and mushrooms to the vegetable mixture.
- Add at least 4 cups of water and simmer until flavors meld and sauce thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of fresh and smoked sausages in addition to the shrimp. If you want a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch, mixing it with a little water before incorporating it into the dish to avoid clumps. For a twist, you can also add spices like cayenne or paprika to enhance the heat, reminiscent of flavors found in Crabmeat Thermidor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp étouffée over a bed of fluffy white rice or with crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For added freshness, garnish with additional chopped green onions. This dish pairs beautifully with Black-Eyed Pea Shrimp Gumbo, creating a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid boiling to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Etouffee For 24 People contains roughly 630 calories, with 11g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 553mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sauté properly and maintain their texture.
What if I can't find Ro-Tel tomatoes?
If Ro-Tel tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with any canned diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of chopped green chilies or jalapeños to replicate the flavor and heat levels.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the étouffée a day in advance and refrigerate it. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Just reheat gently before serving.
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).