Introduction:
This Spicy Cajun Shrimp recipe is packed with bold flavors and a smoky kick, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
With a blend of Cajun spices like paprika, garlic, and cayenne, these shrimp are seared to perfection in just minutes.
Whether served as an appetizer, over rice, in tacos, or on top of a fresh salad, this dish is both easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
12 Shrimp Peeled, Deveined, Cooked
1 Canola Oil
1 Smoked Paprika
1 Onion Powder
1 Garlic Powder
1 ½ Salt
½ Cayenne Pepper
½ Thyme Leaves
¼ Ground Oregano
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350°. Place foil onto cookie sheet. Lightly oil the foil with cooking spray.
Place shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add oil to the bowl. Cover top of the bowl and gently shake until all of the shrimp is covered with the oil.
In a small bowl with a lid, mix all of the herbs and spices. Add the mixture to the shrimp bowl.
Cover the bowl and gently shake until all of the shrimp are covered with the seasonings.
In a single layer, place the shrimp onto the cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Serve warm with a slice of lemon wedge.
Variations & Tips:
Variations:
Grilled Version: Instead of pan-frying, grill the shrimp on skewers for a smoky BBQ flavor.
Butter Garlic Shrimp: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic at the end for a rich garlic butter twist.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp: Toss the cooked shrimp with a little heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy sauce.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Add bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet for a one-pan meal.
Mild Version: Omit the cayenne pepper for a kid-friendly dish.
Tips:
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works great too — just thaw completely before cooking.
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before seasoning to help the spices stick better.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook the shrimp in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
How to Store:
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until hot. Avoid microwaving as it can make shrimp rubbery.
Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 1 month in a sealed freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with white rice or Cajun dirty rice for a classic pairing.
Add on top of a mixed green salad with avocado and a lemon vinaigrette.
Use as a filling in tacos with slaw and spicy mayo.
Pair with garlic bread and roasted vegetables for a light dinner.
Toss with pasta and a creamy Cajun sauce for a hearty meal.
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Spicy Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the spices stick better.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can season the shrimp up to 4 hours in advance and store them in the fridge before cooking.
3. How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Don’t overcook them! Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Can I substitute the canola oil?
Absolutely! You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter for extra flavor.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a little kick from the cayenne pepper! For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne.
6. What can I serve with Cajun shrimp?
These shrimp pair perfectly with rice, salad, tacos, or grilled veggies.
Bonus Tip:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top before serving to balance the spicy flavors!
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