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Shrimp Étouffée Recipe

Shrimp Étouffée Recipe

4.7 from 8 reviews

Shrimp Étouffée is a classic Cajun dish featuring tender shrimp smothered in a flavorful roux-based sauce, served over a bed of fluffy white rice. This recipe balances traditional Cajun spices with the richness of seafood stock for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups seafood or chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish and Serving:

  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cooked white rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Making the Roux: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, to make a medium-brown roux, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Sautéing Vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute.
  3. Creating the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the stock until smooth. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne (if using), bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Cooking the Shrimp: Add the shrimp and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until pink and cooked through. Remove bay leaves, stir in green onions and parsley, and serve over hot cooked rice.

Notes

  • For extra depth, use homemade seafood stock if available.
  • You can substitute shrimp with crawfish or add both for a richer dish.
  • Adjust cayenne to control spice level.

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