Cajun Blackened Shrimp is a tasty dish that’s quick to make! Juicy shrimp are coated in bold spices and cooked until they’re perfectly blackened for a delicious kick.
Cooking this dish always makes my kitchen smell amazing! I love serving it over rice or tossing it in a salad. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for this recipe, but feel free to use medium-sized shrimp too. If you’re on a budget, you can also look for frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them before cooking for the best results.
Olive Oil or Butter: I suggest using melted butter for a richer flavor, but olive oil is a healthier option and works just as well. If you’re avoiding dairy, stick with olive oil or even avocado oil!
Spices: Paprika is essential for that distinctive flavor. Smoked paprika adds an extra depth, which I personally love! Cayenne pepper can be adjusted—use less for a milder taste or skip it altogether if you can’t handle the heat.
Herbs: I like using dried thyme and oregano for their flavor, but fresh herbs can brighten the dish. If you have fresh thyme or oregano, just use about three times the amount.
How Do I Get the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
The key to perfect blackened shrimp is to get your skillet really hot. A cast-iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat well, giving your shrimp that desirable blackened crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by combining your spices in a bowl—this is your Cajun seasoning.
- Pat the shrimp dry to help them sear better. Removing moisture is crucial for that crispy exterior.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking slightly. This high heat is what creates that nice crust.
- When you add the shrimp, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows each piece to sear properly.
- Cook for 2 minutes on each side. You want those edges to be crispy and slightly charred, so resist the urge to keep moving them!
Once done, serve them right away for the best taste. These shrimp pack a flavorful punch and are perfect for quick meals!
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 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 5-8 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal. In total, you’ll be enjoying your Cajun blackened shrimp in under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This flavorful blend is key to giving your shrimp that delicious Cajun kick!
2. Dry the Shrimp:
Using paper towels, pat the shrimp dry to get rid of any excess moisture. This helps the shrimp sear better and achieve that nice blackened crust.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the shrimp and toss them in a bowl until they are evenly coated. This will help the seasoning stick and enhance the flavor.
4. Season the Shrimp:
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mixture over the shrimp and toss well to make sure all the pieces are coated evenly. You’ll want every bite to be full of flavor!
5. Heat the Skillet:
Place your cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan over medium-high heat and let it heat up until it’s very hot. This is important for achieving that blackened effect.
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—if necessary, cook in batches. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they become opaque and develop a beautiful blackened crust. Try not to move them around too much while cooking to ensure they sear properly.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright touch. These shrimp are best served immediately!
8. Enjoy:
Serve your hot and spicy Cajun blackened shrimp over rice, alongside veggies, or tossed into a lovely salad for a meal that’ll surely impress. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! While the specific spices enhance the Cajun flavor, you can adjust to what you have. For a quick mix, try using a premade Cajun seasoning blend if available. Otherwise, feel free to omit cayenne for less heat or replace with chili powder.
How Should I Store Leftover Cajun Blackened Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook them to maintain tenderness!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the seasoning and clean the shrimp in advance. Just combine them and keep them in the fridge, ready to cook when you are! They’ll taste fantastic even if prepared shortly before serving.
