Description
Cajun Style Shrimp with bold spices and succulent shrimp cooked to perfection. An easy, flavorful crowd-pleaser with a spicy kick!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off according to preference)
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) olive oil
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Start by patting the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This ensures proper searing rather than steaming. In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, tossing to coat evenly. Sprinkle half of the spice mixture over the shrimp and toss again until each piece is well-coated.
- Step 2: Heat Your Pan Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron for authentic results) over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to get very hot but not smoking. The proper temperature is crucial for developing that characteristic Cajun sear without burning the spices.
- Step 3: Cook the Shrimp Add the shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for approximately 2 minutes on the first side until you see a nice pink color with slight charring on the edges. Flip each shrimp and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the second side. Remove the shrimp to a clean plate and repeat with any remaining batches.
- Step 4: Create the Sauce Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for just 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the remaining spice mixture and stir to combine, allowing the spices to bloom in the hot butter for about 30 seconds.
- Step 5: Finish the Dish Return the shrimp to the pan along with any accumulated juices. Add the lemon juice and toss everything together, cooking for just 30 seconds more to coat the shrimp in the sauce and warm them through. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Garnish with the fresh chopped parsley, giving everything a final toss before serving your perfect Cajun Style Shrimp.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 300mg