Baked Cajun Shrimp is a delicious and spicy dish that’s super easy to make! Fresh shrimp is tossed in bold Cajun spices and baked to perfection, giving it a tasty kick.
This dish makes for a fun meal, especially when you serve it with some rice or crusty bread. I can’t help but dance a little while waiting for it to bake—it’s that good! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are perfect for this recipe. You can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry. If you’re allergic, consider using chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces for a different take.
Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices, ideally with paprika, cayenne, and garlic. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne. You can also make it milder by using less cayenne.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both add richness; I prefer olive oil for its health benefits. If dairy-free, stick with olive oil. You can also use avocado oil for high heat cooking.
Fresh Parsley: This is great for garnish, adding a pop of color. If you don’t have it, cilantro is a nice alternative, or skip it entirely if you’re not a fan of these herbs.
How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here’s how to ensure they turn out just right:
- Preheat the oven properly; a hot oven ensures nice caramelization.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking dish. Each shrimp needs space to cook evenly.
- Look for that opaque color – once they turn from gray to pink, they’re done.
- Don’t overcook! Even a minute too long can make shrimp rubbery.
Stick to these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked baked Cajun shrimp every time!
Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
For the Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 8-10 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 20 minutes getting this flavorful dish on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp will cook evenly and get a nice, flavorful sear.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large mixing bowl, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Pour in the olive oil or melted butter and toss until all the shrimp are nicely coated.
3. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a separate small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous), salt, and pepper. Mix it well!
4. Season the Shrimp:
Sprinkle your homemade seasoning mix over the shrimp. Toss everything together again until the shrimp are fully coated in the spicy goodness.
5. Arrange and Bake:
Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque and curl slightly. Be careful not to overcook!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish your shrimp with the freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for that zesty kick!
Enjoy your baked Cajun shrimp with steamed rice, a slice of crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a quick and delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for better seasoning adherence.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also add a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the heat or mix in a bit of lemon juice for brightness without the spice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover baked Cajun shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, taking care not to overcook them again.
What Should I Serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
Baked Cajun shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, alongside crusty bread for dipping, or with a fresh green salad. You could also offer some mixed vegetables for a complete meal.
