Cajun Blackened Shrimp is a zesty and tasty dish that brings the heat! The shrimp are coated in a special blend of spices, then cooked till they’re perfectly charred and full of flavor.
Honestly, these shrimp are irresistible! I like to serve them with rice or in a taco. Just a few minutes on the stove, and you’ve got a meal that’ll make your taste buds dance! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best results. If you’re allergic to shellfish or don’t like shrimp, try chicken or tofu! They can still take the blackening seasoning well.
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer butter for its rich flavor, but olive oil works too. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, go for avocado oil.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine. You can also adjust the cayenne for more or less heat based on your spice tolerance.
Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish, but you could substitute with cilantro for a different flavor. Don’t skip the herbs; they really brighten the dish!
How Do You Get the Perfect Blackened Flavor?
Getting that perfect blackened shrimp flavor comes down to a hot pan and patience. Here’s a quick guide:
- First, make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the shrimp. This will help create that beautiful char.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Crowding can trap steam, preventing that blackened crust.
- Let the shrimp cook on each side without moving them too much; this ensures a great sear. Flip them once for an even cook.
Following these tips will give you deliciously charred and flavorful shrimp every time!
Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp paprika (preferably smoked paprika)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 5 minutes of cooking time. In just about 15 minutes, you can have a delicious, spicy meal on the table!
Instructions:
1. Make the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and optional dried basil. Mix it all together to create a flavorful Cajun blackening seasoning.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives you a nice sear when cooking.
Drizzle the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil.
3. Season the Shrimp:
Sprinkle the Cajun blackening seasoning over the shrimp. Toss well until all the shrimp are coated with the spice mix. Make sure they are nicely covered for the best flavor!
4. Heat the Skillet:
Heat a cast iron skillet or a heavy pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. You can add a little oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking, but be careful as the seasoning might stick to the pan.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side without moving them. This way, the blackening spices will get nice and charred!
After 2 minutes, flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they turn opaque and are fully cooked through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the Cajun blackened shrimp immediately with your favorite sides: perhaps steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or even tucked into tacos with fresh toppings.
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy Cajun Blackened Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for quick thawing. Be sure to pat them dry afterward to help the seasoning stick!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing any spices, you can still make it work. For instance, you can substitute with Cajun seasoning if you have it on hand. If you need to, adjust the cayenne pepper to fit your taste — you can always add more for extra heat!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to serve the shrimp fresh, you can prepare the spice mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. If you have leftover shrimp, store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days and gently reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of butter or oil to rehydrate them a bit.
What Sides Pair Well with Cajun Blackened Shrimp?
Cajun Blackened Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try it with steamed rice, a fresh salad, sautéed vegetables, or even wrapped in warm tortillas for tacos. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative!
