Cajun Blackened Shrimp is a zesty and flavorful dish that’s sure to brighten up your meal. It features shrimp coated in a bold blend of spices, seared to perfection!
Cooking this dish always makes my kitchen smell amazing! I love serving it over rice or with some fresh veggies. It’s quick, easy, and oh so tasty—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Go for large, fresh shrimp for the best taste. If you’re allergic or have dietary preferences, you can substitute with firm fish like salmon or chicken pieces, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well for this recipe. I usually use olive oil for a lighter touch, but melted butter adds great richness. If you want dairy-free, stick with oil!
Cayenne Pepper: This gives the dish its kick! If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to reduce the amount or swap in sweet paprika for milder flavor. A pinch of chili powder could also work.
How Do I Get That Perfect Blackened Crust?
Creating a blackened crust is key for flavor! Start with a hot pan—cast iron is your friend here. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your pan is preheated. A few drops of water should sizzle instantly.
- Spread the shrimp out—this helps them cook evenly!
- Don’t move them around too much! Let them sit for 2 minutes until they get that nice crust.
- When flipping, do so gently to keep the crust intact.
Trust the process, and you’ll end up with lovely, charred shrimp full of flavor!
How to Make Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This is your flavorful Cajun seasoning that will make your shrimp delicious!
2. Season the Shrimp:
Use paper towels to pat the shrimp dry. This helps the seasoning stick better. Then, in a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter until they’re nicely coated.
3. Coat with Cajun Seasoning:
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the shrimp. Give them a good toss to ensure all the shrimp are well coated in that yummy spice blend.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s very hot—this helps achieve that beautiful blackened crust!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without moving for about 2 minutes, allowing the seasoning to form a dark crust. Then, flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they turn opaque and are cooked through.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the shrimp from the heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze over the shrimp!
Enjoy your spicy, smoky, and delicious Cajun Blackened Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight, or you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for faster thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper in the seasoning blend or omit it altogether. You can also substitute it with a milder spice, like smoked paprika, for added flavor without the heat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun Blackened Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook to maintain their tenderness.
What Should I Serve with Cajun Blackened Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta to soak up the delicious flavors. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!