Description
This Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe brings bold, smoky flavors with a perfect hint of spice, making it a quick and delicious meal option. Ready in just 11 minutes, these shrimp are coated with a flavorful blend of paprika, garlic, onion, herbs, and cayenne pepper, then seared to perfection in a hot skillet. Serve alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or use in tacos for a versatile and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
- Coat the shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in the seasoning blend until each piece is thoroughly coated with the spices, ensuring maximum flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet on the stove over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking, which will give the shrimp a good sear.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until the shrimp turn pink and develop a slightly charred crust, then flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and serve immediately. These blackened shrimp pair wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or can be used as a filling in tacos for a flavorful meal.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp; if frozen, thaw thoroughly and pat dry before seasoning.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all spice blends are certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American