BAKED CAJUN SHRIMP

 

Baked Cajun Shrimp: A Flavor-Packed, Easy Seafood Delight

If you crave bold flavors with minimal effort, Baked Cajun Shrimp is a perfect choice. This dish combines juicy shrimp with a vibrant Cajun spice blend, baked to perfection for a quick, healthy, and downright delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or a game day snack, these shrimp bring the heat and the flavor without complicated prep or cleanup.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: Ready in just 20 minutes—great for busy nights.

• Big flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick that elevates the shrimp.

• Healthy & protein-packed: Low in calories but rich in protein, perfect for clean eating.

• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, over rice, in tacos, or with a fresh salad.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the shrimp. Toss well to coat each piece evenly with the spices.

Step 3: Bake the Shrimp

Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy and tender.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty punch.

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Serving Suggestions

• Over rice or quinoa: Let the flavorful juices soak into your grains.

• In tacos: Add cabbage slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema.

• With crusty bread: Soak up all the spicy Cajun butter sauce.

• As a salad topper: Add protein and spice to a fresh green salad.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give shrimp space to cook evenly.

• Customize your heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne for more spice.

• Use fresh shrimp: For best texture and flavor, fresh is ideal, but frozen works fine if thawed properly.

• Watch the cooking time: Shrimp cook fast—overcooking makes them rubbery.

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Conclusion

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that packs a punch without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for seafood lovers who want a simple meal with big taste. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine right at home!