
This Cajun Shrimp recipe is bursting with bold, spicy flavors and is ready in just 15 minutes! Juicy shrimp are coated in a smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning and seared to perfection in butter and garlic. Whether served over rice, in tacos, or with a side of cornbread, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in 15 minutes
✔ One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more flavor
✔ Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your liking
✔ Perfect for Any Meal – Great for rice bowls, pasta, tacos, or salads
Ingredients
For the Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust based on Cajun seasoning)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and mix well.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly crispy.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with lemon wedges for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
🍚 Over Rice: Serve over jasmine or Cajun dirty rice.
🌮 Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with shrimp, slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.
🥗 Salad: Toss over a fresh green salad for a protein boost.
🍝 Pasta: Mix with creamy Alfredo or garlic butter pasta.
🫓 With Bread: Serve with warm cornbread or garlic bread for dipping.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
Tips & Variations
🔥 Spicier Version: Add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes.
🦐 Frozen Shrimp? Thaw in cold water before cooking.
🥘 Grill It: Skewer shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
🌿 Herby Twist: Add fresh thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Sauté for 2 minutes over medium heat or microwave for 30 seconds.
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