This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is bold, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Coated in a smoky, spicy seasoning blend and baked to perfection, these shrimp are perfect for a quick appetizer, light dinner, or protein-packed addition to salads and rice bowls. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- For the Cajun Seasoning
- For Garnish
- How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Step 3: Mix the Spices
- Step 4: Season the Shrimp
- Step 5: Bake
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
- As an Appetizer
- Over Rice or Quinoa
- In Tacos
- On a Salad
- With Pasta
- How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Baked Cajun Shrimp spicier?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for Baked Cajun Shrimp?
- What sides pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The Cajun spices create a smoky and spicy flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy these shrimp as an appetizer, or toss them into salads or pasta dishes for an extra kick.
- Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet packed with protein, this dish fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
- Easy Clean-Up: Using foil on your baking sheet means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make Baked Cajun Shrimp, having the right tools can make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Cooking spray
- Small bowl with lid
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Allows easy mixing of shrimp and oil for even coating.
- Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking and crisping of the shrimp.
- Cooking spray: Prevents the shrimp from sticking to the foil-lined baking sheet.
- Small bowl with lid: Perfect for shaking up the spice mix without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 12 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
For the Cajun Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon ground oregano
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl and add the canola oil. Cover and gently shake the bowl to coat all the shrimp evenly with oil.
Step 3: Mix the Spices
In a separate small bowl with a lid, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Shake or stir to mix well.
Step 4: Season the Shrimp
Add the seasoning mixture to the shrimp. Cover the bowl again and gently shake to evenly coat the shrimp with spices.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until the shrimp are heated through and lightly crisped on the edges.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Baked Cajun Shrimp!
How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
Baked Cajun Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s a versatile delight that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the shrimp warm with toothpicks for easy eating.
- Pair with a zesty dipping sauce, like cocktail sauce or remoulade.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Spoon the shrimp over fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Add some steamed vegetables for extra nutrition and color.
In Tacos
- Use warm tortillas and fill them with Baked Cajun Shrimp.
- Top with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
On a Salad
- Toss the shrimp on top of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
- Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to complement the spices.
With Pasta
- Mix the shrimp into your favorite pasta dish.
- A creamy Alfredo or a simple olive oil dressing works well here.
How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
To achieve perfectly cooked Baked Cajun Shrimp, follow these tips to enhance flavor and texture.
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield better flavor than frozen. Look for shrimp that smell clean and ocean-like.
- Don’t overcook: Bake just until heated through. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery. Aim for 10 minutes max.
- Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak the seasoning based on your heat preference. Add more cayenne for spicier shrimp.
- Marinate ahead: For deeper flavor, marinate the shrimp in the seasoning mix for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Use high-quality oil: Good quality canola oil helps the spices stick and enhances overall flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp
Perfectly paired sides can take your Baked Cajun Shrimp to new heights. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that complements spicy flavors beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw adds crunch and balances the heat from the shrimp.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that pairs well with any seafood dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring color and taste to your plate.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty complement.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables offers a light yet filling side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Baked Cajun Shrimp can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can derail your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the oil: Not using oil will prevent the spices from sticking to the shrimp. Always coat your shrimp evenly with oil for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overbaking can lead to rubbery shrimp; aim for just 10 minutes in the oven.
- Ignoring seasoning proportions: Using too much or too little seasoning can alter the taste significantly. Measure carefully and adjust according to your preference.
- Not preheating the oven: Starting with a cold oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat to 350°F (175°C) before baking your shrimp.
- Using unpeeled shrimp: Cooking shrimp with their shells on may result in uneven flavor absorption. Peel and devein them for better seasoning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.
Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They will maintain quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Baked Cajun Shrimp spicier?
You can increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Baked Cajun Shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking them to achieve the best flavor.
What sides pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
Baked Cajun Shrimp goes well with rice, salad, or crusty bread. They also make a great topping for tacos!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Baked Cajun Shrimp is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in both fridge and freezer.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe delivers bold flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare. It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste buds!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintBaked Cajun Shrimp
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a deliciously bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just five minutes of prep time, you can whip up this spicy seafood delight that’s ideal as an appetizer or a main course. Coated in a smoky Cajun seasoning blend and baked until perfectly crisp, these shrimp are not only tasty but also healthy—low in calories and high in protein. Serve them warm with fresh lemon wedges for added zest, or incorporate them into salads, tacos, or pasta dishes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this easy recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
- 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon ground oregano
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp and canola oil; cover and shake to coat.
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Add seasoning mix to the shrimp; cover again and shake to coat evenly.
- Spread shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until heated through and light crispy.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
