Kick off your culinary adventure with a bowl full of warmth and zest! Our roundup of 12 Spicy Seafood Gumbo Delicacies is here to spice up your dinner routine. Perfect for those who love a little heat with their seafood, these recipes promise to deliver bold flavors and comforting vibes. Dive in and discover your next favorite dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Classic New Orleans Seafood Gumbo

Here’s how to bring the vibrant flavors of New Orleans into your kitchen with a Classic Seafood Gumbo. This dish is a hearty, flavorful stew that’s perfect for any occasion, and I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your gumbo is as authentic as it gets.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (the base of any good gumbo)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (adds a slight crunch and sweetness)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (for that essential earthy flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced (I prefer it slightly spicy)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat adds a luxurious texture)
- 6 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)
- 2 bay leaves (they’re the secret to depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust according to your heat preference)
- 1 tsp thyme (dried is fine, but fresh is phenomenal)
- 1 tsp filé powder (added at the end for authenticity)
- Salt to taste (though I find the Cajun seasoning usually covers it)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly until it reaches a dark chocolate color, about 20-25 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush the roux; its color dictates the gumbo’s flavor.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the andouille sausage, cooking for another 5 minutes to render some fat.
- Pour in the chicken stock, bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, and thyme, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, simmering uncovered for 30 minutes to meld the flavors. Tip: Skim off any fat that rises to the top for a cleaner taste.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Tip: Overcooking the seafood will make it tough, so keep an eye on it.
- Remove from heat, stir in the filé powder, and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Season with salt if needed, and remove the bay leaves before serving.
With its rich, velvety broth and layers of seafood and sausage, this gumbo is a celebration of textures and tastes. Serve it over a mound of steamed rice, or for a true New Orleans experience, with a side of crusty French bread to soak up every last drop.
Spicy Cajun Seafood Gumbo

Gumbo is a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking, and this Spicy Cajun Seafood Gumbo is no exception. It’s a flavorful journey that starts with a rich roux and ends with a bowl full of tender seafood and bold spices, perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (I like to sift mine to avoid lumps)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (extra virgin olive oil can add a nice depth, but vegetable oil is traditional)
- 1 large onion, diced (yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced (the crunch adds a nice texture)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is always best)
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced (smoked sausage works too, but andouille brings the heat)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I prefer wild-caught for their flavor)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat is luxurious here)
- 6 cups chicken stock (homemade stock is a game-changer)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 tsp thyme (dried is fine, but fresh thyme leaves are magical)
- 1 bay leaf (don’t skip this—it adds a subtle depth)
- Salt to taste (I start with 1/2 tsp and adjust from there)
- Cooked white rice, for serving (Jasmine rice is my favorite with gumbo)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a dark chocolate color, about 20-25 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat steady to avoid burning the roux.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the roux. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sliced andouille sausage. Cook for another 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes. Tip: Skim off any foam that rises to the top for a clearer broth.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat to the pot. Simmer until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcook the seafood to keep it tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and season with salt to taste. Serve the gumbo hot over cooked white rice.
Now, this Spicy Cajun Seafood Gumbo is a symphony of textures and flavors—the creamy roux, the tender seafood, and the spicy kick of the andouille sausage all come together beautifully. For a creative twist, try serving it with a side of crusty French bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth.
Okra-Free Seafood Gumbo

For those who love the rich flavors of traditional gumbo but aren’t fans of okra, this Okra-Free Seafood Gumbo is a delightful alternative. Follow these steps carefully to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly textured.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (I prefer yellow for sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh is always best)
- 4 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crab meat (lump for texture)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for depth)
- Salt to taste (I start with 1/2 tsp)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Whisk in the flour gradually to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 20 minutes until it reaches a deep brown color. Tip: Keep the heat steady to avoid burning.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously to combine with the roux.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for 30 minutes. Tip: Skim off any foam that forms on top for a clearer gumbo.
- Add the shrimp, crab meat, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt. Simmer for another 10 minutes until the seafood is cooked through. Tip: Don’t overcook the seafood to keep it tender.
Best enjoyed hot, this gumbo boasts a velvety texture with layers of spicy, smoky flavors. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
Quick and Easy Seafood Gumbo

Kickstart your culinary adventure with this Quick and Easy Seafood Gumbo, a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the coast right to your kitchen. Perfect for beginners, this recipe breaks down the process into simple, manageable steps, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its rich flavor)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (the sweeter, the better in my book)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (adds a nice crunch)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (for that essential earthy flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (because more garlic is always better)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch)
- 1 lb crab meat (lump crab meat adds a luxurious texture)
- 6 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust according to your heat preference)
- 1 bay leaf (don’t skip this; it’s the secret to depth of flavor)
- Salt to taste (I like to use sea salt for a cleaner taste)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Whisk in the flour gradually to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 15-20 minutes until it reaches a deep brown color. Tip: Keep the heat steady to avoid burning.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Tip: This is your flavor base, so take your time to sweat the veggies properly.
- Pour in the chicken stock, stirring to combine with the roux and vegetables. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning and bay leaf, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes. Tip: Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat to the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove the bay leaf and season with salt to taste before serving.
Final thoughts: This gumbo boasts a rich, velvety texture with layers of flavor from the seafood and spices. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.
Authentic Creole Seafood Gumbo

