These Baked Cajun Shrimp are bursting with flavor, thanks to a tasty blend of spices! They’re quick to make, healthy, and perfect for a fun dinner.
Don’t be surprised if you eat a whole plate yourself—they’re just that good! I love serving them with rice to soak up all that yummy juice. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for this dish, but you can also use medium-sized shrimp or even shrimp that are frozen. Just thaw them and they’re ready to cook!
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer olive oil for a lighter taste, but melted butter adds a nice richness. You can use avocado oil if you’re looking for a high smoke point oil.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own with spices like paprika, thyme, oregano, and cayenne. Adjust the level of spice to your taste preference!
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a delicious depth of flavor, but regular paprika works too. If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley on hand, cilantro can be a fun substitute.
How Do I Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp?
Cheers to perfectly cooked shrimp! They can turn rubbery quickly if cooked too long. Here’s how to nail that tender texture:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so the shrimp cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. They usually take about 8-10 minutes.
- Check for doneness when they turn pink and opaque. Pull them out right away to let carryover cooking finish the job!
With these tips, you’ll have succulent shrimp every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, you can easily prepare everything else!
2. Prepare the Spice Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil (or melted butter), Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade that will make your shrimp pop with taste!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Gently toss the shrimp in the spice mixture, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. This is where all that yummy flavor starts!
4. Arrange the Shrimp:
Next, take your baking dish and arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice baked texture!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Just be careful not to overcook them—no one likes rubbery shrimp!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color! Squeeze some lemon wedges over them to brighten the flavors before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious baked Cajun shrimp warm with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy the burst of flavors!
These Baked Cajun Shrimp are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp first. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before mixing with the spices.
Can I Substitute the Cajun Seasoning?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, use a mix of paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder to create a similar flavor profile. Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the shrimp in the microwave or on the stovetop. Be cautious not to overcook them again to maintain their tenderness.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños to the spice mix. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce before serving can amp up the spice factor!
