Go Back
+ servings
Close-up of tender, juicy Cajun shrimp in a large silver skillet.

Easy Cajun Shrimp Recipe

Quick to cook and loaded with flavor, this easy recipe for tender Cajun shrimp will be the highlight of any meal!
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 5 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Yield:4 servings

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Tongs optional

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place large skillet on stovetop over medium heat. When pan is warm, add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and let butter melt completely, swirling and titling pan occasionally to distribute butter across entire surface.
  • When butter has melted, add ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, and 2 teaspoons paprika to skillet. Simmer spices in melted butter 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  • After 30 seconds, quickly but carefully place 1 pound raw shrimp in skillet, arranging shrimp in one even layer if possible. Cook shrimp, undisturbed, 1 minute.
  • After 1 minute, flip shrimp over and cook 1 to 2 minutes more or until shrimp are just opaque and curled into loose "J" shape. Be careful not to overcook.
  • Once shrimp are cooked through, carefully transfer shrimp to serving plates. Serve warm with pasta, rice, grits, and/or grilled vegetables.

Notes

  • Cayenne Pepper: For mild heat, use ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper. For medium heat, use ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
  • Make it Dairy Free: Use a dairy-free butter.
  • Make it Paleo/Whole30: Replace the butter with ghee.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1serving | Calories: 157cal | Protein: 23g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 198mg | Sodium: 719mg | Potassium: 356mg | Total Carbs: 2g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.2g | Net Carbs: 1g | Vitamin A: 780IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 1mg
Recipe By:Cheryl Malik