Skillet Cajun Shrimp Recipe

Introduction

This Skillet Cajun Shrimp recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors with a gentle kick of heat. Perfectly seasoned and seared to juicy perfection, it’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s great for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. shrimp – raw, deveined, shelled, with tail on (26/30 size preferred)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (ensure it is smoked)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (can substitute dried thyme)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (add more for extra heat)
• 1 tbsp butter
• Fresh lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine shrimp, 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly. Let marinate for 30 minutes up to 6 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter. Once hot, add half the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook another 2 minutes until shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Remove to a plate. Repeat with the remaining shrimp.
3. Step 3: Remove the skillet from heat, return all cooked shrimp to the pan, and squeeze fresh lemon wedges over them. Stir gently to combine.
4. Step 4: Serve the warm Cajun shrimp immediately, optionally alongside Cajun Aioli for dipping.
5. Step 5: For a complete meal, serve the shrimp over Cajun rice with a side of roasted broccoli.

Tips & Variations

• For milder spice, reduce or omit red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme as a substitute for oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Marinating the shrimp for longer enhances the flavors but avoid over 6 hours to prevent texture change.
• Add a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet before finishing for extra depth.

Storage

Store leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid overcooking. It’s best enjoyed freshly cooked as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure even seasoning and proper cooking.

What can I serve with Cajun shrimp?

Cajun shrimp pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables like broccoli, crusty bread, or a fresh salad to balance the spicy flavors.

Skillet Cajun Shrimp Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 531 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Skillet Cajun Shrimp recipe offers a spicy, flavorful seafood dish coated in a smoky paprika and herb marinade, perfectly cooked in a skillet for a quick and delicious meal. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with Cajun rice and roasted broccoli.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Marinade

• 1 lb. raw, deveined, shelled shrimp with tail on (26/30 size)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or dried thyme)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• pinch of cayenne pepper

Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• Fresh lemon wedges

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 30 minutes up to 6 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the First Half of Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add half of the marinated shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred. Remove the cooked shrimp to a plate.
3. Cook the Remaining Shrimp: Add the remaining shrimp to the hot skillet and repeat the cooking process: 2 minutes on one side and 2 minutes on the other. Remove once cooked.
4. Combine and Add Lemon: Remove the skillet from heat and return all the shrimp to the pan. Squeeze two fresh lemon wedges over the shrimp and stir gently to mix and coat with the lemon juice and buttery sauce.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the warm Cajun shrimp immediately. They pair excellently with Cajun aioli for dipping.
6. Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve the skillet Cajun shrimp over Cajun rice accompanied by roasted broccoli on the side.

Notes

• Marinate the shrimp longer for deeper flavor; up to 6 hours is ideal.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper.
• Use smoked paprika for authentic smoky flavor—do not substitute with regular paprika.
• Ensure the skillet is hot before adding shrimp to get a good sear.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their best texture and temperature.
• Pairs well with Cajun aioli, rice, and roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Cajun

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, skillet shrimp recipe, spicy shrimp, quick seafood dinner, Cajun seasoning