Baked Cajun Shrimp is a tasty dish that’s quick to make! Juicy shrimp are coated in spicy Cajun seasoning and then baked to perfection. It’s great served with rice or pasta!
I love how easy this recipe is. Just toss the shrimp with seasoning, pop them in the oven, and dinner is ready in no time. My family always comes back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are best for this recipe. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen shrimp work too—just make sure to thaw them first. I often recommend using wild-caught shrimp as they tend to have better flavor!
Olive Oil or Butter: You can use either olive oil for a lighter touch or melted butter for extra richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, stick with olive oil. Avocado oil is also a great alternative with a similar flavor profile.
Cajun Seasoning: This is what gives the dish its signature kick! If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper can work as a substitute. I like to adjust the spice level to my taste by adding more or less cayenne.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the flavor. While you can use garlic powder in a pinch, I strongly recommend using fresh for the best results. If you’re in a hurry, pre-minced garlic can save time.
How Can You Ensure Your Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Perfectly cooked shrimp are key to this dish. Overcooking can make them tough. To avoid that, follow these steps:
- Cook shrimp at a high temperature (400°F) for a short time (8-10 minutes). Keep an eye on them!
- Once shrimp are pink and opaque, take them out immediately. Remember, they cook quickly.
- For even cooking, make sure the shrimp are spread out in a single layer. Crowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking.
With these tips in mind, your Baked Cajun Shrimp will turn out juicy and full of flavor every time!
How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So in total, expect it to take about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and quickly, giving you that delicious, juicy outcome.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil or melted butter, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss them around until all the shrimp are well coated in the flavorful mixture.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Take a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet and arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. This will help them cook evenly and get that nice color.
5. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they turn pink and opaque! Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll become tough.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to enjoy those tasty juices!
Enjoy your delicious Baked Cajun Shrimp! It’s full of flavor and super easy to make—perfect for any occasion! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the fridge overnight or submerge them in a sealed bag in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own mix using equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the cayenne to control the spice level to your taste!
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at low heat or in a skillet for best results. Microwave reheating can make them tough, so it’s best to avoid that if possible.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus would all work well. Just chop them similar in size to the shrimp, toss them with the seasoning, and arrange everything in a single layer before baking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables used.
