Tag: Crawfish recipes

Southern Sliders Done Right: Cajun Crawfish Edition

If you’re craving bold Louisiana flavor in a bite-sized package, these Crawfish Sliders from Louisiana Cookin will hit the spot. Packed with fresh Gulf shrimp, seasoned crawfish tails, vibrant herbs, and fiery Cajun spices, these sliders offer a satisfying mix of creaminess and heat. Whether you’re entertaining guests at a backyard boil or preparing a fun weeknight dinner with Southern flair, this recipe delivers indulgent comfort with a splash of spice and plenty of regional character.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Start by preparing the crawfish. Place a colander over a large bowl and empty the crawfish tails into it. Gently press the tails to release most of the flavorful liquid into the bowl below. Reserve both the crawfish and the extracted liquid. Pour the liquid into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce until the volume is halved—this concentrated essence will enhance the flavor of the sliders.
  2. Next, place the shrimp into the bowl of a food processor. While the processor runs, gradually add softened butter one tablespoon at a time. Scrape down the sides as needed until the shrimp and butter form a smooth, emulsified paste. Add the reduced crawfish liquid and blend until you have a creamy, cohesive mixture.
  3. Chop half of the reserved crawfish tails, leaving the rest whole for texture. Transfer the shrimp paste into a large mixing bowl and fold in the crawfish tails—both chopped and whole. Add in the garlic, green onions, parsley, jalapeño, lemon zest, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, pepper sauce, and salt. Use your hands to thoroughly combine the mixture. This step ensures all the flavors are evenly distributed.
  4. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and coat the bottom with peanut oil. To test your seasoning, cook a small ball of the crawfish mixture first. Reduce heat to medium once it sizzles, and cook until browned on both sides. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Use a ⅓-cup scoop to portion the mixture into balls. Return the skillet to high heat, adding more oil if necessary. Flatten each ball slightly with a spatula, then cook over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through on both sides.
  6. To assemble the sliders, spread Crawfish Dip on the bottom half of each toasted Hawaiian roll. Add a crawfish patty, then top with Bibb lettuce, sliced tomato, and red onion. Crown it with the other half of the roll and serve immediately.

These sliders are bold enough to stand alone, but they also shine alongside classic Southern accompaniments. Serve them with crispy sweet potato fries or a refreshing corn maque choux for a true Louisiana experience. A cold potato salad or tangy vinegar slaw will also balance the richness of the crawfish mixture. Perfect for Mardi Gras gatherings, game day parties, or summer cookouts, these sliders are easy to prepare and impossible to resist. With each bite, you’ll be transported to a New Orleans backyard, where the cast-iron skillet is hot, the seafood is fresh, and the spices dance.

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Louisiana-Style Crawfish Pistolette: A Cajun Comfort Classic

If you’ve never had a pistolette before, you’re in for a true Southern treat. These golden, crusty rolls are hollowed out, filled with a savory stuffing, and baked or fried to perfection. Think of them as miniature stuffed bread loaves bursting with flavor. One of the most beloved varieties hails straight from Cajun country—Crawfish Pistolettes. This recipe from LouisianaCookin delivers all the boldness of Louisiana cuisine, combining spicy sausage, juicy crawfish tails, and creamy cheese in a rich, flavorful filling tucked inside a buttery roll.

Perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish is easy to scale. The recipe makes a generous batch, but you can easily halve it or freeze the extras for a ready-to-go meal later. Just pop them in the oven and reheat when a craving hits. Pistolettes are small, French-style bread rolls—typically about 2 ounces each—that are often fried or baked after being stuffed. In Cajun and Creole cooking, they’re usually filled with seafood-based mixtures like crawfish or shrimp, though some versions feature chicken or boudin. In this baked version, we’re keeping things simple yet indulgent by skipping the frying and finishing with a brush of garlic butter for irresistible flavor and golden color.

