Cajun Blackened Shrimp is a spicy and tasty dish that brings a little kick to your meal. The shrimp are coated in a zesty blend of spices and then seared to perfection!
These shrimp are so flavorful that you might find yourself doing a little happy dance while cooking! I love serving them with rice or in tacos for a fun twist. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best since they hold up well to the high heat. If you can’t find large ones, medium shrimp will work too! For a change, try using scallops or firm fish like snapper.
Spices: Paprika is key for that beautiful color and flavor. If you want a twist, try smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste. Don’t have cayenne? A pinch of hot sauce can substitute for some heat!
Oil or Butter: I usually use olive oil for a healthier option, but melted butter gives a rich flavor if you’re in the mood for it. You can also use avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and is great for high-heat cooking.
How Do You Get Perfectly Blackened Shrimp?
The secret to blackened shrimp is the high heat and a good sear! Here’s how to get that delicious crust:
- Make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the shrimp. This helps create that amazing blackened effect.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed, as this ensures even cooking and allows the shrimp to caramelize.
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning—this helps the spices stick and creates a nice crust.
- Keep an eye on the cook time—around 4 minutes total will keep them tender and juicy.
These tips will help you achieve that restaurant-quality blackened shrimp at home! Enjoy cooking!
Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 lemon, halved (for garnish and squeezing over shrimp)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 4-5 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes to create your Cajun seasoning blend. Stir until well combined.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take your shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important for getting a nice sear! Place the shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over them. Toss the shrimp to make sure they’re evenly coated.
3. Season the Shrimp:
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mixture over the shrimp. Toss them again to ensure each shrimp is coated generously in spices. You want them to be packed with flavor!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes without moving them around until they start to blacken. Then, flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re fully cooked and opaque.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice from the halved lemon. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful, spicy Cajun Blackened Shrimp! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for this Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them first. The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can run them under cold water for a few minutes until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Paprika?
If you’re out of paprika, you can use ancho chili powder for a slightly smoky flavor or a mix of cayenne pepper and a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness of paprika. Just adjust the cayenne if you want to control the heat!
How to Store Leftover Cajun Blackened Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking and drying them out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add additional crushed red pepper flakes. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce if you want an extra kick!