You’re about to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Louisiana with this Authentic Creole Seafood Gumbo. Let’s break it down into simple, manageable steps to ensure your success in recreating this classic dish at home.
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
– 1 large onion, diced (yellow onions are my preference for sweetness)
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced (the holy trinity of Creole cooking)
– 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh is always best)
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced (adds a smoky depth)
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I like to keep them large for texture)
– 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat is ideal for its tenderness)
– 6 cups chicken stock (homemade if possible, for richness)
– 1 tbsp Creole seasoning (adjust according to your heat preference)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf (remove before serving)
– Salt to taste (I start with 1/2 tsp and adjust)
– Cooked white rice, for serving
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 20 minutes until it reaches a deep chocolate color. Tip: Patience is key here; don’t rush the roux.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. This builds the flavor base.
3. Stir in the andouille sausage and cook for another 5 minutes to render some fat and add smokiness.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring to combine with the roux and vegetables. Tip: Adding the stock gradually prevents lumps.
5. Add the Creole seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Tip: Overcooking the seafood will make it tough.
7. Serve the gumbo hot over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions. Just imagine the harmony of flavors and textures in every bite—the creamy roux, the tender seafood, and the spicy sausage, all coming together in this quintessential Creole dish.
Vegetable-Packed Seafood Gumbo

Welcome to a flavorful journey where the ocean meets the garden in this hearty Vegetable-Packed Seafood Gumbo. Perfect for beginners, this recipe breaks down each step to ensure a delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (I prefer yellow for sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced (the crunch is essential)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (freshly minced releases more flavor)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught adds a better taste)
- 1 lb crab meat (lump crab meat is my favorite for texture)
- 4 cups chicken stock (homemade stock elevates the dish)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, fire-roasted for a smoky hint)
- 2 cups okra, sliced (fresh if available, for that authentic gumbo texture)
- 1 tsp thyme (dried works, but fresh thyme leaves are magical)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for a deep, smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (I start with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper, adjusting as needed)
Instructions
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour gradually to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 20 minutes until it reaches a dark chocolate color. Tip: Constant stirring prevents burning.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the roux, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Tip: This trio is known as the ‘holy trinity’ in Cajun cooking.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and add the okra, thyme, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 30 minutes. Tip: Simmering melds the flavors beautifully.
- Gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.
Delight in the rich, smoky flavors and the perfect balance of textures in this gumbo. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of its savory goodness.
Slow Cooker Seafood Gumbo

Today we’re diving into the heart of Southern cuisine with a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. This Slow Cooker Seafood Gumbo is a foolproof way to bring the taste of Louisiana to your kitchen, no matter your cooking skill level.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (I always sift mine to avoid lumps)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (extra virgin olive oil can add a nice depth, but vegetable oil is traditional)
- 1 large onion, diced (yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced (the crunch adds a lovely texture)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best here, no substitutes)
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced (smoked sausage works in a pinch)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I prefer wild-caught for their flavor)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat is worth the splurge)
- 6 cups chicken stock (homemade stock elevates the dish)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt to taste (start with 1/2 tsp and adjust)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, combine the flour and oil over medium heat to make the roux. Stir constantly for about 20 minutes until it reaches a deep brown color, similar to peanut butter.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the andouille sausage, chicken stock, bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat to the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on LOW, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Rich and hearty, this gumbo boasts a velvety texture with layers of flavor from the seafood and spices. For a creative twist, try serving it with a side of crusty French bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.
Gluten-Free Seafood Gumbo

On a day like today, when the air carries a hint of summer’s warmth, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Gluten-Free Seafood Gumbo. This dish, with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, is a perfect way to bring a taste of the coast to your table, no matter where you are.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (I find Bob’s Red Mill works best)
- 1 large onion, diced (yellow onions are my preference for their sweetness)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced makes all the difference)
- 4 cups seafood stock (homemade if you have it, but store-bought is fine)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I like to use wild-caught for their flavor)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat adds a nice texture)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust according to your heat preference)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste (I start with 1/2 tsp and adjust from there)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Whisk in the gluten-free flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes until it turns a light brown color.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the seafood stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, and salt, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the gumbo simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat to the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Every spoonful of this gumbo offers a symphony of textures, from the tender shrimp to the succulent crab, all enveloped in a richly flavored broth. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty gluten-free bread to soak up every last drop.
Rich and Hearty Seafood Gumbo

