Baked Cajun Shrimp

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is bold, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a light dinner, these shrimp are coated in a smoky, spicy seasoning blend and baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a healthy meal option, this dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

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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 Mix
• For Garnish
• How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
• Step 3: Mix the Seasoning
• Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
• Step 5: Bake the Shrimp
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
• As an Appetizer
• In a Salad
• With Rice or Quinoa
• In Tacos
• 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
• Can I use fresh shrimp for Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• How spicy is Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• What sides pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Can I customize the spices in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The Cajun spices bring an exciting kick that elevates the taste of simple shrimp.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or toss it into salads and rice bowls for an added protein boost.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories yet high in flavor, this dish makes for a guilt-free indulgence.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking on foil-lined sheets means minimal mess and easy cleanup after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Cajun Shrimp successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cookie sheet
• Small bowl with lid
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spilling.
• Cookie sheet: A cookie sheet provides ample space for the shrimp to bake evenly without overcrowding.
• Small bowl with lid: This is great for mixing your spices quickly without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

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

For the Seasoning Mix

• 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

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

Step 3: Mix the Seasoning

In a separate small bowl with a lid, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Shake or stir well until mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Add the seasoning mixture to the shrimp in your mixing bowl. Cover again and gently shake to coat all shrimp evenly with spices.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes 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 Baked Cajun Shrimp!

How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light snack or a hearty meal, these shrimp can be paired with different sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Cocktail Sauce: Serve with a tangy cocktail sauce for a classic touch.
• Garlic Butter: Drizzle melted garlic butter over the shrimp for added richness.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss Baked Cajun Shrimp on a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and avocado for a fresh salad.
• Caesar Salad: Add the shrimp to a Caesar salad for a spicy twist on this beloved dish.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Cajun Rice: Pair with seasoned rice for a complete meal that captures the essence of Cajun cuisine.
• Quinoa Bowl: Serve over quinoa with vegetables for a healthy, protein-packed bowl.

In Tacos

• Shrimp Tacos: Fill corn tortillas with the shrimp and top with cabbage slaw and avocado crema.
• Rice Paper Rolls: Wrap the shrimp in rice paper alongside fresh veggies for a light bite.

How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp

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

• bold choice of shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• bold marinate time: Let the shrimp sit in the seasoning mixture for at least 10 minutes before baking to enhance flavor.
• bold oven temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
• bold single layer: Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam.
• bold check doneness: Keep an eye on them while baking; they need about 10 minutes or until just heated through but not overcooked.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp

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

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
2. Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw balances the heat of the shrimp beautifully.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for a nutritious pairing.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are an excellent choice for dipping into sauces alongside your baked shrimp.
6. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with veggies creates a refreshing base to serve under your shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Baked Cajun Shrimp turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the oil: Not using canola oil can lead to uneven seasoning. Always coat the shrimp with oil for better flavor adherence.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many shrimp together can cause steaming instead of baking. Spread them in a single layer for crispiness.
• Ignoring cooking time: Baking them for too long can make the shrimp tough. Keep an eye on them and bake just until heated through.
• Using raw shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are pre-cooked before baking. This recipe is designed for already cooked shrimp to keep it quick and easy.
• Not adjusting spices: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the cayenne pepper. Customize the spice level to suit your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months for quality retention.

Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat for even heating without drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh shrimp for Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Using fresh shrimp is fine; however, they need to be cooked prior to baking, as this recipe is tailored for pre-cooked shrimp.

How spicy is Baked Cajun Shrimp?

The spice level is adjustable. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.

What sides pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, salads, or crusty bread, making it a versatile dish for any meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Baked Cajun Shrimp holds up well in the fridge and can be used in various meals throughout the week.

Can I customize the spices in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or reduce any spices according to your personal preference.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is not only bold and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or as part of a main dish, it’s a quick option that’s perfect for busy nights. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it with different sides!

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