If you’re craving a burst of bold, smoky flavors with tender, juicy shrimp cooked to perfection, this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s incredibly simple yet packed with vibrant spices that create that signature blackened crust, making every bite a delightful adventure. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish brings a perfect balance of heat, aroma, and freshness that’s hard to beat. And the best part? It comes together quickly, so you get maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but key to creating that irresistible Cajun blackened flavor. Each spice and seasoning plays a unique role, enhancing both the taste and the visual appeal of the shrimp. You’ll love how simple pantry staples transform into a standout dish.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish, providing that spicy, smoky foundation.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a lovely smoky note without any extra heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a mellow garlic flavor that complements the spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory background for more complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthiness that balances the spiciness.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbal brightness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite that wakes up the palate.
- Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens and lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels; this is a simple step that makes a huge difference. Removing excess moisture ensures the shrimp will blacken beautifully instead of steaming. Once dry, toss them with olive oil to create a perfect base for the spices to cling to.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This blend is the soul of the Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe, delivering that iconic robust flavor profile. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the shrimp and toss until each one is fully coated. This seasoning not only flavors the shrimp but will also create that gorgeous blackened crust that’s so irresistible. Don’t be shy to get your hands in there for an even coating.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot—this is key to achieving the perfect blackened effect. Place the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they develop a dark, spicy crust and turn opaque in the center. Remove promptly to avoid overcooking.
How to Serve Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are the classic garnish, adding a fresh and zesty contrast to the smoky heat. You can also toss over chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and an herbal lift. These small touches can elevate your presentation and flavor profile without much effort.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Steamed white rice lets the shrimp shine as the star, while a crisp green salad adds a refreshing crunch. For a more indulgent meal, creamy grits or buttery corn on the cob provide a comforting base that soaks up the spices perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t just serve this shrimp on a plate—get creative! Fill warm tortillas for spicy shrimp tacos topped with avocado and a drizzle of sour cream. Toss them into pasta for a Cajun seafood pasta dish, or layer them over a colorful grain bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a tangy dressing. The versatility of this recipe means you can enjoy it in many inspiring ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that shrimp tastes best when enjoyed fresh, but proper storage can keep the flavors intact for a quick second meal.
Freezing
While this recipe shines best fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp if needed. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for about 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave briefly. Avoid overheating as shrimp can become rubbery. A quick reheat preserves the delicious blackened crust and juicy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This will help you achieve that perfect blackened crust.
How spicy is this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and balanced, but you can easily adjust it by adding cayenne pepper for more heat or reducing the Cajun seasoning if you prefer something milder.
What if I don’t have all the individual spices?
No worries! You can use pre-made Cajun seasoning as a convenient shortcut. Just be mindful of the salt content and adjust accordingly.
Can I cook this shrimp on a grill instead of a skillet?
Yes, grilling works great! Just make sure your grill is hot and clean, and cook the shrimp quickly on each side to keep the juicy texture and charred flavor.
What are some good alternatives to shrimp in this recipe?
You can try this seasoning on fish fillets like tilapia or catfish, chicken tenders, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. The spice blend is versatile and delicious across many proteins.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe is truly a fantastic way to bring bold, vibrant flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a dish that feels special without a lot of fuss. Give it a try and watch this flavorful, smoky shrimp become one of your favorite go-to meals!
Print
Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp coated in a bold blend of Cajun spices and seared in a hot skillet to achieve a perfectly blackened crust. Ready in just 16 minutes, this quick and flavorful main course is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of citrus that complements the spicy, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps in achieving a nice blackened crust when cooking.
- Coat with Olive Oil: In a bowl, toss the dried shrimp with olive oil until they are evenly coated; this helps the seasoning stick and prevents sticking during cooking.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful blackening spice blend.
- Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled shrimp and toss well until each shrimp is fully coated with the spice blend.
- Heat Pan: Place a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and allow it to become very hot before adding the shrimp; a hot pan is crucial for proper blackening.
- Cook Shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without moving them to develop the blackened crust.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Turn the shrimp over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they are blackened on the outside and opaque in the center.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the shrimp from the pan and serve right away with optional lemon wedges to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- This blackened shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, over fresh salads, inside tacos, or served as an appetizer.
- Using pre-made Cajun seasoning simplifies the recipe and saves time.
- Ensure the pan is very hot before adding shrimp to achieve the best blackened effect.
