There is something irresistibly vibrant about this Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe that makes it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. With tender jumbo shrimp coated in a lively blend of paprika, garlic, and chili flakes, this dish bursts with bold flavors at every bite. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, it’s a quick yet tremendously satisfying meal that brings a little heat and a lot of love to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises to impress without keeping you tied to the stove for long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a memorable Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe. Each one plays a vital role, from adding depth and spice to ensuring that irresistible texture and vibrant color that make this dish truly stand out.
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp, peeled and deveined, with tails intact for easy handling and presentation.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Provides a smoky sweetness and rich red color that defines the Cajun flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, earthy depth to balance the spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Offers subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an herbal note that complements the heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme: Adds a delicate, slightly minty aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes: Delivers the perfect kick of heat—adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the shrimp and keeps them juicy during baking.
How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). This high temperature ensures the shrimp cooks quickly, locking in moisture while giving a slight caramelization to the spices.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Peel and devein the jumbo shrimp, leaving the tails intact. Keeping the tails on not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also gives your fingers a great handle when enjoying this dish.
Step 3: Mix the Cajun Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, thyme, chili flakes, and salt. Stir these together until perfectly blended to create the homemade Cajun seasoning that forms the heart of this Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe.
Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
In a larger bowl, toss the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning mixture and olive oil. Make sure every shrimp is generously coated so each bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Shrimp
Arrange the seasoned shrimp on a baking tray in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, signaling it is cooked through and ready to eat.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Remove the shrimp from the oven and serve right away to enjoy their freshly baked, juicy goodness.
How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your plate with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note that complements the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this flavorful shrimp with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crisp garden salad to balance the heat and create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shrimp atop warm, toasted French bread for an easy po’ boy style or skewer them with grilled vegetables for a Cajun-inspired kebab that’s perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors will remain intact, making for a quick grab-and-go meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked shrimp, but it’s best to do so as soon as they have cooled. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag to prevent clumping. Use within one month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking and drying out the shrimp. A quick toss in a hot pan with a bit of olive oil does wonders.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, peel and devein them before seasoning and baking for the best texture and flavor in this Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe.
How spicy is this Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe?
The chili flakes provide a moderate heat, but it’s easy to adjust according to your preference—add more for a fiery kick or reduce for a milder taste.
Can I use other types of shrimp?
Yes, smaller shrimp work well, too, though jumbo shrimp are ideal for a meatier bite and impressive presentation.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It’s quick to make and stores beautifully, making it a perfect choice for prepping delicious meals ahead of time.
What’s the best way to serve leftover shrimp?
Leftover shrimp can be tossed into salads, pasta, or even scrambled eggs for a flavorful boost to your meals without extra effort.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold Cajun flavors but comes together effortlessly, this Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe is your new go-to. It’s quick, hearty, and utterly delicious—a true winner whether you’re feeding family or friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how much joy a simple shrimp dinner can bring to the table!
Print
Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe features jumbo shrimp seasoned with a flavorful blend of Cajun spices and baked to perfection. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish delivers a spicy, aromatic seafood experience that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the shrimp.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the jumbo shrimp carefully, leaving the tails intact for an attractive presentation and easy handling.
- Make the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, thyme, chili flakes, and salt. Stir well to create a balanced and aromatic Cajun spice blend.
- Season the Shrimp: Toss the peeled shrimp with the prepared Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Mix thoroughly to coat each shrimp evenly with the spices and oil.
- Bake the Shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking tray. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the shrimp from the oven and serve hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Keep the tails on the shrimp for better flavor and presentation.
- Adjust chili flakes quantity to manage the heat level according to your taste preference.
- You can serve this shrimp with rice, crusty bread, or over a fresh salad.
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the shrimp with seasoning for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they become rubbery; baking for about 10 minutes is sufficient.