Venturing into the heart of Southern cuisine, we’re tackling a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history—seafood gumbo. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring your gumbo is nothing short of spectacular.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (the sweeter, the better)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (adds a fresh crunch)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (for that essential earthy flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (because garlic is life)
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced (smoky and spicy)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I prefer wild-caught for their sweetness)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat adds luxury)
- 4 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 tsp thyme (dried works, but fresh is magical)
- 1 bay leaf (don’t skip this—it’s the soul of the gumbo)
- Salt to taste (start with 1/2 tsp and adjust)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Tip: Keep the heat steady to avoid burning the roux.
- Whisk in the flour gradually, stirring constantly for about 20 minutes until the roux turns a deep chocolate color. Tip: This is the foundation of your gumbo’s flavor, so patience is key.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the andouille sausage, cooking for another 5 minutes to release its flavors.
- Pour in the chicken stock, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes. Tip: Skim off any fat that rises to the top for a cleaner taste.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until the shrimp turns pink, about 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle this hearty gumbo over a bed of steamed rice, and let the rich, smoky flavors with a hint of spice transport you straight to the Louisiana bayou. The texture is a beautiful symphony of creamy roux, tender seafood, and the slight crunch of vegetables, making every spoonful a delight.
Seafood Gumbo with Andouille Sausage

Just imagine the rich, comforting flavors of the South simmering in your kitchen with this Seafood Gumbo with Andouille Sausage. It’s a dish that brings together the ocean’s bounty and the smoky depth of sausage in a way that’s both hearty and elegant.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (I love the sweetness it adds)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced (the holy trinity of Cajun cooking)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (because more garlic is always better)
- 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced (smoky and spicy, it’s the soul of the dish)
- 4 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump or claw, depending on your preference)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to your heat tolerance)
- 2 bay leaves (for that subtle depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste, but be generous)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for a bright finish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving (the perfect base to soak up all the flavors)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Tip: A cast iron pot is ideal for even heat distribution.
- Add the flour to the oil, stirring constantly to make a roux. Cook until it’s a deep chocolate color, about 20-25 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush the roux; its color is key to the gumbo’s flavor.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the Andouille sausage, cooking until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes. Tip: Browning the sausage adds another layer of flavor.
- Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring to combine with the roux. Add the Cajun seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Tip: Overcooking the seafood will make it tough, so keep an eye on it.
- Remove the bay leaves and stir in the parsley. Serve hot over cooked white rice.
Best enjoyed when the gumbo’s rich, velvety broth hugs each grain of rice, and the seafood is perfectly tender. For a twist, serve with a side of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that flavorful broth.
Low-Carb Seafood Gumbo

Preparing a delicious Low-Carb Seafood Gumbo is easier than you think, especially when you follow these simple steps. Perfect for those who love rich flavors without the carbs, this dish is a hearty option for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I like to use wild-caught for better flavor)
- 1 lb crab meat, picked over for shells (lump crab meat adds a nice texture)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1 cup okra, sliced (fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch)
- 1/2 cup celery, diced (adds a nice crunch)
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced (for a slight sweetness)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced (yellow onions are my preference here)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced makes all the difference)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a deep, smoky flavor)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Salt to taste (I start with 1/2 tsp and adjust from there)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
- Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Add the okra to the pot and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Okra can be slimy, but cooking it this way helps reduce that texture.
- Pour in the chicken broth, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat to the pot. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Tip: Overcooking the seafood can make it tough, so keep an eye on it.
- Season with salt to taste, then remove from heat.
Best enjoyed hot, this Low-Carb Seafood Gumbo boasts a rich, smoky flavor with a perfect balance of heat. Serve it over cauliflower rice for an extra low-carb twist or with a side of crusty bread for those who aren’t watching their carbs.
Seafood Gumbo with a Kick of Cayenne

Preparing a hearty seafood gumbo with a kick of cayenne is simpler than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the South to your table. Let’s break down the process into manageable steps to ensure your gumbo is flavorful and perfectly thickened every time.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (my go-to for its fruity notes)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for that essential roux)
- 1 large onion, diced (the base of any good gumbo)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (adds a slight sweetness)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (for that crunch and freshness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced (for a smoky depth)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (I prefer wild-caught for their sweetness)
- 1/2 lb crab meat (lump crab meat is my choice for its texture)
- 6 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 2 bay leaves (for that subtle herbal note)
- Salt to taste (I start with 1 tsp and adjust from there)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish and a pop of color)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (fresh is always best)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly until it reaches a dark chocolate color, about 20-25 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat medium-low to avoid burning.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and andouille sausage, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the cayenne pepper, bay leaves, and salt, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the gumbo simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcook the seafood to keep it tender.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard.
- Garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.
Delight in the rich, velvety texture of your gumbo, with each spoonful offering a harmonious blend of spicy, smoky, and sweet flavors. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.
Conclusion
Gumbo lovers, you’re in for a treat with these 12 Spicy Seafood Gumbo Delicacies! Each recipe brings its own unique twist to the classic, promising to warm your soul and spice up your mealtime. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below. Don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest for fellow seafood enthusiasts to discover. Happy cooking!