Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the bold flavors of our Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe. Bursting with zesty Cajun spices and succulent shrimp, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a flavorful seafood dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure and learn how to create a dish that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, tossing them in the Cajun seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer the seasoned shrimp to the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp, ensuring each shrimp is coated with butter.
- Place the lemon slices on top of the shrimp in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve the Baked Cajun Shrimp hot, with your favorite side dishes such as rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mixture according to your taste preferences.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning blend by adding other spices such as paprika, chili powder, or cumin.
- You can also add sliced bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for extra flavor and color.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Be sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through? A: Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They are done when they turn pink and opaque with firm flesh. Avoid cooking them for too long, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While Baked Cajun Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the seasoning mixture and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate the seasoned shrimp for up to 1 hour before baking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to create a version of Baked Cajun Shrimp that fits your dietary needs:
- Use melted ghee or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Skip the onion and garlic powder to reduce the carb content.
- Serve the shrimp with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional carb-heavy options.
With these substitutions, you can enjoy the bold flavors of Baked Cajun Shrimp while staying within your dietary goals.
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its zesty seasoning blend and tender shrimp, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or part of a seafood feast, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the bayou with Baked Cajun Shrimp. Bon appétit!
