Healthy Shrimp Gumbo Recipe

Even my picky kids love it! We make it all of the time and they even love helping me in the kitchen. While they aren’t normally fans of zucchini, they definitely love it this way! If you’re needing an easy way to make crispy zucchini quickly, the air fryer is truly one of my favorite methods. I’m so obsessed with this recipe and I know you’re going to love it, too!

How to Make a Roux for Shrimp Gumbo

So if you’re making gumbo, something that’s an absolute must is to start it with roux! The actual definition of roux is that it’s “a mixture of fat (especially butter) and flour used in making sauces”. In this case, I used a little bit of olive oil and whole wheat flour to get the job done!

I actually didn’t put a whole lot of roux in the recipe since my goal was to keep it as healthy as possible, so I didn’t have to cook it for as long as I normally would have. Normal shrimp gumbo recipes definitely use more of it! My biggest tip: don’t let the roux burn! Stay on it, stirring often and making sure that it doesn’t ever stick to the sides of the pan. It’s ready when it turns a dark caramel color!

I think you guys will really love this recipe 😉 It’s SO good! Personally, I love making it in bulk and having it throughout the week. Cody absolutely loves it, too!

Looking for more healthy and delicious dinner recipes? Try out these Slow Cooker Beef Carnitas Tacos and this Dairy-Free Tuscan Chicken Skillet!

Watch this video on how to make Healthy Cajun Shrimp Gumbo:

Shrimp Gumbo Recipe FAQs

What is the secret to good gumbo?

The secret to a great gumbo is all in the roux! Stirring it patiently until it reaches a rich, deep color adds that classic, smoky flavor. The layers of seasoning add an authentic, bold taste that truly define a good gumbo recipe!

Can I put raw shrimp in gumbo?

Yes, you can absolutely add raw shrimp to gumbo! Just toss them in during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook and stay perfectly tender.

How do you thicken shrimp gumbo?

Gumbo is traditionally thickened with a roux. If you want to easily thicken gumbo a bit more, whisk a small amount of the soup with a teaspoon of cornstarch or flour and then add it into the gumbo, stirring quickly. Another option it to make another roux and stir it in!

What is the Holy Trinity in cooking gumbo?

The Holy Trinity refers to the classic trio of onion, celery, and bell pepper. These ingredients are sautéed at the start of the recipe to create the foundation of flavor for gumbo and other Cajun dishes.

Is gumbo healthy?

Gumbo can be a healthy and balanced meal, especially when made with wholesome ingredients like shrimp, veggies, and a lighter roux. It also tends to be higher in protein!

Here’s the recipe for this delicious Healthy Cajun Shrimp Gumbo:

4.47 from 26 votes

Print Recipe

Shrimp Gumbo Recipe

Savory, spicy, warm, and delicious Healthy Cajun Shrimp Gumbo that's perfect for dinner throughout the week. So good!

Course: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Servings: 5

Calories: 297 kcal

Author: Christine McMichael

Ingredients

• ▢ 30 medium shrimp (peeled, deveined)
• ▢ 3 Tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 3 Tbsp whole wheat flour
• ▢ 1/3 onion
• ▢ 2 green bell peppers
• ▢ 1 garlic clove
• ▢ 1 Cup diced tomatoes
• ▢ 1.5 Cups chicken stock
• ▢ 1/2 Tbsp paprika
• ▢ 1/2 tsp oregano
• ▢ 1 Tbsp chili powder
• ▢ 2 Tbsp crushed parsley
• ▢ 1 Tbsp crushed bay leaves
• ▢ pinch cayenne pepper
• ▢ salt/pepper
• ▢ 1 Cup shredded kale
• ▢ 1 Cup cooked quinoa

Instructions

• To create the roux, whisk the olive oil and flour over medium-high heat. 
• Continue mixing with a wooden spoon (making sure to scrape the sides of the pan) for about 20 minutes, or until the the roux begins to turn a dark caramel color.
• Add the vegetables (except for the kale), then sauté until the peppers and onion begin to soften.
• Add the stock and spices, continue to cook.
• Once the mixture begins to bubble, lower the heat and add in the shrimp. 
• Continue cooking for about 10 minutes.
• Lastly, add in the shredded kale. 
• Remove from heat, top each serving with quinoa, and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 297 kcal

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