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Baked Cajun Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that packs a punch with its bold spices and juicy shrimp. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a delicious appetizer for gatherings. Coated with a blend of Cajun spices, butter, and lemon, these shrimp are baked until perfectly tender and bursting with flavor. Serve them with rice, crusty bread, or a simple side salad to complete your meal. It’s a dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the shrimp and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the Shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp for added brightness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left in the oven too long.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them while baking. They’re done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Cajun seasoning can vary in spice level, so adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add an extra clove of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Lemon Herb Shrimp: Replace the Cajun seasoning with Italian seasoning and add extra lemon zest for a fresh, herbal flavor.
- Creamy Cajun Shrimp: After baking, toss the shrimp in a creamy sauce made of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan for an indulgent twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use raw shrimp for this recipe to ensure they don’t overcook and become rubbery. If you must use pre-cooked shrimp, bake them for a shorter time, just until heated through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I grill the shrimp instead of baking?
A: Absolutely! Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve the shrimp over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious juices.
- With Crusty Bread: Pair with crusty bread to scoop up all the flavorful Cajun butter sauce.
- With a Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal option.
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of Cajun spices, buttery goodness, and a hint of lemon makes these shrimp irresistible. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to deliver. Give it a try and enjoy the bold flavors of this Cajun classic!
