Cajun Shrimp

Cajun and shrimp together already scream a fantastic flavor bomb waiting to explode on your tastebuds. But the extraordinary sauce takes it over the top! Imagine shrimp smothered in a decadent, spicy sauce for a surreal dining experience. I don’t like to brag, but I am truly proud of my homemade Cajun Creole seasoning. This spice mix takes shrimp (and almost any other recipe) from average to magical without breaking a sweat. And Cajun shrimp is an easy way to ramp your weeknight dinner to the next level in less than 15 minutes. Truly impressive!

Recipe Ingredients

The Shrimp Cajun Sauce

How to Make Cajun Shrimp

Make the Shrimp

Seasoning – In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning – paprika, garlic & onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, cayenne, and salt. Set aside. Season the Shrimp – Place shrimp in a large bowl, then season generously with creole seasoning. Reserve remaining seasoning for later use. Heat the Oil – Heat a heavy pot over medium heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of oil and butter to the skillet or Dutch oven. Saute the Shrimp – As soon as it heats up, add shrimp and brown on each side for about 1-2 minutes per side. Shrimp will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Make the Sauce

Sauté – Add garlic, green onions, and bell pepper to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds. Liquid – Pour in broth and lemon juice and cook for another minute. Add the Shrimp – Return the shrimp to the pan with any liquid from the plate. Final Touch – Cook for 1-2 minutes, adding broth if needed. Adjust seasonings to taste. Serve -Turn off the heat and serve with rice, pasta, and/or veggies.

Recipe Variations

Tips and Tricks

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can make the Cajun seasoning ahead and store it in a glass jar in a cool, dry place for 6 months to 1 year. Although it won’t spoil, it may lose its flavor after a year. You can also prep the shrimp, season them, and store them in the freezer for 3 months.

Serving and Storage Instructions

Shrimp is always best hot out of the skillet, served over pasta or rice, and smothered in sauce. If you have leftover Cajun shrimp 🤔, refrigerate it in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm the shrimp by reheating them in a skillet in butter or oil, and add broth as needed. Serve with your favorite pasta or salad!

What to Serve With Cajun Shrimp

This shrimp recipe is so versatile that it can pass as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Depending on my mood, I love eating it over grits alongside my favorite cocktail or beer.