Baked Cajun Shrimp is a zesty and flavorful dish that’s super easy to make! With juicy shrimp coated in spicy Cajun seasoning, it’s perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a kick.
Honestly, my favorite part is how quick it is—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Serve it over rice or with some crusty bread, and you’ll be in seafood heaven. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this dish because they stay juicy and tender. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, feel free to use frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them before cooking!
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix gives the shrimp their signature flavor. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and Italian herbs can work as a substitute.
Butter and Olive Oil: The combo of these fats helps the shrimp cook evenly and adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use just olive oil or switch to coconut oil for a fun twist.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a nice touch of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or chives are good alternatives. Or skip it altogether for a simpler look!
How Do I Achieve Tender, Juicy Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. To keep them tender, watch the cooking time closely. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Coat the shrimp evenly with the Cajun seasoning mixture for a balanced flavor.
- Bake for just 8-10 minutes; you’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque.
- Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
With these tips, your Baked Cajun Shrimp will be perfect every time. Enjoy the bold, zesty flavors!
Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Cajun Shrimp takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to enjoy this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and perfectly!
2. Prepare the Cajun Butter Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir, then add in the minced garlic and fresh lemon juice. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bowl with the Cajun butter mixture. Toss the shrimp gently until they are completely coated with the flavorful mixture. Yum!
4. Arrange the Shrimp:
Take your prepared baking dish and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping, which helps them cook evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shrimp with chopped fresh parsley. Add lemon slices for a delightful touch. Serve immediately!
7. Enjoy!
These zesty, spicy Baked Cajun Shrimp are fantastic over steamed rice, with crusty bread, or alongside roasted vegetables. Dive in and enjoy the flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before using them in the recipe. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid adding extra moisture.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, you can customize the heat! If you prefer it milder, reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out entirely. For more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or even some diced jalapeños to the mix.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can quickly warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.