Welcome to Afterka’s kitchen! If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish that’s packed with flavor, our Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is perfect for you. This dish is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The bold Cajun spices and tender shrimp come together in a delightful harmony that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Bake the Shrimp
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Step 4: Serve
- Transfer the baked shrimp to a serving platter.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for a complete meal. Toss the vegetables with a bit of olive oil and Cajun seasoning before baking.
- Grill Option: For a smoky flavor, skewer the shrimp and grill them over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix to control the heat level.
- Make Ahead: Marinate the shrimp in the seasoning mixture for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for even more flavor.
This Quick and Easy Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger meal. The bold Cajun spices and tender shrimp make this dish a standout that you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish! Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media.