These spicy baked Cajun shrimp are a treat! With bold flavors from Cajun spices and a quick baking time, you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time.
I love serving these shrimp with rice or a fresh salad. They always add a kick to dinner, plus they’re super easy to make, so I can spend more time enjoying my meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp bring the best texture for this dish. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, you can use frozen shrimp, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained. Medium shrimp can work, but be cautious with cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy it pre-made, but if you want, create your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and pepper. This way, you can adjust heat levels to your taste!
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work great, but butter adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use a light olive oil. You could also use avocado oil as a substitute.
Fresh Parsley: I think fresh parsley really brightens the dish, but if you don’t have any, you could skip it or try fresh cilantro for a different twist.
How Do I Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp?
Overcooking shrimp can turn them rubbery, and nobody wants that! Here’s how to avoid it:
- Cook shrimp just until they’re opaque and firm. They typically take 8-10 minutes in the oven.
- Keep an eye on them; since shrimp cook quickly, you might want to check at the 7-minute mark.
- Using a thermometer can help—shrimp are done at 120°F (49°C).
Remember, they’ll continue to cook a little after you take them out of the oven, so it’s fine to undercook them slightly before the final timer goes off. Enjoy your cooking!
Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes before you can enjoy your flavorful baked Cajun shrimp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your shrimp cook quickly and evenly!
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil (or melted butter) with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is combined well.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are all evenly coated. Make sure each little shrimp gets that delicious flavor!
4. Arrange for Baking:
Spread the seasoned shrimp out in a single layer in a baking dish or skillet. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook them!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the shrimp out of the oven and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve right away with lemon wedges for squeezing over, if you like.
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy baked Cajun shrimp! They pair perfectly with rice, crusty bread, or a crisp green salad. Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely first. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Just be sure to pat them dry before seasoning!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a simple substitute by mixing together equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust the ratios to suit your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked Cajun shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook them again.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to toss in some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus with the shrimp before baking. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different vegetables may require slightly different times to cook through.
