Baked Cajun Shrimp: A Quick and Flavorful Seafood Treat
There are few meals that are as fast, flavorful, and satisfying as a perfectly cooked shrimp dish. This recipe for Baked Cajun Shrimp is a prime example. It takes tender, succulent shrimp and coats them in a bold, smoky Cajun spice blend before baking them to perfection. The result is a delicious and healthy meal that is ready in about 10 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a quick appetizer, a main course over rice, or a savory addition to a salad.
Why I love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of recipes that deliver a big punch of flavor with minimal effort, and this one has quickly become a go-to in my kitchen. What I love most is the simplicity of the process. The baking method ensures the shrimp cook evenly and stay tender and juicy every time. The Cajun seasoning mix is the star of the show—it’s a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors that cling to every piece of shrimp. This is a fantastic recipe for a busy weeknight, as you can have a delicious seafood meal on the table in minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 121 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground oregano
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Swaps and Notes
- Shrimp: This recipe works best with large or jumbo shrimp, as they are less likely to overcook. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
- Oil: Canola oil is a good, neutral-flavored oil for this recipe. You can also use olive oil or avocado oil.
- Spice Level: The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which gives the shrimp a nice kick. You can adjust this amount to your personal taste. For a milder flavor, use less, and for a spicier flavor, add a little more.
- Herbs: Dried thyme and oregano are staples in Cajun seasoning. You can also add other dried herbs like basil or a pinch of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Salt: The provided quantity of salt is quite generous. I recommend starting with 1 teaspoon and adding more to taste, especially if you plan to use a pre-made spice mix that may already contain salt.
- Cooking Method: The recipe calls for raw shrimp, despite the translation’s initial note of “cooked shrimp.” The baking process is what cooks the shrimp, resulting in a juicy, tender texture.
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Preheat Oven and Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
- Season the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a medium mixing bowl. Add the canola oil and toss until all the shrimp are lightly coated. In a separate small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano. Stir to combine.
- Coat the Shrimp: Add the spice mixture to the bowl with the shrimp. Toss gently until all the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Bake: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the shrimp are not touching, as this will help them cook evenly.
- Serve: Bake for approximately 10 minutes. The shrimp are done when they are opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook them! Serve the shrimp hot with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips for Success
- Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before seasoning, make sure you pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick better and allows the shrimp to cook properly without becoming watery.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks very quickly. You’ll know it’s done when it turns pink and curls into a loose C shape. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery.
- Use a Single Layer: Placing the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet is crucial. This ensures that every piece of shrimp cooks evenly and gets a nice, smoky flavor from the seasoning.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end is a must. The acidity brightens the flavors and adds a perfect finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These baked Cajun shrimp are incredibly versatile. They are a fantastic appetizer on their own, but you can also serve them as a main course. They would be delicious served over a bed of fluffy rice, in a pasta dish, or on top of a fresh green salad. For a simple side, some roasted vegetables or a corn and tomato salad would be a great complement to the smoky, spicy flavors.
For a drink pairing, a light, crisp beer or a simple iced tea would be perfect for cooling down the heat from the cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Information
(Please note that this is an estimate and will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
This dish is a high-protein, low-fat meal. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and is very low in calories. The spices and a small amount of oil add flavor without a lot of extra fat. It’s a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Shrimp is best enjoyed immediately after it’s cooked. The texture and flavor can change significantly when it is reheated. If you do have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To reheat, you can briefly warm the shrimp in a pan over very low heat. Do not overcook it.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a timeless classic for a reason. It’s a flavorful, easy, and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp and a bold Cajun seasoning is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy this effortless and delicious meal. Let me know in the comments how you enjoyed it!
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