There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth of a big bowl of shrimp soup. The spicy aroma dances through the air, wrapping you in a comforting hug. This QUICK AND SPICY SHRIMP SOUP is trending everywhere TikTok, Pinterest, you name it! Everyone loves a hearty dish that can be whipped up in a flash.
Imagine shrimp simmering in a rich broth with bold flavors of Cajun spices, vibrant veggies, and a touch of cream. It’s like your grandma’s version, but much easier and faster! You’ll find that this simple, pantry-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Full details in the blog!
I grew up folding my grandmother’s tales of cooking into my own chaotic kitchen adventures. This dish brings back those cozy memories, and I promise you’ll adore the secret ingredient that ties it all together! It’s just one of those meals that feels like home.
Enjoy a quick and spicy shrimp soup that’s perfect for weeknights. This quick shrimp soup recipe features bold flavors of a spicy Cajun shrimp chowder with a touch of fresh lime and cilantro. It’s a delightful bowl of Louisiana hot shrimp stew goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb medium shrimp peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 bell pepper diced
1 medium carrot peeled and sliced
1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped optional
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional 1–2 fresh chili peppers finely chopped for extra spice
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté onion until it softens and becomes fragrant for about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in garlic, bell pepper, and carrot and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.
Add diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth then bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, salt, and pepper and let the flavors meld by simmering for 5-6 minutes.
Gently add the shrimp into the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque.
Pour in the fresh lime juice and taste, adjusting seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne if needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro and extra lime wedges if desired.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Category:lunch
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 bowl
Calories:220-250 kcal
Fat:12g
Carbohydrates:15g
Protein:25g
Why You’ll Love This Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup
This quick and spicy shrimp soup perfectly balances warmth, spice, and nostalgia. It’s an ideal go-to for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet fast to prepare! Here are a few reasons you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
Express Cooking: Ready in just 25 minutesperfect for evenings when you’re short on time.
Deliciously Hearty: The mix of shrimp, spices, and fresh veggies creates a cozy bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug.
Full of Flavor: Packed with Cajun spices, each spoonful delivers a zesty punch. Add extra cayenne if you want more heat!
Kid-Friendly: Easily customizablemake it milder for kids while keeping it spicy for adults!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for this flavorful dish. Most are pantry staples you likely already have!
Shrimp: 1 pound of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well!
Veggies: A colorful mix of 1 small onion, bell pepper, and carrot to add sweetness and depth.
Spices: Chili powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika bring that signature Cajun kick.
Liquids: Low-sodium chicken broth and a can of diced tomatoes form the rich base.
Tools: A large pot and a wooden spoonsimple tools for stirring up hearty goodness.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to get started? These steps are straightforward, perfect for beginner cooks to follow with ease.
Prep: Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot, and set aside. If your shrimp aren’t prepped, peel and devein them now!
Cook the Base: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic, bell pepper, and carrot and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Add Liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a simmer for 5-6 minutes.
Season: Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Cook the Shrimp: Gently stir in the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking!
Finish Strong: Add a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Pro Tips & Variations
Feeling like tailoring this soup to your liking? Here are some ideas to customize it:
Extra Heat: Add 1-2 finely chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra kick. Remember, everyone’s spice tolerance differs!
Texture Boost: For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back into the pot.
Flavor Boost: Add a dash of hot sauce or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess and extra flavor layers.
Storage Tips: Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Serving Ideas & Storage Tips
This soup is versatile and delicious. Here’s how to enjoy and store it:
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Pair with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the soup fresh. Best enjoyed within a few days.
Freezing: You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Label them and consume within 2-3 months for best flavor.
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The Adventurous Path to Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup
This Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup didn’t come together overnight. I can’t count how many times I mixed up cayenne with paprikalet’s just say my first tries were more volcanic than cozy! After several spicy trials and lots of taste-testing, I finally nailed the perfect balance of heat and comfort.
FAQs ( Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup )
What are the key ingredients for this recipe?
The key ingredients include shrimp, a blend of spices like cayenne and paprika, tomatoes, and a flavorful broth. You may also use garlic, onions, and bell peppers to enhance the taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add brightness.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this dish. Just thaw them properly before adding them to the soup to ensure even cooking. Make sure to dry them well to avoid excess water in the broth.
How spicy is this dish?
This meal has a moderate level of spice, making it enjoyable for most palates. You can adjust the heat by varying the amount of cayenne pepper or adding fresh chili peppers if you prefer it spicier.
What side dishes pair well with this soup?
Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A fresh green salad can also balance the flavors nicely. For a New Orleans twist, consider a side of cornbread.
How long does it take to make?
This dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner. The cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade soup in no time.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve made this quick and spicy shrimp soup, you’ll love how it fills your kitchen with warm, spicy aromas! In just 25 minutes, you’ll enjoy a comforting bowl full of flavor that feels like a cozy hug. You can almost hear the nostalgic laughter from family gatherings in every bite!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an added kick! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked shrimp is a great shortcut. And remember, this soup reheats beautifullyjust warm it gently, and it will taste like it was freshly made.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did this dish inspire any special memories? Snap a photo or leave a comment to share how your spicy shrimp soup turned out. Don’t forget to save this recipe for a cozy dinner with the ones you loveit’s a true crowd-pleaser that feels just like home.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
