Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in no time, this Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly seasoned shrimp with a buttery, garlicky lemon sauce brings a mouthwatering combination of heat, zest, and richness that will have you hooked from the very first bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe offers that special kick infused with Southern flair, making it a standout in your seafood repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the authentic taste of this Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe. Each element plays a vital role—from the spicy Cajun seasoning to the fresh parsley’s bright notes. The balance of butter and olive oil creates a luscious texture that coats the shrimp perfectly.

• 2 pounds large or jumbo shrimp (21-25 count), peeled, deveined, tails on: Choose shrimp with the tails on for easier handling and presentation.
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning: This blend brings the characteristic spice and smokiness of Cajun cooking.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter enriches the shrimp and helps meld the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Olive oil prevents the butter from burning, adding a subtle fruity note.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for the luscious lemon garlic butter sauce.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley: Parsley adds a burst of freshness and color.
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens the dish with a zesty tang.
• 1 recipe Remoulade (for dipping): Optional but highly recommended as a creamy, tangy complement.

How to Make Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Season Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry; removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick and promotes even cooking. Toss the shrimp in a large bowl with the Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is well coated. This step builds the foundation for that signature spicy flavor.

Step 2: Cook Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, crank the heat to medium-high until the pan is hot and sizzling. Add half the shrimp in a single layer; cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and curl up. Transfer them to a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp. Taking this approach ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and develop a nice sear.

Step 3: Make Lemon Garlic Butter

Using the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant, making your kitchen smell irresistible. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. This sauce ties all the flavors together with a luscious, buttery brightness.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

You have two options here: dip your cooked shrimp into the lemon garlic parsley butter, or add the shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, cayenne, or additional lemon juice as desired. This final step personalizes your dish and amps up the flavor just how you like it.

How to Serve Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon on the side instantly elevates the dish’s presentation while enhancing the flavors with vibrant green and citrusy freshness. Adding a light dusting of smoked paprika can also offer a subtle smoky touch that pairs wonderfully with the Cajun spices.

Side Dishes

Because this shrimp is so flavorful, it pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy white rice, creamy grits, or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad can provide balance and texture to round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp as a fun appetizer by skewering them with toothpicks and offering a side of remoulade for dipping. Alternatively, toss the Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe with pasta, or pile it atop a fresh salad for a satisfying main course. The versatility means you can impress your guests with something new every time you make it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. Because shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery, try to use leftovers within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to freeze cooked Cajun shrimp, spread them out on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent clumping and preserves their texture well. Frozen cooked shrimp are best used within 1 month.

Reheating

Gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it tends to overcook shrimp. Adding a splash of water or extra lemon garlic butter can help keep them moist and flavorful during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This prevents excess water from diluting the flavors and ensures even cooking.

How spicy is this Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe?

The level of spice depends on the Cajun seasoning you use and whether you add extra cayenne pepper. Feel free to adjust to your taste by using milder seasoning or adding more heat as you prefer.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and use olive oil generously to keep the richness. The flavor will still be fantastic.

Is remoulade necessary for this recipe?

Remoulade isn’t essential, but it adds a creamy, tangy element that compliments the spicy shrimp beautifully. If you want to keep it simple, the lemon garlic butter sauce alone is delicious on its own.

What can I serve with Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe for a full meal?

Try serving it over a bed of rice, alongside sautéed greens, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You could also add it to pasta or a grain bowl for a hearty, satisfying dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe that feels comforting and sophisticated all at once. The simple ingredients come together to create a lively dish filled with layers of flavor, and the quick cooking time means you can enjoy it any day of the week. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and find it as addictive as I do—it’s a true crowd-pleaser every time!

Cajun-Style Shrimp Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Cajun-Style Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, succulent shrimp cooked in a rich lemon garlic parsley butter. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy and flavorful dish perfect as an appetizer or main course, complemented by a creamy remoulade dipping sauce.

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Ingredients

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Shrimp and Seasoning

• 2 pounds large or jumbo shrimp (21–25 count), peeled, deveined, tails on
• 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning

Cooking Fats

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for lemon garlic butter)

Flavorings

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice

Condiments

• 1 recipe Remoulade (for dipping)

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Instructions

1. Season Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and toss thoroughly with 1 ½ tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, ensuring all shrimp are evenly coated with the spice blend.
2. Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Increase the heat to medium-high until the mixture is very hot and sizzling. Add half of the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through. Transfer cooked shrimp to a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining shrimp.
3. Make Lemon Garlic Butter: Return the (now empty) skillet to medium heat and melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the minced parsley and lemon juice to combine all flavors.
4. Serve: You can either serve the lemon parsley butter as a dip alongside the shrimp or return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the butter mixture to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and additional lemon juice if desired.

Notes

• You can use fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning depending on your preferred spice level; add more for extra heat or less for a milder taste.
• The lemon garlic parsley butter is optional but highly recommended for adding rich, complementary flavors to the shrimp.
• Remoulade sauce is a great optional dipping sauce that pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp.
• Serve this Cajun shrimp as an appetizer with toothpicks, as a main course alongside rice and vegetables, or incorporate into pasta and salads for added flavor and protein.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun