If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors yet comes together in no time, this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy shrimp with a smoky and spicy blackened seasoning, enhanced by a luscious garlic butter sauce and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a flavorful celebration of Cajun cooking that feels effortlessly satisfying every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the spices that give it that signature kick to the butter that adds richness, these essentials make the cooking process simple yet impressive.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp cook quickly and absorb seasonings beautifully.
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning: You can use a store-bought blend or make your own to add that perfect balance of smoky heat and aromatic spices.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to sear the shrimp perfectly for that irresistible crust.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds a silky richness and helps create the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the finishing sauce.
- Fresh lemon juice, for garnish: Adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Lends a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.
How to Make Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by thoroughly patting your shrimp dry with paper towels—this step ensures a nice sear. Then, sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over both sides. This is where the magic begins, infusing the shrimp with a vibrant, spicy crust that carries all those delicious Cajun flavors.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Getting your pan hot is key to achieving that classic blackened effect—a quick, intense sear that locks in juices and creates beautiful color on the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and develop that irresistible blackened crust. Once cooked, take the shrimp out and set them aside to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and the minced garlic. Stir and cook for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This quick sauce picks up any remaining blackened bits from the pan, intensifying the overall flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter sauce, coating every piece with that luscious flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp to add a zesty brightness. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of chopped parsley and a squeeze of just-squeezed fresh lemon juice are simple yet transformative. These garnishes lighten the dish visually and flavor-wise, balancing the spicy richness with herbal brightness and tang.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve with fluffy white rice or creamy grits to soak up all that buttery sauce. For a lighter option, crisp green beans or a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette make perfect companions that contrast the spice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, heap the Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe over toasted baguette slices for an irresistible appetizer or make tacos using warm corn tortillas topped with cabbage slaw and avocado slices. The bold flavors also work wonderfully atop a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic for a quick seafood feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover blackened shrimp keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to cool the shrimp completely before storing to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep shrimp longer, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. For best results, freeze before making the garlic butter sauce and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small splash of olive oil or butter to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make shrimp rubbery. A quick warm-through is all they need to regain their tender, juicy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to get that perfect blackened crust. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of searing.
What is blackened seasoning made of?
Blackened seasoning typically combines spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. You can find blends in stores or easily mix your own at home for a custom flavor.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level depends on your blackened seasoning. Most blends offer a balanced heat, but if you prefer milder, reduce the cayenne or chili powder. Conversely, add more for a fiery kick!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredient list is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your blackened seasoning does not contain any gluten additives. Always check labels if you have sensitivities.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This recipe is perfect for busy days because it takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. Quick prep and fast cooking make it a fantastic choice for any schedule.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes I come back to again and again—they’re just so quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The bold seasoning combined with the buttery garlic finish makes every bite a joy. I hope you give it a try soon and find yourself hooked on this effortless taste of Cajun magic!
Print
Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful recipe for Easy Cajun Blackened Shrimp featuring succulent shrimp coated in bold blackened seasoning and cooked with a garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a delicious, spicy meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Garnish
- Fresh lemon juice, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they sear properly. Evenly coat both sides of the shrimp with the blackened seasoning for that signature Cajun flavor.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil to prepare for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a blackened crust. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them to coat evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are patted dry before seasoning for best sear.
- Blackened seasoning can be homemade or store-bought based on preference.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp to maintain a good crust.
- Serve with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Adjust blackened seasoning quantity for milder or spicier flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
