Introduction
A truly Creole Jambalaya Recipe captures the heart of New Orleans cuisine — bold, spicy, and irresistibly comforting. This iconic Southern rice dish combines smoky Andouille sausage, tender shrimp, and fragrant spices simmered together in a one-pot masterpiece. Originating from Louisiana’s vibrant Creole culture, this dish is more than just dinner — it’s a flavor experience that brings a touch of the French Quarter to your kitchen.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!If you’re craving a dish that’s both hearty and soulful, this authentic Creole Jambalaya delivers. Whether for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, every spoonful tells a story of tradition and flavor. Let’s dive into how to make this classic Louisiana Jambalaya at home — simple, satisfying, and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Creole Jambalaya Recipe
Bursting with Flavor: A balance of smoky, spicy, and savory in every bite.
Protein-Rich Goodness: Loaded with shrimp, sausage, and optional chicken for hearty satisfaction.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum taste.
Perfect for Weeknights: Ready in about an hour with simple steps.
Authentic Taste of Louisiana: True New Orleans comfort food.
Budget-Friendly: Feeds a crowd using pantry staples.
Customizable: Adjust spice, protein, or rice for your taste.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love this flavorful Creole dish.
Ingredients
This Creole Jambalaya Recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients, each contributing to the dish’s signature taste and texture.
Proteins
1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
💡 Substitution Tip: You can add diced chicken thighs for a Creole Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya variation.
Vegetables (The Holy Trinity)
3 stalks celery (1 cup), chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 scallions, sliced
💡 Why it matters: This base — onion, bell pepper, and celery — defines Creole cuisine and builds deep flavor.
Pantry & Spices
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper
2 cups long-grain white rice
2 tbsp tomato paste
4 ½ cups chicken broth
1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
How to Make Creole Jambalaya
Follow these simple steps to make the best Creole Jambalaya Recipe at home:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking later.
2. Brown the Sausage
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage slices and cook for 7–9 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining butter, then toss in celery, bell pepper, and onion. Cook for 6–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Season the Base
Reduce heat to medium. Stir in all spices — salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the flavors.
5. Add Rice & Tomato Paste
Stir in the uncooked rice and tomato paste. Toast for 3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb flavor and color.
6. Build the Broth
Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, scraping up any brown bits. Return sausage to the pot and bring to a boil.
7. Add Shrimp & Bake
Stir in shrimp and half the scallions. Cover the pot and bake for 30 minutes, or until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
8. Rest & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with remaining scallions for color and freshness.
Pro Tips for Perfect Jambalaya
How do you make Creole Jambalaya not mushy?
Use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring after baking. Too much agitation releases starch and causes stickiness.
What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole Jambalaya?
Creole Jambalaya includes tomatoes, giving it a red hue and deeper flavor, while Cajun Jambalaya is tomato-free and smokier.
Can I make Jambalaya ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats beautifully. Store it in airtight containers and refresh with a splash of broth before reheating.
Best Ways to Serve
Pair this Classic Creole Jambalaya with:
Garlic bread or cornbread
A fresh green salad
A cool glass of sweet tea or light beer
👉 Try serving alongside my Garlic Butter Steak Bites or Crispy Baked Italian Eggplant Recipe for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Calories: 485 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 980mg
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Add a tablespoon of broth and microwave or warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
Recipe Variations
Creole Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya: Replace shrimp with chicken thighs.
Creole Shrimp Jambalaya: Double the shrimp for a seafood-forward version.
Spicy Creole Jambalaya: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce.
Vegetarian Jambalaya: Omit meat and use vegetable broth with mushrooms and okra.
Light & Fresh: Add lemon juice and parsley for brightness.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice for Jambalaya?
Yes, but extend the cooking time by about 15 minutes since brown rice takes longer to soften.
What’s the best sausage for Creole Jambalaya?
Andouille sausage is traditional for its smoky, spicy flavor. You can substitute smoked kielbasa if needed.
Is Jambalaya spicy?
It can be! Adjust the cayenne pepper or use mild sausage for a gentler kick.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about a Creole Jambalaya Recipe — it’s the perfect blend of bold flavor, Louisiana spirit, and heartwarming comfort. Every bite celebrates Creole tradition, bringing people together around a single pot of joy.