Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
If you love bold, vibrant flavors that come together in a flash, then this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new go-to dish. Succulent shrimp coated with a smoky, spicy blackened seasoning and finished with garlic butter and a bright lemon squeeze create a mouthwatering experience every time. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 15 minutes, this dish brings a burst of Southern flair to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, the Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe promises a delicious celebration on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe comes from simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s the fresh shrimp providing a tender bite, the blackened seasoning delivering that signature smoky spice, or the garlic butter adding richness and aroma.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined shrimp are the perfect canvas for bold Cajun flavors and cook rapidly for quick meals.
- Blackened seasoning (2 tbsp): This blend of spices creates the iconic crust—feel free to use your favorite store-bought mix or craft your own homemade version for personalized heat.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps to sear the shrimp perfectly without sticking, adding a smooth richness to the cooking process.
- Unsalted butter (1 tbsp): Adds creamy indulgence when melted with garlic, balancing the spice beautifully.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Brings a fragrant, savory depth that enhances the buttery sauce with every bite.
- Fresh lemon juice (for garnish): A bright splash that cuts through the richness and elevates the dish with fresh acidity.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a touch of herbal brightness to finish your plate elegantly.
How to Make Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks perfectly. Then, generously coat both sides of the shrimp with your blackened seasoning. This step is key because the seasoning forms the bold, smoky crust that defines this dish.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. The oil will help achieve that lovely sear and prevent the shrimp from sticking or burning, setting you up for perfect blackened shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and develop that beautiful blackened crust. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. This quick sear seals in the flavors and keeps the shrimp juicy.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the butter along with the minced garlic. Cook for about one minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and soft, infusing the butter with its irresistible aroma. This step adds luscious richness to the dish and ties all the flavors together.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlicky butter sauce. Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a lively, fresh finish that brightens the bold Cajun spices perfectly.
How to Serve Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley are the ideal garnishes for this dish. The acidity from the lemon lifts the smoky spices, while parsley adds a pop of green freshness that makes the dish visually inviting and vibrant to the palate.
Side Dishes
This shrimp pairs wonderfully with crispy French bread to soak up every bit of buttery sauce. For a more wholesome meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad for balance. Roasted or grilled vegetables also complement the smoky flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shrimp over warm tortillas with avocado slices and a drizzle of sour cream for Cajun shrimp tacos. You can also toss the shrimp into pasta dishes or fresh grain bowls for a hearty, flavorful boost that impresses any crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool leftover shrimp to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to two days. Keep the garlic butter sauce in the container to maintain flavor and moisture.
Freezing
While shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, leftover cooked blackened shrimp can be frozen for up to one month. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag to prevent clumping and preserve texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat shrimp in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a little extra butter or oil if needed to keep them moist. Avoid the microwave, which can make shrimp rubbery. Once warmed through, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry to get the best crust when blackening. Excess moisture can interfere with searing and cause steaming instead.
What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the cayenne to control the heat level to your taste.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe carries a moderate spice level thanks to the blackened seasoning, but you can customize it easily. Use less cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder dish, or add more for extra kick.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Absolutely! This seasoning and method work wonderfully with fish fillets like catfish, salmon, or even scallops. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your blackened seasoning does not contain wheat-based fillers. Always check labels or prepare your seasoning blend at home to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about the simplicity and bold flavors of this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe. It brings together the smoky, spicy charm of Cajun cooking without any complicated steps or ingredients, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to impress. Give it a try—you might find this recipe becoming a fast favorite for weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike!
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Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, crispy shrimp cooked in a hot skillet with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Garnished with fresh lemon juice and parsley, these shrimp have a bold, smoky flavor that pairs well with rice, salad, or your favorite side.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce and Garnish
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh lemon juice, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with the blackened seasoning, ensuring each shrimp is coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a dark, blackened crust. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss well to coat them with the garlic butter sauce. Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is very hot before adding shrimp to achieve the signature blackened crust.
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for easy cooking and eating.
- If you do not have store-bought blackened seasoning, you can make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Serve with rice, grits, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Adjust the heat of the seasoning to taste by reducing or increasing cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
