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If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful seafood dish that comes together in no time, you’re going to love this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe. It’s packed with bold, smoky spices and the perfect hint of garlic butter that make these shrimp absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering experience that feels both special and effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together these simple ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a starring role in building the bold, smoky, and buttery flavors that define this dish. From the spicy blackened seasoning to the fresh vibrancy of lemon and parsley, every component adds texture, aroma, or depth of flavor.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp work perfectly as the star protein, offering tender, juicy bites.
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade): This spice blend, with its smoky paprika and warm cayenne, gives the shrimp that signature Cajun kick.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the shrimp develop a crispy, beautifully seared crust in the pan.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and melts into a luscious garlic butter sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a subtle bite that complements the spices.
- Fresh lemon juice, for garnish: A splash of brightness to balance the deep flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color to finish the dish.
How to Make Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels — this is key to getting that perfect blackened crust. Then, generously season both sides with your blackened seasoning. Don’t be shy here; the spices are what bring the bold Cajun character to the dish.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. You want your pan hot enough so the shrimp sizzle on contact, which locks in flavor and texture. A well-heated pan ensures the shrimp get that delicious char without sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet to give them space to sear properly. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and develop that irresistible blackened crust. Once done, remove them from the skillet so you can prepare the sauce in the same pan.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Into the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Let the butter melt completely and the garlic soften slightly — about one minute — so its fragrant aroma infuses the sauce without burning. This buttery, garlicky base is what elevates the shrimp from tasty to unforgettable.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter to coat every piece in luscious flavor. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkling chopped parsley for freshness and a beautiful pop of green. Now, you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley and lemon wedges not only enhance the presentation but also add fresh, bright notes that cut through the rich spices and butter. A little extra sprinkle of smoked paprika or a pinch of coarse sea salt on top can make it look like a professional dish.
Side Dishes
This shrimp pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, creamy grits, or even a crisp green salad to balance the heat. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make great accompaniments that soak up any leftover garlic butter sauce and complete the meal with texture and comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl by serving these blackened shrimp in warm tortillas with avocado and slaw for tacos, or over a buttery pasta for a quick Cajun pasta night. You can even skewer the shrimp for a fun appetizer option at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any shrimp left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the crust might soften a bit, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
Freezing
Although fresh is best, you can freeze cooked blackened shrimp in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw them gently in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, reheat the shrimp quickly in a hot skillet with a little olive oil or butter to bring back the crisp edges. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that wonderful blackened crust intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning so you get that perfect sear and blackened crust.
What can I use if I don’t have blackened seasoning?
You can mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This DIY blend works just as well and lets you adjust the heat level to your liking.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The blackened seasoning brings a moderate heat with smoky undertones. If you prefer it milder, reduce the cayenne or add less seasoning, but don’t skip it entirely — it’s the heart of the flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
While the shrimp are essential here, you can swap in firm tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based version. Just adjust cooking times and seasoning to suit the alternative ingredient.
What’s the best pan to use for blackening shrimp?
A heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet is ideal as it retains heat evenly, giving that signature blackened crust. But if you don’t have one, a stainless steel or nonstick skillet works well too.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold, soulful flavors to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and a definite crowd-pleaser every time I make it. I genuinely hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
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Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers a quick, flavorful seafood dish perfect for busy weeknights. The shrimp are seasoned with bold blackened seasoning, seared in a hot skillet for a smoky crust, and finished with a delicious garlic butter sauce and fresh lemon juice. Garnished with parsley, this vibrant dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with rice, salad, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Cooking & Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Garnish
- Fresh lemon juice, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Then season both sides evenly with the blackened seasoning to infuse bold Cajun flavors.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan to prepare for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque with a nicely blackened crust. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and the butter melts, creating a flavorful sauce base.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for brightness and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Patting shrimp dry is essential to get a crisp blackened crust.
- Use a preheated cast-iron skillet for best blackening results.
- You can adjust the amount of blackened seasoning to your heat preference.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- This dish pairs well with rice, grits, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
