Cajun Style Shrimp Recipe

You know those nights when you want something tasty, fast, and just a little spicy? Yeah, this Cajun shrimp is my go-to for that. It’s buttery, bold, and ready in minutes.

I’ve made this so many times, and it never fails. Just a few pantry spices, some garlic, and juicy shrimp. It smells amazing while it cooks—and tastes even better.

I love serving it with rice or bread to soak up that sauce. Sometimes I toss it in pasta too. However you eat it, it always feels like a treat.

Let me walk you through it. Super simple steps. Big, bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Satisfying: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Packed with Flavor: Cajun seasoning and garlic butter create a bold and balanced taste.
• Flexible: Serve with rice, pasta, bread, or fresh salad—anything goes.
• No Marinating Needed: The seasoning mix acts fast and delivers deep flavor instantly.
• Perfect for Weeknights: Fast cleanup and easy prep make it a weeknight favorite.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings:
Serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as a side or appetizer.

Difficulty:
Beginner-friendly, with minimal chopping and one skillet needed.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet (cast iron or nonstick)
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer (optional, for lemon)

Ingredients for Cajun Style Shrimp

This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh shrimp for a flavorful, buttery dish with Cajun flair. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shrimp: 1½ pounds (about 700g), peeled and deveined. Use medium to large size.
• Cajun Seasoning: 1½ tablespoons. Choose store-bought or homemade.
• Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons. Adds richness to the garlic sauce.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Helps prevent burning and balances flavor.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, finely minced. Adds aroma and depth.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. For garnish and freshness.
• Lemon Juice: From ½ a lemon. Brightens the final dish.
• Remoulade (Optional): Serve on the side as a dipping sauce or drizzle.

Variations for Cajun Style Shrimp

• Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
• Herb Boost: Try thyme or oregano along with parsley.
• Grill Option: Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
• Swap the Protein: Use the same method for chicken tenders or scallops.

How to Make Cajun Style Shrimp — Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp

If your shrimp are frozen, thaw them completely, then pat dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess moisture in the pan.

2. Season

Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the Cajun seasoning and toss well until each shrimp is evenly coated. No need to marinate—this seasoning acts fast.

3. Heat the Pan

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. The oil keeps the butter from burning while still giving that rich flavor.

4. Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it brown too much, or it’ll taste bitter.

5. Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for 2–3 more minutes until the shrimp turn pink and slightly curled. Do not overcook—they’ll get rubbery.

6. Finish with Lemon and Parsley

Turn off the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss gently to coat everything in that garlicky butter sauce.

How to Serve Cajun Style Shrimp

This dish is endlessly flexible. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Over Rice: Try jasmine, basmati, or dirty rice to soak up the buttery sauce.
• With Pasta: Toss with linguine or angel hair for a quick Cajun shrimp pasta.
• In Tacos: Load into warm tortillas with slaw and avocado.
• With Bread: Serve with crusty baguette or garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, sautéed greens, or a corn salad.

Storing Cajun Style Shrimp

• Refrigerator: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter.
• Freezer: It’s best to freeze shrimp before cooking. However, if needed, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Make Ahead: You can season the shrimp and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 4 hours before cooking.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Dry the Shrimp Well: Moisture can cause steaming instead of searing.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed so the shrimp get a good sear.
• Watch the Garlic: Garlic burns fast. Only cook it for 30 seconds before adding the shrimp.
• Use Quality Cajun Seasoning: Some blends are saltier or spicier than others. Taste before adding extra salt.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: They cook fast—2–3 minutes per side is all you need.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/4 of recipe)
Calories	230
Protein	25g
Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	3g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	0g
Sodium	710mg
Cholesterol	180mg

Note: Values are approximate and can vary depending on brands used.

Cajun Shrimp FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best sear.

What’s the best Cajun seasoning to use?
Any brand will work, but check the salt level—some blends are quite salty. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste.

Can I grill these instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

What sides go well with Cajun shrimp?
Try rice, grits, pasta, or crusty bread. Roasted vegetables or a crisp salad work well too.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the butter for all olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Conclusion

This Cajun Style Shrimp recipe is fast, flavorful, and fits into just about any meal plan. Whether you’re craving something spicy for taco night or looking for a quick protein to top your salad, this shrimp delivers. It’s bold without being overwhelming, and easy enough to make anytime—even on a weeknight. Give it a try, and keep it in rotation for meals that taste like you spent way more time than you did.