Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering spicy Cajun shrimp recipes! Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors, and when you combine it with succulent shrimp, you get a match made in heaven. From classic dishes like Shrimp Étouffée to innovative twists like Blackened Cajun Shrimp Tacos, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Louisiana, where spicy and savory flavors come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, these recipes are sure to spice up your dinner routine. So, grab your apron, don your best Cajun accent, and let’s get cooking!
Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine, making it a perfect dish for anyone looking to add some excitement to their shrimp. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika.
5. Add shrimp and toss to coat with the mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the shrimp to a baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp!
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy shrimp and grits dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits and a kick of heat from cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water and butter.
2. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp in cajun seasoning until pink and cooked through.
3. Combine cooked grits and shrimp in a bowl.
4. Top with green onions, cheddar cheese, garlic (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Alfredo Sauce
This spicy Cajun twist on classic shrimp pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the bold flavors of the bayou with the comfort of creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and tender, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Cajun Shrimp Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning and cajun spices with the simplicity of tacos. The result is a flavorful and spicy dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
– 8 tacos shells
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced yellow onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and cajun seasoning.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto shells, followed by red bell pepper, yellow onion, and queso fresco (if using).
6. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy one-pot wonder with this Cajun-inspired shrimp and sausage skillet recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, this dish combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and aromatic vegetables in a bold and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the shrimp and chicken broth; stir to combine.
6. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Get ready to spice up your grilling game with these mouthwatering shrimp skewers! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the simplicity of grilled seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– Bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning and garlic.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
4. Thread shrimp onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the tops of the shrimp with olive oil.
6. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Étouffée
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic Cajun Shrimp Étouffée recipe, a spicy and savory dish that’s sure to please. This hearty stew is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Gradually add flour to the skillet, whisking constantly.
5. Pour in fish stock and heavy cream; bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering Cajun shrimp po’ boy sandwich recipe! This spicy and savory sandwich is a classic combination of crispy fried shrimp, creamy remoulade sauce, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and melted American cheese on toasted French bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 slices French bread
– Lettuce, tomatoes, remoulade sauce, and American cheese
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
3. Dip shrimp into buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on toasted French bread, adding fried shrimp, lettuce, tomatoes, and American cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with succulent shrimp and sweet corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add corn, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning; stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Cajun Shrimp and Rice
This recipe brings together the flavors of the Bayou in a single pan, with succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce and served over fluffy rice. A quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
6. Add shrimp; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, these Cajun-inspired bell peppers pack a punch with succulent shrimp and savory spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, onion, and garlic until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the shrimp mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of avocado, perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately on top of chopped romaine lettuce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Jambalaya
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and savory Cajun shrimp jambalaya recipe. This one-pot wonder combines succulent shrimp, sausage, chicken, and vegetables in a rich tomato-based broth, perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup long-grain rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add cooked sausage and chicken back into the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot over rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Crab Boil
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this easy and delicious Cajun shrimp and crab boil recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the shrimp and crab. Add Cajun and Old Bay seasonings.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add the shrimp and crab meat to the pot. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy Cajun shrimp fried rice recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Push the shrimp mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it into the empty side of the skillet.
6. Mix the cooked rice with soy sauce and add it to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together until combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Cajun Shrimp and Okra Gumbo
This hearty gumbo recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender okra, smoky andouille sausage, and a rich dark roux for a true Louisiana culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 cups andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons dark roux (see note)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add okra and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add rice and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Stir in dark roux and serve hot.
Note: To make dark roux, combine 2 tablespoons flour and 2 tablespoons oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns dark brown and has a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
Cajun Shrimp Scampi
Add some Cajun flair to your shrimp scampi with this bold and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Potato Bake
Savor the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty shrimp and potato bake, infused with spicy Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the shrimp mixture on top of the potatoes.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the shrimp and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the nutty taste of quinoa, topped with succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, onion, garlic, and paprika.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked quinoa and shrimp in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cajun Shrimp with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the brightness of lemon butter, resulting in a dish that’s both spicy and sophisticated. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce the heat to medium; add the lemon juice.
6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the shrimp with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top; garnish with parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these mouthwatering Cajun shrimp recipes! From classic dishes like Shrimp and Grits to bold twists like Blackened Tacos, there’s something for everyone. Try indulging in creamy Alfredo sauce or rich gumbo, or go for a lighter option like a refreshing salad or quinoa bowl. These 20 spicy Cajun shrimp recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the bold flavors of Louisiana with these mouthwatering dishes!