This Cajun-Style Shrimp recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a taste of Louisiana! Plump shrimp are seasoned with a vibrant Cajun spice blend, then sautéed in butter and olive oil until perfectly cooked. With an optional lemon garlic parsley butter or remoulade sauce for dipping, these shrimp are bursting with flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner, an appetizer, or a casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: This recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Flavorful: The Cajun seasoning infuses the shrimp with a delicious blend of spices, while the optional lemon garlic parsley butter or remoulade sauce adds another layer of flavor.
Versatile: Serve these shrimp as an appetizer, a main course with your favorite sides, or even toss them in salads or pasta dishes.
Healthy: Shrimp is a lean protein source that’s low in calories and fat.

Ingredients for Cajun-Style Shrimp

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp:

Large or Jumbo Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
Cajun Seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade Cajun seasoning.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp.

For the Lemon Garlic Parsley Butter (Optional):

Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich and flavorful butter sauce.
Garlic: Adds a pungent flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor.

For Serving (Optional):

Remoulade Sauce: A creamy and tangy sauce that’s perfect for dipping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Cajun-Style Shrimp

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Increase the heat to medium-high. Once the pan is hot and sizzling, add half of the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Parsley Butter (Optional)

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in the parsley and lemon juice.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

You can either use the Lemon Garlic Parsley Butter as a dip for the shrimp or add the shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat. Taste and season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and/or lemon juice to your liking. Serve the Cajun-Style Shrimp hot with your favorite sides or as an appetizer with remoulade sauce for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Shrimp size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best results.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
Optional additions: Feel free to add other seasonings to the shrimp, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Serving suggestions: Serve the shrimp with rice, pasta, salad, or your favorite vegetables.

How to Serve Cajun-Style Shrimp

Appetizer: Serve the shrimp as an appetizer with toothpicks or cocktail forks.
Main course: Serve the shrimp with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Salads and pasta: Toss the cooked shrimp in salads or pasta dishes for a flavorful protein boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the shrimp gently in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can add more Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the shrimp.

Can I grill the shrimp instead of sautéing them?
Yes, you can grill the shrimp. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Can I make this recipe without the optional butter sauce or remoulade?
Absolutely! The shrimp are delicious on their own with just the Cajun seasoning.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Cajun-Style Shrimp. I hope you enjoy it!