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.
