These baked Cajun shrimp are a tasty treat with a bit of a kick! They are seasoned with bold Cajun spices, giving them a zesty flavor that’s hard to resist.
What’s great is how quick they are to make. Just pop them in the oven, and in no time, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for sharing—or maybe just for you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish due to their meaty texture. If fresh shrimp are not available, frozen shrimp is a great substitute; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Cajun seasoning: This seasoning blend brings a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it, you can make your own with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust it to your liking!
Olive oil or butter: Use olive oil for a lighter option, or melted butter for a richer flavor. You can also try ghee or avocado oil as alternatives. Both will work well with the seasoning.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and flavor. You can substitute it with cilantro for a different taste, or even leave it out if you’re in a pinch.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! Here are some tips to ensure they’re perfectly done:
- Be mindful of the cooking time—8-10 minutes is usually perfect. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
- They should be pink, opaque, and slightly curled when done. Keep an eye on them as they cook!
Using the right size shrimp helps too. Large shrimp have a bit more resistance, making it easier to avoid overcooking. Pairing them with Cajun spices adds an extra layer of flavor that you’ll enjoy!
Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish and optional juice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked Cajun shrimp recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus 10 minutes of cooking time. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, zesty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your shrimp cooks evenly and gets that lovely browned finish.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil (or melted butter), Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every shrimp gets a good coating of those delicious spices!
3. Prepare for Baking:
Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Lay them out so that they’re not overlapping, which helps them cook evenly.
4. Bake the Shrimp:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook—you want them to be pink, opaque, and slightly browned on top. Perfectly cooked shrimp are quick to make!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the baked shrimp with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately along with lemon slices on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy, and juicy baked Cajun shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure the spices stick well.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and some dried herbs like oregano and thyme. Adjust the spice level to your preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked Cajun shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you’re looking for more heat, simply add more cayenne pepper to your Cajun seasoning or include some chopped fresh jalapeños or other hot peppers in the mix before baking. Enjoy the extra kick!
