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Ultimate Louisiana Seafood Gumbo Recipe

Savory Ultimate Louisiana Seafood Gumbo Recipe for Cozy Nights

A comforting and hearty dish, the Ultimate Louisiana Seafood Gumbo Recipe is perfect for chilly nights, bringing the rich flavors of Cajun and Creole cooking to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Roux
  • 0.75 cup all-purpose flour Essential for building a rich roux; aim for a dark brown color for maximum depth.
  • 0.75 cup vegetable oil Necessary for the roux; feel free to substitute with other neutral oils if desired.
For the Base
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped A key component of the holy trinity, providing flavor and crunch.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor; freshly minced garlic is best for a fragrant aroma.
For the Seafood
  • 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced Brings a smoky, spicy component; can be replaced with smoked kielbasa if necessary.
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined The star protein in your gumbo; use fresh Gulf shrimp for the best results.
  • 8 ounces lump crab meat Adds a sweet, tender texture; claw meat can provide a more briny flavor.
For Flavoring
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Infuses the dish with spice and complexity; toasting it in a skillet briefly enhances its flavor.
  • 5 cups seafood or chicken stock Serves as the foundation for the broth; homemade is preferred for greater depth.
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes Balances the richness with acidity; optional for a more traditional gumbo flavor.
For Garnish
  • 0.5 cup green onions, chopped Offers a fresh, vibrant finish; can be exchanged with parsley for variety.
  • Cooked white rice A traditional accompaniment that perfectly balances the soup's richness.

Equipment

  • large heavy-bottomed pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ultimate Louisiana Seafood Gumbo Recipe
  1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine 0.75 cup of all-purpose flour and 0.75 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. Stir constantly for 20-30 minutes, watching the roux darken to a rich chocolate color.
  2. Add 1 large diced yellow onion, 2 chopped celery ribs, and 1 chopped green bell pepper to the roux. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, stirring frequently. Then, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and continue cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Add 12 ounces of sliced andouille sausage to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned.
  4. Gradually whisk in 5 cups of seafood or chicken stock. Add 1 cup of diced tomatoes and 2 bay leaves, and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the gumbo to simmer uncovered for 45-60 minutes, occasionally stirring.
  6. In the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, gently fold in 1 pound of raw shrimp and 8 ounces of lump crab meat. Stir carefully, and cook until the shrimp turn opaque.
  7. Remove the bay leaves from the pot, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with 0.5 cup of chopped green onions just before serving. Serve hot over cooked white rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best flavor, consider making your gumbo a day ahead. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

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