Ingredients for the crawfish pistolette:

Directions for cooking the pistolette:

  1. Slice off about the top quarter of each roll and set the tops aside. Gently scoop out a portion of the bread from inside each roll, creating space for the filling.
  2. Set your oven to 425°F so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Mix in the green onions, Creole seasoning, parsley, oregano, and chili powder. Stir until the mixture is evenly seasoned. Next, add the can of golden mushroom soup and blend well. Pour in the crawfish along with their liquid. Add the cheese cubes and stir until they melt into the mixture—this should take 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully spoon the hot filling into each hollowed-out roll. Don’t overfill or the mixture may spill over during baking. Replace the tops of the rolls.
  5. Brush the tops of the rolls with melted garlic butter. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.

Crawfish pistolettes are rich and hearty, so they pair best with lighter sides. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can help balance the richness. For a Southern twist, serve alongside coleslaw or roasted okra. If you’re going all-in with Cajun flair, try a side of dirty rice or a bowl of creamy corn maque choux.

Crawfish Pistolettes are more than just a snack—they’re a bold, flavorful celebration of Louisiana’s culinary traditions. With their spicy, creamy filling and buttery crust, they’re sure to impress family and guests alike. Whether you’re making them for a Mardi Gras party, a family potluck, or a casual dinner at home, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

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Stuffed Crawfish Bisque: The Ultimate Seafood Dish

Crawfish bisque is one of the most treasured dishes in Louisiana’s rich culinary tradition. Unlike a simple soup or stew, this dish is a labor of love, packed with bold Cajun flavors and featuring stuffed crawfish heads that add an unmistakable depth to the bisque. This recipe from Louisiana Cookin takes some time and effort, but the end result is a deeply satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

This dish combines a velvety roux-based sauce with tender crawfish tails and a medley of fresh vegetables and seasonings. The true hallmark of an authentic bisque is the stuffed crawfish heads, which add an extra layer of complexity to the dish. The heads are filled with a savory mixture of crawfish tails, breadcrumbs, and aromatic seasonings, then baked to perfection before being simmered in the bisque. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, this dish is a true celebration of Louisiana’s seafood bounty.

Ingredients:

  • 60 crawfish heads, cleaned
  • 3 pounds cooked crawfish tails
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2½ cups minced and 1½ cups diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • ½ cup diced green bell pepper
  • ½ cup minced green bell pepper
  • 1 cup sliced green onions
  • 4 tablespoons minced garlic
  • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 to 3 quarts shellfish stock
  • ¼ cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups seasoned Italian bread crumbs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • Steamed white rice, to serve
  • Granulated garlic, kosher salt, & ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and continue stirring constantly to create a rich, dark brown roux. This process should take approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Be patient and vigilant—burning the roux can ruin the dish.
  2. Once the roux reaches the desired color, add in the diced onions, celery, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook until the vegetables soften and release their flavors, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Next, stir in the crawfish tails and tomato sauce, mixing well to incorporate all the flavors. Gradually pour in the shellfish stock, stirring continuously to create a thick, sauce-like consistency. If the bisque becomes too thick during cooking, additional stock can be added as needed. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
  4. For the Stuffed Crawfish Heads, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a food processor, combine the cooked crawfish tails, minced onions, celery, bell peppers, parsley, and garlic. Pulse for about 30 seconds until finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the beaten eggs and gradually add the seasoned breadcrumbs, just enough to bind the mixture together. Season with salt, pepper, and granulated garlic to taste.
  5. Fill each cleaned crawfish head with the prepared stuffing mixture, pressing gently to secure the filling. Any remaining stuffing can be set aside and stirred into the bisque. Arrange the stuffed crawfish heads on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
  6. Gently stir in the stuffed crawfish heads. Allow the bisque to simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the crawfish from settling at the bottom and burning.
  7. Once the bisque has thickened and all the flavors have melded together, add the sliced green onions and fresh parsley. Season with salt, black pepper, and granulated garlic to taste. Serve the bisque over steamed white rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

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Gulf Coast Delight: How to Make Crawfish Cornbread

