Cajun Shrimp

This Cajun shrimp recipe has plenty to offer in the flavor department with a homemade Cajun seasoning to send the taste buds into overdrive. It’s quick, easy, and ready in under 20 minutes total!

Why this recipe works

Juicy, plump shrimp are generously spiced with our homemade Cajun seasoning in this Cajun shrimp recipe.

This is a simple dish that comes together in under 20 minutes for an easy dinner packed with mouth-watering flavor. You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to get it on the table, and the willpower to hold off until it’s finished of course.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

SHRIMP – We find our grilling shrimp at the butcher counter at our local grocery store. You will want them to be peeled, deveined, and have the tails removed. You can also buy frozen bagged shrimp, just be sure they are not pre-cooked. Allow frozen shrimp to thaw completely before beginning.

SEASONING – We use our homemade Cajun seasoning, however, you can purchase pre-made seasoning in varied heat levels. Ours would be considered medium heat.

How to Make Cajun Shrimp

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. Place shrimp in a large bowl.
2. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and half of the olive oil.
3. Place remaining olive oil in a large skillet and heat over medium-high.
4. While the skillet is preheating, use gloved hands to toss shrimp, seasoning, and oil together until evenly coated.
5. Place seasoned shrimp into hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Turn shrimp over and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove shrimp to drain on paper towels and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Shrimp does not take long to cook, which also means it can easily be overcooked. The shrimp will curl and turn opaque with pink and red hues when it is finished cooking. Overcooked shrimp tend to turn a whiteish grey and are rubbery in texture.

Store leftover Cajun shrimp in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cajun shrimp over or alongside a bed of white rice or dirty rice. You can easily transform this into a cajun shrimp pasta by tossing it with buttered noodles or a mixture of heavy cream and parmesan cheese boiled on the stovetop.

Try stuffing your Cajun shrimp into burritos or tacos with rice and sauteed veggies or simply enjoy them as is served as an appetizer.

More Cajun Recipes

• Cajun Rice
• Cajun Salmon
• Blackened Chicken
• Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Spicy Roasted Cauliflower

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