Baked Cajun Shrimp

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 ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy dinner at home, or packing a protein-rich lunch, this dish will impress with its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Shrimp
• 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
• What is Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• How do I customize my Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked?
• What side dishes 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: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The smoky Cajun spices bring a burst of flavor that elevates the shrimp to a new level.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or tossed into salads and rice bowls.
• Low-Calorie Delight: At approximately 230 calories per serving, this dish fits well into healthy eating plans without sacrificing taste.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up on short notice.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the experience seamless. Having everything ready will save you time and ensure a smooth cooking journey.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Foil
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the shrimp, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and coating the shrimp evenly with oil and spices.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of spices, which is crucial for achieving the right flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 12 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the canola oil and cover the bowl. Gently shake it to coat all the shrimp evenly with oil.

Step 3: Mix the Spices

In a separate small bowl with a lid, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, 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 it to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with spices.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through and lightly crisped on the edges.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Baked Cajun Shrimp!

How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner, these shrimp can elevate any meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the baked shrimp hot with toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like remoulade or cocktail sauce for added flavor.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to create a filling main course.
• Add fresh herbs on top for color and extra taste.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas and fill them with baked Cajun shrimp, shredded cabbage, and avocado.
• Top with lime juice and fresh cilantro for a refreshing twist.

On a Salad

• Toss the shrimp on a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
• Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette to complement the spices.

With Pasta

• Mix the shrimp into your favorite pasta dish, adding garlic and olive oil for depth.
• Garnish with parmesan cheese for richness.

How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp

To ensure your Baked Cajun Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp offer better flavor and texture than frozen. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the shrimp in a single layer on your baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and become crispier.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice levels according to your taste. Adding more cayenne will increase the heat!
• Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your shrimp while baking; they cook quickly! Remove them as soon as they turn pink and slightly crisp.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your shrimp right after baking while they’re warm.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs well with various side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread enhances the meal’s flavor while providing a satisfying texture.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the spice from the shrimp and adds freshness.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrition alongside your shrimp.
5. Cajun Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice dish seasoned similarly to your shrimp can tie everything together nicely.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can soak up any leftover sauce from the shrimp, making them irresistible.
7. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance to your plate without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Cajun Shrimp, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the oil: Not using canola oil means the spices won’t stick well to the shrimp. Always coat your shrimp in oil for better flavor and texture.
• Overbaking the shrimp: Baking too long can make shrimp rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they’re heated through.
• Ignoring seasoning balance: Adding too much cayenne pepper can make it overly spicy. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Placing shrimp too close together prevents even cooking. Spread them out in a single layer for best results.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven affects cooking time and texture. Always preheat to ensure perfectly baked shrimp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Cajun Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of oil for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a flavorful dish made with shrimp coated in a blend of Cajun spices and baked until tender. It’s quick and easy!

How do I customize my Baked Cajun Shrimp?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini before baking for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste as well.

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked?

Yes, if you use fresh shrimp, adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through completely.

What side dishes pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Serve it with rice, a fresh salad, or crusty bread. It also complements pasta dishes nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Baked Cajun Shrimp makes a great meal prep option as it stores well and reheats easily.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is not only bold and flavorful but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various meals. Whether as an appetizer or part of a main course, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try today; you won’t be disappointed!