Baked Cajun Shrimp is a fantastic dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of Cajun seasoning and fresh shrimp makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal.
How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the shrimp mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
Baked Cajun Shrimp can be served on a bed of rice, alongside a fresh salad, or even in tacos. It pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream. For a fun twist, serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
How to Store Baked Cajun Shrimp
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Make sure the shrimp are properly peeled and deveined for the best texture.
- If you prefer spicier shrimp, add extra Cajun seasoning.
- Serve the dish immediately after baking for the best taste.
- Experiment with adding vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the baking sheet for a complete meal.
Variation
You can switch up the seasoning and use Old Bay or a different spice blend if you want to try a new flavor profile. Alternatively, for a creamier version, consider adding a splash of heavy cream before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to defrost them completely before cooking.
2. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.
3. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?
Yes, you can sauté the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are cooked through.
Baked Cajun Shrimp is simple, delicious, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. Enjoy cooking!
Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients
Seafood Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Use fresh or completely thawed frozen shrimp
Seasoning and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin is preferred for flavor
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste for spiciness
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley For garnish before serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Spread the shrimp mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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