These Cajun Blackened Shrimp are packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp are coated in a spicy, smoky seasoning and cooked to perfection. It’s like a party in your mouth!
Whenever I make this dish, my family can’t get enough. They love that it’s quick to whip up, and I enjoy serving it over rice or with a fresh salad. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use scallops or even firm white fish like cod. Just adjust cooking times since these ingredients may vary.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives the dish its distinctive smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, though you’ll miss the smokiness. A bit of cumin can add some depth if you want to explore different flavors.
Cayenne Pepper: Spice level can be customized here! If cayenne is too spicy, consider using paprika to keep some heat yet keep it milder. For a kick without heat, try a dash of black pepper or even a pinch of ground ginger for interesting flavor.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Without Overcooking Them?
Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky! The key is to keep an eye on them while they cook. Follow these steps:
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps them sear quickly and develop that lovely crust.
- Cook shrimp just until they turn opaque. Typically, about 2 minutes per side is enough.
- Remove them from the pan right when they’re cooked to avoid rubbery texture. They’ll continue to cook a bit off the heat.
With these tips in hand, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 5-6 minutes to cook the shrimp. In just about 15-20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This is your flavorful Cajun seasoning blend!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take your shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick better and gives a nice sear while cooking!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
In a bowl, drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the shrimp. Toss them gently until they are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mixture over the shrimp and toss again until every shrimp is well coated with that spicy goodness.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Preheat a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan on medium-high heat. Make sure it’s really hot so you can get that nice blackened crust on the shrimp.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—if you have too many shrimp, you may need to cook them in batches. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until you see a blackened edge starting to form.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until they turn opaque and are cooked through. They’re ready when they curl slightly and have that lovely blackened color!
7. Serve:
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
These Cajun Blackened Shrimp are fantastic served over rice, creamy grits, or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy your flavorful, spicy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they cook properly.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work, but the dish may lack that smoky flavor. You can also add a bit of ground cumin or a splash of liquid smoke to mimic the smokiness.
Can I Prepare the Shrimp in Advance?
While it’s best to cook this dish fresh for the perfect flavor and texture, you can prepare the seasoning mix and coat the shrimp a few hours ahead of time. Store the seasoned shrimp in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
