Description
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this Spicy Southern Shrimp recipe. Perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices and smoked paprika, then sautéed with garlic and finished with a zesty hot sauce and lemon butter sauce. This quick and easy skillet shrimp dish is ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner served alongside rice, grits, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Louisiana or Crystal)
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- chopped parsley for garnish
- lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a nice sear. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to evenly coat the shrimp with the spices.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn, as it will impart a deep flavor base for the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and develop slightly crisp edges, indicating they are cooked through and flavorful.
- Finish with Sauce: Lower the heat to low, then add the hot sauce, lemon juice, and unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir gently until the butter has melted and the shrimp are evenly coated with the spicy, tangy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh contrast. Serve immediately with your choice of rice, grits, or crusty bread to enjoy the full Southern experience.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- This recipe works well with frozen shrimp; just be sure to thaw fully before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil.
- Serve with traditional Southern sides such as grits or cornbread to complement the flavors.
