The Shrimp Po Boy is an iconic sandwich hailing from the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana. Known for its crispy fried shrimp, fresh bread, and zesty accompaniments, the Po Boy is a beloved staple of New Orleans cuisine. When paired with a luscious Creamy Cajun Sauce, this sandwich transforms into an explosion of bold flavors that perfectly balance spicy, tangy, and savory notes. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch, a casual dinner, or a festive treat, this Shrimp Po Boy recipe with Creamy Cajun Sauce will bring a taste of the South right to your kitchen.
What Is a Shrimp Po Boy?
Originating from New Orleans, a Po Boy sandwich traditionally features fried seafood or roast beef served on a soft French bread loaf known as a “French roll.” The Shrimp Po Boy typically includes crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise or remoulade sauce, all piled generously inside the crusty, yet soft bread. The sandwich is famous for its satisfying crunch, fresh veggies, and vibrant flavors that capture the spirit of Louisiana’s food culture.
The Magic of Creamy Cajun Sauce
While classic Po Boys use remoulade or simple mayo, adding a Creamy Cajun Sauce takes this sandwich to the next level. This sauce is a blend of mayonnaise, spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder, with a hint of lemon juice or vinegar for brightness. It adds a smooth, spicy kick that perfectly complements the crunchy shrimp and fresh veggies. The creaminess balances the heat, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make an authentic Shrimp Po Boy with Creamy Cajun Sauce, gather these ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Buttermilk (for soaking)
- Cornmeal and flour (for coating)
- Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Onion powder
- Lemon juice or vinegar
- Hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper
For the Sandwich:
- French rolls or hoagie buns
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickles or pickled jalapeños (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shrimp Po Boy with Creamy Cajun Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for about 15-30 minutes. This tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating stick better. Meanwhile, mix the cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Step 2: Coat and Fry the Shrimp
Remove shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge them in the seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture. Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, usually about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, lemon juice, and hot sauce if using. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference. This sauce should be creamy with a noticeable kick of spice.
Step 4: Assemble the Po Boy
Slice the French rolls lengthwise but don’t cut all the way through. Spread a generous layer of the Creamy Cajun Sauce on both sides of the bread. Layer the crispy fried shrimp evenly, then add shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Shrimp Po Boy with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal. The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh while the shrimp are still crunchy and the sauce is vibrant.
Tips for the Perfect Po Boy
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp make a big difference in texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Fry shrimp in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure crispiness.
- Customize the sauce: Feel free to add more hot sauce or spices to the Creamy Cajun Sauce if you like it spicier.
- Choose good bread: A soft but sturdy French roll is key to holding all the fillings without getting soggy.
- Add pickled veggies: Pickles or pickled jalapeños add acidity and crunch that balance the richness.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Po Boy Recipe
This Shrimp Po Boy with Creamy Cajun Sauce perfectly marries Southern tradition with bold, modern flavors. It’s crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh all at once — a sandwich that’s easy to make yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Plus, it’s versatile; you can adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
If you love Southern food, seafood, or just a seriously satisfying sandwich, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Bring the flavors of New Orleans home and savor every bite of this classic Shrimp Po Boy with a creamy, spicy twist.