Baked Cajun Shrimp

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of bold flavors and easy preparation. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a quick appetizer or a light dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The smoky, spicy seasoning brings a unique twist that elevates simple shrimp into a standout meal.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp
• For the Seasoning
• How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
• Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning
• Step 4: Season the Shrimp
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
• As an Appetizer
• Over Rice
• In Tacos
• With Salad
• On Pasta
• With Dipping Sauce
• How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use raw shrimp for Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
• How spicy is Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Can I customize the seasoning for Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• What can I serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have a delicious dish ready to serve.
• Bold Flavors: The Cajun spices give the shrimp an irresistible kick that will excite your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or toss it into salads and rice bowls for added protein.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in flavor, this shrimp dish fits well into various diets.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to create this flavorful meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Foil
• Cooking spray
• Small bowl with lid

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for coating the shrimp evenly with oil and spices.
• Baking sheet: Provides a surface for even cooking and crisping of the shrimp.
• Foil: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking to the baking sheet.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 12 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked

For the Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon thyme leaves
• ¼ teaspoon ground oregano

How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl and add the canola oil. Cover and gently shake the bowl to coat all the shrimp evenly with oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning

In a separate small bowl with a lid, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Shake or stir to mix well.

Step 4: Season the Shrimp

Add the seasoning mixture to the shrimp. Cover the bowl again and gently shake to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with spices.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until heated through and lightly crisped on the edges.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal, an appetizer, or part of a larger feast, these shrimp can fit perfectly into your menu.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm alongside toothpicks for easy picking. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings.

Over Rice

• Place the shrimp on a bed of fluffy rice. The rice will soak up the spicy flavors and make for a filling meal.

In Tacos

• Use the baked shrimp as a filling for soft or crunchy tacos. Top with fresh avocado and cilantro for added flavor.

With Salad

• Toss the baked shrimp into your favorite salad. They add protein and spice, making your salad more satisfying.

On Pasta

• Combine the shrimp with pasta and a light sauce for a delightful dinner option. It’s quick, easy, and delicious!

With Dipping Sauce

• Pair with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or remoulade for an extra kick. This makes them even more enjoyable as finger food.

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How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your Baked Cajun Shrimp, consider these simple tips. Each one will help elevate the flavors and ensure perfect texture.

• Preheat your oven: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature helps the shrimp cook evenly and crisp up nicely.

• Use fresh spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile significantly. Make sure your seasonings are not expired for maximum impact.

• Don’t overcrowd: Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. Tailor it to suit your taste preferences.

• Garnish thoughtfully: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add freshness when serving. A squeeze of lemon also brightens up flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs well with many side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the shrimp.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the spiciness of the shrimp.

3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn complements Cajun flavors very well and adds sweetness to your meal.

4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables provides a healthy base that pairs beautifully with spicy shrimp.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and texture while keeping things healthy and flavorful.

6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit; they provide a satisfying crunch next to tender shrimp.

7. Cajun Rice: For an extra kick, serve with Cajun-spiced rice, which enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Cajun Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough spices can lead to bland shrimp. Make sure to coat the shrimp evenly with the seasoning mix for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. Keep an eye on them while baking; they should only take about 10 minutes.
• Using frozen shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures even cooking.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality shrimp or seasonings can affect flavor. Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp and spices for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Baked Cajun Shrimp can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to label with the date.

Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Cajun Shrimp that may help you out.

Can I use raw shrimp for Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Yes, you can use raw shrimp! Just increase the baking time until they’re fully cooked, which typically takes around 15 minutes.

What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Medium or large-sized shrimp work best as they hold up well during baking and absorb flavors nicely.

How spicy is Baked Cajun Shrimp?

The level of spice depends on the amount of cayenne pepper you use. For milder flavor, reduce or omit it entirely.

Can I customize the seasoning for Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices like cumin or smoked salt according to your taste preferences.

What can I serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?

These flavorful shrimp pair well with rice, salads, or as a topping on tacos. Experiment with sides you love!

Final Thoughts

Baked Cajun Shrimp is not just easy but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. You can customize it with different spices or serve it alongside your favorite dishes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its bold flavors!