This Cajun Blackened Shrimp recipe is packed with bold flavors! With a nice, spicy seasoning, these shrimp are seared to a beautiful, smoky perfection that makes your taste buds dance.
Who knew something so easy could be so tasty? I love serving these with rice or fresh veggies. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests! 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here for a nice bite. You can use any size, but adjust cooking time if they’re smaller. If shrimp isn’t available, try scallops or firm white fish like tilapia.
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer butter for its rich flavor, but olive oil is a great choice for a lighter option. You can also use ghee if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds depth and a hint of smoke, which is fantastic for blackening. Regular paprika will work too, but you might miss out on that smokiness. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat to your dish! Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice, and you can always add more. If you want a milder flavor, consider using sweet paprika or chili powder instead.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
The trick lies in the cooking method, especially using high heat to create a flavorful crust. Start by ensuring your pan is hot enough before adding the shrimp.
- Pat the shrimp dry to help them sear instead of steam.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the shrimp in batches if needed to maintain high heat.
- Look for a dark, seared crust before flipping – this is where the flavor comes from!
When you achieve that dark caramelization, you’ll know you have done it right. Enjoy your perfectly blackened shrimp, bursting with flavor! 🌶️
How to Make Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tsp paprika (preferably smoked)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic option for a quick and delicious meal in just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cajun Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and white pepper. This blend will pack a flavorful punch to your shrimp!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important for getting that lovely sear! Then, toss the shrimp in olive oil or melted butter until they are nicely coated.
3. Season the Shrimp:
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mix evenly over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Place a heavy skillet or a cast-iron pan on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s really hot (about 3-5 minutes). You’re looking for a good sear, so make sure it’s hot enough!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan as this will cause steaming rather than searing. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they have a dark, flavorful crust and are cooked through (they will turn opaque).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately over cooked rice or with your favorite veggies for a delicious meal!
Enjoy the deep, smoky, and spicy flavors of this classic Cajun Blackened Shrimp! 🦐🌶️
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, or, for a quicker method, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Don’t forget to pat them dry before seasoning!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder shrimp, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. You can also omit it altogether or replace it with paprika for flavor without the heat. Conversely, if you love a spicy kick, feel free to add more cayenne or even a pinch of hot sauce to the shrimp before cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun Blackened Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat to maintain their texture, or microwave them briefly. Be careful not to overheat, as shrimp can become rubbery!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the Cajun spice blend ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a month. You can also clean and season the shrimp in advance, but cook them right before serving for the best texture and flavor.