Spicy Baked Cajun Shrimp: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Southern Delight

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Get ready to spice up your dinner table with this irresistible Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe! Bursting with the vibrant, soulful flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun cuisine, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a smoky, zesty spice blend that’s baked to perfection. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to bring a little Southern heat to the table. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers maximum flavor in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this fiery, flavorful adventure that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

For the Cajun Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (12-16 count), peeled, deveined, and cooked (fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well)
• 2 tablespoons canola oil (or substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for richer flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika (for a deep, smoky kick)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (reduce to ¼ tsp for milder heat, or increase for extra spice)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 1 tsp fresh thyme for a brighter note)
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (or ground oregano for a more intense flavor)
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish (optional, for a pop of color)

Serves: 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a main dish
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly coat the foil with cooking spray or a thin layer of canola oil to prevent sticking. This step ensures your shrimp slide off the pan effortlessly, preserving their juicy texture and bold seasoning.
2. Coat the Shrimp in Oil
   Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the canola oil over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. To make this step foolproof, cover the bowl with a lid or a plate and gently shake or toss to evenly distribute the oil. The oil helps the spices adhere to the shrimp and promotes a golden, slightly crisp exterior during baking.
3. Mix the Cajun Spice Blend
   In a small bowl with a lid (or a resealable jar for easy storage of leftovers), combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Close the lid and shake vigorously to blend the spices into a fragrant, fiery Cajun seasoning mix. This homemade blend is the heart of the dish, delivering smoky, spicy, and herbaceous notes that define Cajun cuisine. Feel free to double the recipe and save half for future dishes like grilled chicken or roasted veggies!
4. Season the Shrimp
   Sprinkle the Cajun spice mix over the oiled shrimp in the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl again and gently shake or toss to ensure every shrimp is evenly coated with the vibrant seasoning. The goal is to envelop each shrimp in a bold layer of flavor without overwhelming its natural sweetness. If you prefer a hands-on approach, use clean hands or tongs to gently massage the spices into the shrimp.
5. Arrange and Bake
   Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap to promote even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and slightly curled, with the spices forming a fragrant, golden crust. Since the shrimp are pre-cooked, you’re simply warming them and allowing the flavors to meld—avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
6. Serve with Flair
   Transfer the warm shrimp to a serving platter or individual plates. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavors and add a zesty contrast to the smoky spices. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful touch. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for guests to customize their experience.

Tips for Success

• Choosing Shrimp: Pre-cooked shrimp save time, but if using raw shrimp, bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp (16/20 or 12/16 count) for a meaty texture that stands up to the bold seasoning.
• Adjusting Heat: Cajun cuisine is known for its spice, but you can tailor the heat level. Reduce the cayenne to ¼ teaspoon for a milder flavor, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra fire.
• Oil Alternatives: While canola oil is neutral and works well, melted butter adds richness, and olive oil brings a slightly fruity note. Choose based on your flavor preference.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the spice blend in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a month. You can also season the shrimp a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to avoid toughening the shrimp. They’re also delicious cold in salads!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a love letter to the bold, vibrant flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun country. The smoky paprika, fiery cayenne, and aromatic herbs create a seasoning that’s both robust and balanced, complementing the shrimp’s natural sweetness. Baking the shrimp keeps the preparation simple and healthy, with no need for frying or excessive oil. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a main dish with sides, or tossed into a salad or taco, this dish is versatile, quick, and packed with personality. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings where you want to impress without the fuss.

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a side of remoulade sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping. Toothpicks make them easy to grab at parties.
• As a Main Dish: Pair with classic Cajun sides like dirty rice, cornbread, or creamy coleslaw. For a lighter option, serve over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.
• Taco Night Twist: Stuff the shrimp into warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of spicy mayo for Cajun shrimp tacos.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Rosé complements the spice and enhances the shrimp’s delicate flavor. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling lemonade or iced tea with a hint of mint.

The Cajun Inspiration

Cajun cuisine, rooted in the vibrant culture of Louisiana’s Acadian settlers, is all about bold flavors, simple ingredients, and hearty, soul-warming dishes. This recipe captures that spirit with its fiery spice blend and no-fuss preparation, making it accessible for home cooks while staying true to its Southern roots. The shrimp, a staple of Gulf Coast cooking, shine in this dish, absorbing the smoky, spicy seasoning while retaining their tender, juicy texture. Whether you’re channeling a New Orleans vibe or simply craving a quick, flavorful meal, this Baked Cajun Shrimp brings a taste of the bayou to your kitchen.

Variations to Try

• Grilled Cajun Shrimp: Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side for a smoky, charred flavor.
• Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Toss the baked shrimp with cooked linguine and a light cream sauce for a heartier meal.
• Vegetable Boost: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the baking sheet for a one-pan shrimp and veggie dish.
• Gluten-Free Option: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for guests with dietary restrictions.

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