If you’re craving a burst of bold, smoky flavor that comes together in a snap, this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the perfect dish when you want to impress without the fuss—a spicy, charred coating that locks in the juiciness of the shrimp while packing a punch of Cajun-inspired heat. Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute weeknight dinner or need a showstopper for guests, this recipe delivers that irresistible blackened crust and tender shrimp every single time. Plus, it’s incredibly simple and fast, so you’ll be savoring those flavors in just about 15 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but mighty, each bringing a vital flavor or texture element that turns ordinary shrimp into a dish bursting with character. From the fragrant garlic to the smoky paprika and spicy Cajun seasoning, every component plays a role in crafting that signature blackened taste you’ll love.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, fresh shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant, savory kick that complements the spices perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Provides smoky depth and beautiful color to the coating.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: The essential spice blend that brings warmth and complexity.
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps crisp up the shrimp without weighing them down.
- Optional Remoulade sauce (mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, horseradish): A creamy, tangy dip that pairs beautifully with blackened shrimp.
How to Make Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by mixing together the garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and other spices in a bowl. Toss the shrimp in this flavorful blend until they’re coated evenly. This step is crucial as it builds the characteristic blackened crust packed with bold flavors.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet and Cook Shrimp
Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is shimmering hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and that irresistible char. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a slightly crispy, blackened exterior.
Step 3: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, serve your shrimp straight away for the best texture and taste. Pair with the optional remoulade sauce or your favorite dipping sauce to elevate the dish even further.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the strong spices, adding a fresh contrast that makes the shrimp pop on your palate. Garnishing not only elevates the look but also layers the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, creamy grits, or a zesty coleslaw for crunch. These sides balance the spices while complementing the shrimp’s smoky profile perfectly. You can also serve it over a fresh green salad for a light, vibrant meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try stuffing blackened shrimp into soft tortillas for tacos, or add them atop a buttery pasta with a splash of lemon cream sauce. Another crowd-pleaser option is skewering shrimp for a colorful appetizer that wows at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Because blackened shrimp retain their texture well, they make excellent next-day meals or snacks without losing their flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked blackened shrimp by spreading them on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Reheating
To warm leftovers without sacrificing texture, gently reheat the shrimp in a hot skillet for just a couple of minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. A quick sear brings back that delightful crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure the best texture and even cooking.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne used. Feel free to adjust those to suit your spice tolerance—for more kick, add extra cayenne; for milder taste, reduce it.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your Cajun seasoning brand to be certain there are no hidden gluten additives.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The shrimp hold up well when stored and can be quickly reheated for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
What should I serve with the remoulade sauce?
The creamy tang of remoulade pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp. It can also jazz up simple sides like roasted veggies or corn on the cob for added flavor contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it strikes the perfect balance between bold flavor and effortless preparation. Whether you keep it simple or get creative with sides and presentations, it’s guaranteed to impress your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share your table. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this spicy, savory delight in your recipe box!
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Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers a flavorful, spicy seafood dish in just 15 minutes. Perfectly seasoned with a bold blend of Cajun spices and cooked in a hot skillet for a deliciously charred exterior and juicy center. Serve it with a tangy remoulade sauce for an irresistible appetizer or main course that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- Cumin, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Onion powder, to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Remoulade Sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Whole grain mustard
- Capers
- Horseradish
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mix and coat shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every shrimp is evenly coated with the spice blend.
- Heat the skillet and cook shrimp: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they begin to char and turn pink, then flip and cook the other side similarly. The shrimp should be fully cooked, slightly crispy on the edges, and opaque inside.
- Serve with dipping sauce: Remove the shrimp from the skillet immediately and serve hot. Optionally, prepare and serve with remoulade sauce made from mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, and horseradish for added creaminess and tang.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking and proper blackening.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture; thawed frozen shrimp can be used as well.
- Remoulade sauce is optional but adds a nice contrast to the spicy shrimp.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture as shrimp tend to overcook and become rubbery if left sitting.
