Cajun Fish Soup

Cajun Fish Soup is a bold and hearty dish inspired by the rustic flavors of Louisiana. Featuring tender chunks of white fish simmered in a spiced tomato broth with vegetables and Cajun seasoning, this soup is both comforting and deeply flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with robust Cajun spices for a flavor punch
• Healthy and full of lean protein and vegetables
• Easy to make in one pot
• Great for weeknight dinners or meal prep
• Customizable with different seafood or spice levels

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or catfish), cut into chunks
• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Celery, diced
• Bell pepper, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Cajun seasoning
• Crushed tomatoes
• Fish or chicken broth
• Bay leaf
• Fresh thyme (or dried)
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: hot sauce, green onions, fresh parsley

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Add bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavor.
5. Add fish chunks to the pot. Simmer gently for 6–8 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flaky.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or hot sauce as desired.
7. Remove bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Seafood Mix: Add shrimp, scallops, or crab along with the fish
• Smoky Twist: Stir in a little smoked paprika or andouille sausage
• Creamy Option: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for richness
• Spicy Lovers: Use extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce to turn up the heat
• Low Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of crusty bread

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Let cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish

FAQs

What type of fish works best in Cajun Fish Soup?

Firm white fish like cod, catfish, tilapia, or haddock work well because they hold up in the soup.

Is this soup very spicy?

It has a mild to medium kick, but you can adjust the heat with more or less Cajun seasoning or hot sauce.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the soup.

What can I serve with Cajun Fish Soup?

Crusty bread, rice, or cornbread are great options to soak up the flavorful broth.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, consider adding the fish just before serving to avoid overcooking.

How do I thicken the soup?

You can simmer it a bit longer uncovered or stir in a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, the base recipe is dairy-free. Just avoid adding cream or butter-based garnishes.

Is Cajun seasoning gluten-free?

Most store-bought Cajun seasonings are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use peeled and diced fresh tomatoes and simmer a bit longer to break them down.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep them in the fridge in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best quality.

Conclusion

Cajun Fish Soup is a bold, nourishing, and easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of the bayou to your kitchen. With its warming spices and flaky fish, it’s perfect for cool nights or whenever you crave something hearty and full of flavor.

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