Baked Cajun Shrimp
Seafood lovers, rejoice! If you’re craving a quick, spicy, and delicious meal that’s packed with bold flavors, this Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat, tang, and savory goodness. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.
In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of making this mouthwatering Cajun shrimp dish, share helpful tips, and even suggest some variations to suit your taste. You’ll also find answers to common questions and advice on how to store leftovers. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Cajun cuisine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Here’s why it’s a winner:
✅ Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
✅ Flavor Explosion: A delicious mix of Cajun seasoning, garlic, paprika, and lemon juice creates a perfect harmony of spicy and tangy flavors.
✅ Healthy and Low Carb: Shrimp is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a nutritious option.
✅ Easy Cleanup: Cooking in foil packets means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Baked Cajun Shrimp:
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2 pounds of large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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2 tablespoons of olive oil
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1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
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1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
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1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
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1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Salt and black pepper (to taste)
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Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (for serving)
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Tin foil (for baking)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
✔️ Large mixing bowl
✔️ Baking tray
✔️ Tin foil
✔️ Measuring spoons
✔️ Sharp knife
✔️ Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Cajun Shrimp masterpiece:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Shrimp
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly.
👉 Pro Tip: If you like your shrimp extra spicy, increase the cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes slightly.
3. Prepare the Foil Packet
Tear off a large piece of tin foil and place the seasoned shrimp in the center. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
4. Seal the Packet
Bring the edges of the foil together to form a packet, sealing it tightly so the juices stay inside while baking.
5. Bake the Shrimp
Place the foil packet on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. The shrimp is done when it’s pink and opaque.
6. Garnish and Serve
Carefully open the packet (watch out for the steam!), sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips and Tricks
✅ Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery.
✅ Add Extra Flavor: Toss in sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and taste.
✅ Make It Creamy: Drizzle with melted butter or a touch of cream for a richer flavor.
✅ Swap the Protein: Not a fan of shrimp? This recipe works beautifully with scallops, chicken, or even thinly sliced fish.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which isn’t likely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store them:
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed freezer bag.
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Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Pairing Suggestions
This Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs well with:
🍚 Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
🥗 Salad: A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the spiciness.
🍷 Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp’s bold flavors beautifully.
🥖 Bread: Crusty French bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can season the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Q: How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to tone down the heat.
Q: Can I cook this on the grill instead of the oven?
Absolutely! Grill the foil packet over medium-high heat for about 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Q: What’s the best size of shrimp for this recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best because they stay juicy and flavorful after baking.
Why This Recipe Works
Baked Cajun Shrimp combines the rich flavors of the South with a quick and easy cooking method. The seasoning blend brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang. Cooking in foil ensures the shrimp stays moist and juicy, while cleanup is a breeze.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful seafood dish, this Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a must-try. It’s spicy, tangy, and irresistibly good — perfect for any occasion.
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