Are you craving a taste of the bayou but short on time? Look no further than our Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe! Bursting with bold flavors and requiring just a handful of ingredients, this dish is a surefire way to satisfy your Cajun cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, these succulent shrimp are seasoned to perfection and baked to tender perfection. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked shrimp?
- Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh shrimp, simply adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bake the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
2. What sides pair well with Cajun shrimp?
- Cajun shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
3. Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
- Cajun seasoning typically has a bit of heat from ingredients like cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
4. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before baking. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning and baking.
Ingredients:
- 12 Shrimp, Peeled, Deveined, Cooked
- 1 tablespoon Canola Oil
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Thyme Leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Oregano
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the cooked shrimp with canola oil until evenly coated.
- Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the shrimp and toss until well coated.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Bake the Shrimp: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and the spices are fragrant.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp before serving.
- Experiment with different Cajun seasoning blends or make your own custom blend by adjusting the amounts of spices to your taste.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can use smoked sea salt instead of regular salt in the seasoning mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is naturally keto-friendly and low in carbs, making it a perfect choice for those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. Simply omit any sides that are high in carbs and enjoy the flavorful shrimp on their own or with a side of sautéed vegetables.
In conclusion, our Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. So fire up your oven, grab some shrimp, and get ready to savor the taste of the bayou with every delicious bite!
