This Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp is a tasty and quick dish that’s packed with flavor. Juicy shrimp cooked in buttery garlic sauce with a spicy Cajun kick make it a favorite!
You can whip this up in no time! I love serving it over rice or pasta, and let’s be real, some bread for dipping is a must. Who can resist that buttery goodness? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe as they hold up well to cooking. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work too! Just ensure they’re thawed and patted dry.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal because it allows you to control the saltiness. If you want a lighter alternative, you can use a blend of olive oil and butter or even ghee for a slightly different flavor.
Cajun seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own using a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. This way, you can adjust the spice levels to your taste!
Cayenne pepper: It’s optional, but if you love heat, consider adding more! If you prefer something milder, you can skip it altogether or substitute with a little black pepper.
How Can You Get the Perfect Sear on Your Shrimp?
The key to perfectly seared shrimp is all about the heat and timing. Here’s how to make sure they get that lovely crust without becoming rubbery:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp. A hot surface ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Cook them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. This allows for even cooking and browning.
- Turn the shrimp only once, when the first side is pink and starting to curl. This helps to lock in the juiciness.
Following these steps will give you shrimp that are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside! Enjoy cooking!
Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade blend)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for more heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to cook, making a total of 15 minutes from start to finish! It’s the perfect quick meal for busy days or a special treat that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the shrimp sear properly. In a bowl, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss everything together so the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices.
2. Heat the Pan:
In a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the pan hot enough that the oil shimmers, which ensures a good sear on your shrimp.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook without moving them for about 2 minutes. You’ll see them start to turn pink and develop a nice golden color on the bottom. Then, flip the shrimp over to cook the other side.
4. Add Garlic and Butter:
Once the shrimp are flipped, add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir gently to combine, and let the garlic cook for about 1-2 minutes while spooning the melted butter and garlic over the shrimp to keep them flavorful and juicy.
5. Finish with Flavor:
When the shrimp are opaque and fully cooked through, drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top. This adds a lovely brightness to the dish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat, and garnish your delicious shrimp with chopped parsley. Serve them immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, with some cayenne pepper for heat. Adjust the spices to suit your taste!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning. You can also serve with a hot sauce on the side for extra spice.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a refreshing salad or roasted veggies!