If you’re seeking a mouthwatering dish that embodies the heart of Southern cuisine, look no further than this recipe for Crawfish Cornbread from LouisianaCookin. Bursting with flavors from the Gulf Coast, this cornbread marries the richness of crawfish with the comforting texture of classic cornbread. It’s a dish that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a hearty side to a soulful meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound cooked crawfish tail meat
  • ½ red bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1¾ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups yellow cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • ¼ cup bacon drippings
  • 1¼ cups unsalted butter, divided
  • ¼ cup salted butter, melted
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 tablespoon plus ½ teaspoon plus 1 pinch salt, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare Skillet: Begin by placing a deep 10-inch cast-iron skillet in your oven. Preheat the oven to a scorching 450°F. This high heat ensures a crisp crust on your cornbread.
  2. Prepare Crawfish: Place your crawfish tails in a colander to drain. Gently squeeze them to remove any excess liquid, which helps prevent a soggy texture in the cornbread.
  3. Cook Vegetables and Crawfish: In a medium skillet, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium-high heat until it starts to foam. Add the chopped red bell pepper, thinly sliced green onions, a pinch of salt, and ground black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper softens, which should take about 5 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon salt, the ground black pepper, and the crushed red pepper, and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the spices to release their flavors. Stir in the crawfish tails and granulated garlic. Continue cooking until most of the moisture evaporates, roughly another 5 minutes.
  5. Melt Butter: In a small microwave-safe bowl, place 7 tablespoons of unsalted butter and melt it in the microwave on high for about 45 seconds. Set this aside for later use.
  6. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and the remaining tablespoon of salt. Gradually stir in the whole milk and honey, ensuring a smooth mixture. Add the melted unsalted butter and beaten egg, stirring until everything is well combined. Finally, fold in the crawfish mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
  7. Prepare Skillet for Baking: Carefully remove the hot cast-iron skillet from the oven and place it over high heat. Add the bacon drippings and let it cook until it begins to smoke slightly. This step infuses the cornbread with a smoky flavor. Add the remaining ¼ cup of unsalted butter to the skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides thoroughly.
  8. Bake Cornbread: Pour the batter into the hot skillet, smoothing the top with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Reserve the last tablespoon of unsalted butter for another use. Bake in the preheated oven until the cornbread turns a beautiful golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Once done, carefully turn the cornbread out onto a cutting board. Brush generously with the melted salted butter, cut into pieces, and serve hot.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Crawfish Cornbread is a versatile dish that pairs well with various Southern favorites. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

  • Collard Greens: A traditional Southern side, collard greens cooked with ham hocks or bacon add a savory depth that complements the cornbread.
  • Fried Catfish: Crispy fried catfish with a squeeze of lemon makes a delightful main course paired with the rich cornbread.
  • Red Beans and Rice: This hearty dish is perfect with the spicy and savory notes of the Crawfish Cornbread.
  • Southern Slaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery cornbread.

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Elevate Your Appetizer Game with these Delicious Crawfish Rolls

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Louisiana with this meticulously crafted Crawfish Rolls recipe from Louisiana Cookin. This beloved Southern dish encapsulates the essence of Cajun cuisine, combining tender crawfish tails, crisp vegetables, and zesty remoulade within a warm, buttered bun. Through this recipe, you’ll aim to celebrate the rich tapestry of flavors that define Louisiana’s culinary heritage, inviting you to explore the artistry of Cajun cookingin the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Begin by heating a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crawfish tails, allowing them to cook until the liquid has evaporated, approximately 5 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the crawfish to the refrigerator, allowing them to chill for a minimum of 1 hour.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chilled crawfish with sliced celery, creamy mayonnaise, minced red onion, freshly squeezed lemon juice, this bespoke Cajun Seasoning blend, and aromatic celery seed. Gently fold the ingredients together until fully incorporated, creating a luscious filling for our rolls. Refrigerate the mixture until it’s ready to grace your taste buds.
  3. Assemble your Crawfish Rolls with care and precision. Line each buttered and toasted hot dog bun with tender butter lettuce leaves, providing a refreshing contrast to the flavorful filling. Generously scoop approximately ½ cup of the chilled crawfish mixture onto each bun, ensuring every bite is brimming with Louisiana goodness. For a final flourish, garnish with freshly sliced chives, adding a pop of color and flavor to your masterpiece. Serve immediately and watch as your guests marvel at your culinary prowess.
  4. Crafting the Cajun Seasoning: Enhance your culinary prowess with this signature Cajun Seasoning blend. In a small bowl, amalgamate chili powder, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and white pepper. This harmonious blend encapsulates the essence of Cajun cuisine, infusing each bite with an explosion of flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for future culinary endeavors.

