Baked Cajun Shrimp

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is bold, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The shrimp are coated in a smoky, spicy seasoning blend and baked to perfection. They make for a quick appetizer, light dinner, or a protein-packed addition to salads and rice bowls. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a fast meal, these shrimp will impress with their vibrant flavors.

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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 the Seasoning
• For Garnish
• How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
• Step 3: Mix Spices
• Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
• As an Appetizer
• Over Rice
• In Tacos
• With Salad
• On Skewers
• Paired with Dipping Sauces
• How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?
• What dishes pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Can I customize the spice level of Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices creates a robust flavor that elevates the humble shrimp into something extraordinary.
• Versatile: Enjoy these shrimp on their own, in tacos, or as part of a hearty salad; they fit any meal occasion.
• Health-Conscious Option: With low calories per serving, this recipe is great for those looking to enjoy seafood without the guilt.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking on foil-lined sheets means less mess and easy cleanup after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Foil
• Small bowl with lid
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for tossing the shrimp with oil and spices evenly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking and browning of the shrimp in the oven.
• Small bowl with lid: Perfect for mixing spices without making a mess; shaking helps combine flavors thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 12 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
• 1 tablespoon canola oil

For the Seasoning

• 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). While it heats up, line a cookie sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This step ensures that your shrimp don’t stick during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the canola oil over them. Cover the bowl and gently shake it to coat all the shrimp evenly in oil.

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a separate small bowl with a lid, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano. Shake or stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Add the seasoned spice mixture to the shrimp in the mixing bowl. Cover again and gently shake until all shrimp are evenly coated with spices.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through and lightly crisped around 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’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the shrimp warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. This makes for an enticing starter that guests will love.

Over Rice

• Place the baked shrimp on a bed of fluffy rice. The rice will soak up the spicy flavors, creating a delicious main course.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create shrimp tacos. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for added zest.

With Salad

• Add the shrimp to a fresh salad mix. Combine with greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a light and healthy meal.

On Skewers

• Thread the shrimp onto skewers for a fun twist. Grill them briefly after baking for extra char and flavor.

Paired with Dipping Sauces

• Serve with dipping sauces like remoulade or cocktail sauce. This adds variety and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp

To ensure your Baked Cajun Shrimp turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will taste better than frozen ones. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp while baking; overcooking can make them rubbery. Bake just until heated through.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. You can reduce it for milder shrimp.
• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavors, marinate the shrimp in oil and spices for 15–30 minutes before baking.
• Customize Seasoning: Experiment with other spices like paprika or lemon zest to create unique flavor profiles.
• Serve Immediately: Baked Cajun Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Make sure to serve right away for optimal taste.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Cajun Shrimp can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this flavorful seafood dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle for soaking up any leftover sauce or juices from the shrimp.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp and adds crunch to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the spices well and brings seasonal freshness to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad pairs beautifully with baked shrimp while adding protein and fiber.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the shrimp.
6. Cajun Rice: Spicy Cajun rice mirrors the flavors of the dish, making it an excellent choice as a side.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide comfort and texture that goes well with seafood dishes.
8. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a nutty crunch that pairs nicely with baked shrimp flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Cajun Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the oil: Not using canola oil can lead to shrimp that are too dry. Always coat shrimp in oil for better flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Leave them in the oven just until heated through.
• Ignoring seasoning balance: Using too much or too little seasoning can ruin the dish. Measure spices carefully to ensure a balanced flavor.
• Neglecting the baking sheet: Forgetting to line the baking sheet can result in sticking. Always use foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Not serving with lemon: Skipping lemon wedges means missing out on a flavor boost. Always serve with fresh lemon for added brightness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp

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

Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a flavorful dish made by coating shrimp with Cajun seasonings and baking them until perfectly cooked and slightly crisp.

Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use raw shrimp, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Bake raw shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.

What dishes pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?

This versatile dish pairs well with rice, salads, or as an appetizer with dipping sauces like remoulade or cocktail sauce.

Can I customize the spice level of Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste. You can also add other spices if you prefer more heat or different flavors.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cajun Shrimp is not only bold and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. It makes a great appetizer or main course and can easily be customized with different spices or served alongside various sides. Give this recipe a try for an easy yet impressive meal that everyone will enjoy!