Get ready for a treat with baked Cajun shrimp! This dish is packed with bold flavors from spices that make each bite exciting. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
I love making this when I want something special without too much fuss. Popping it in the oven means I have time to relax while it cooks. Yum! 🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish, but you can also use medium or jumbo ones. If you’re feeding a crowd, feel free to double the amount! For a budget-friendly option, look for frozen shrimp; just thaw them before cooking.
Cajun Seasoning: This is the star ingredient for flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, you can easily mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust based on your heat preference!
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well, but I prefer olive oil for a lighter taste. You could also use ghee or avocado oil if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or healthy options.
Lemon: Fresh lemon adds great zest and balance to the dish. If you’re out of lemons, lime or even a splash of vinegar can provide acidity and flavor.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky; you want them tender, not rubbery. Here’s how to nail it:
- First, make sure not to overcook them. The cooking time is about 8-10 minutes in a hot oven.
- Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a C shape when they’re done.
- If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and drained; this helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t hesitate to toss the shrimp with the seasoning in advance; letting them sit for even 15 minutes will deepen the flavor.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious shrimp dish that’s sure to impress!
Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, cut in half or into slices (for baking and garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, and 8-10 minutes to bake the shrimp. That makes the total time around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot temperature will help the shrimp cook quickly and evenly, giving them that nice, juicy texture.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil or melted butter, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. This is the flavorful coat for your shrimp!
3. Add Garlic and Coat the Shrimp:
Now, add the minced garlic to the spice mixture and combine. Then, toss in the shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix. This step really packs in the flavor!
4. Arrange and Bake:
Take a baking dish and arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. If you like, tuck the lemon halves or slices among the shrimp for even more zesty flavor while baking. Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they curl into a nice C shape.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for a bit of freshness. Garnish with chopped parsley for a splash of color. Serve hot with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, spicy Baked Cajun Shrimp! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp first. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily create your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the spices according to your taste; just remember, Cajun seasoning is typically a bit spicy!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp before baking. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
