These baked Cajun shrimp are zesty and flavorful! With a mix of spices, they turn ordinary shrimp into a tasty treat that’s super quick to make.
I love serving these shrimp with rice or crusty bread to soak up all the yummy sauce. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up, perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe, but you can also use medium shrimp if that’s what you have. Frozen shrimp are fine; just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking!
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought Cajun seasoning is convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily mix your own with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and herbs. Don’t be afraid to adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and flavor. If you want a different taste, avocado oil or melted coconut oil work well too!
Butter: I love using unsalted butter for its creamy richness. You can swap it for vegan butter or omit it to keep it lighter.
How Can You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp is all about timing. They cook quickly and turn rubbery if left too long in the oven. Keep an eye on them! They’re ready when they turn pink and curl into a C shape.
- Preheat your oven well to ensure even cooking.
- Spread the shrimp out evenly on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than baking.
- Check for doneness at the 8-minute mark! If they’re not done, give them a little more time, but check frequently.
How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as desired)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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 to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to bake, for a total of 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for a busy night or a last-minute dinner party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Seasoning:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and ready for the shrimp.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them until they are thoroughly coated with the seasoning mixture. This will ensure every bite is flavorful!
4. Arrange on Sheet:
Next, arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded—this helps them bake evenly.
5. Adding the Butter:
Now, drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp. This adds richness and a delicious flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
6. Baking Time:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. You want the shrimp to turn pink and be cooked through but be careful not to overcook them!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your baked Cajun shrimp are now ready to serve! Enjoy them immediately, and feel free to add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious, spicy baked Cajun shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely beforehand. To quickly thaw, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own Cajun seasoning at home using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the spices to your taste, especially the cayenne if you prefer more or less heat!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover baked Cajun shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or a skillet over low heat until heated through, being careful not to overcook them again.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like it hotter, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture. You can also sprinkle some chopped jalapeños over the shrimp before baking for an extra kick.