Side Dishes:

To complement the bold flavors of these Crawfish Rolls, consider serving them alongside classic Southern sides such as:

Creamy Coleslaw: Indulge in the crisp freshness of these Creamy Coleslaw, a classic Southern side that perfectly balances the richness of the Crawfish Rolls. Shredded cabbage and grated carrot are enveloped in a creamy dressing infused with tangy apple cider vinegar and a touch of sweetness from honey.

Cajun Corn Salad: Transport your taste buds to the bayous of Louisiana with this Cajun Corn Salad, a vibrant medley of flavors that complements the spiciness of the Crawfish Rolls.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Satisfy your cravings for comfort food with these Crispy Sweet Potato Fries, a mouthwatering side dish that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the Crawfish Rolls.

In conclusion, this Crawfish Rolls recipe offers a tantalizing journey through the heart of Louisiana cuisine. With each bite, experience the vibrant flavors and soulful essence that define Cajun cooking. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude, this dish promises to elevate any dining experience. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the spirit of the bayou, and embark on a culinary adventure like no other.

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A Spicy Crawfish Twist on Classic Lasagna

When you think of lasagna, visions of layers upon layers of cheesy, saucy goodness might dance in your head. Now, imagine taking that classic comfort dish to the next level by infusing it with the bold flavors of the bayou. This recipe for Crawfish Lasagna, a creation by the culinary wizard Jason Derouen, also known as The Cajun Ninja, is here to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more, as per this Louisiana Cookin recipe. This dish might not sound as enticing as it truly is, but trust us, once you’ve experienced the symphony of flavors, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Begin your culinary journey by melting a half stick of butter in a large pan over medium-low heat. Let the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery sauté for a tantalizing 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and sauté for another 10 minutes.
  2. Introduce the diced tomatoes into the mix, letting them dance in the pan for an additional 10 minutes. Now, it’s time to add the pièce de résistance – the crawfish tails, minced garlic, and the unforgettable Pi-YAHHHHH!! Seasoning. Allow this flavorful medley to sauté for another 10 minutes.
  3. While your crawfish concoction is reaching perfection, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season it generously with salt and cook your lasagna noodles for 9 minutes. Drain, reserving some pasta water, which will come in handy later to keep the noodles perfectly textured.
  4. Blend the cream cheese into the crawfish mixture until it becomes a velvety masterpiece. Sprinkle in the Parmesan, ensuring an even distribution, and turn off the heat.
  5. In a separate bowl, create a luscious mixture by combining the cream of mushroom soup, fresh parsley, and dried basil. Preheat your oven to a toasty 350°F. Spray the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  6. Prepare for the layering extravaganza! Move the crawfish mixture to one side of the pan, allowing the liquid gold sauce to pool on the other. Use this saucy goodness to coat the bottom of your baking dish. Layer with one-third of the lasagna noodles, one-third of the soup mixture, one-third of the crawfish magic, and one-third of the tantalizing Havarti and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat these layers twice, starting with the noodles.
  7. Slide your creation into the preheated oven and let it bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the sides of the dish are bubbling with anticipation. As the aromas waft through your kitchen, exercise patience. Let your masterpiece cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with a sprinkle of additional seasoning, if desired.
  8. Finally, savor each mouthful of this Spicy Crawfish Extravaganza Lasagna – a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. Prepare for compliments and inquiries about the recipe; this dish is a showstopper!

As you savor each bite of this Spicy Crawfish Extravaganza Lasagna, let it be a reminder that culinary adventures are boundless, and the joy of creating something extraordinary in the kitchen is a reward in itself. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe invites you to embrace the spirit of Louisiana and embark on a journey where every bite tells a tale of the bayou. So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and let the magic of Crawfish Lasagna unfold in your kitchen.

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