Baked Cajun Shrimp

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of bold flavors and simple preparation. Perfect for various occasions, these shrimp are coated in a smoky and spicy seasoning blend, making them an excellent choice for an appetizer, light dinner, or a protein-packed addition to salads and rice bowls. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Cajun cooking with this easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees satisfaction in just 15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavor: The combination of spices creates a smoky and spicy profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or toss them into your favorite salad or rice bowl for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories but high in protein, this dish fits well into any healthy eating plan.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking the shrimp on a lined sheet means minimal cleanup after enjoying your delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with the Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for coating the shrimp evenly with oil and seasonings.
• Cookie sheet: The perfect surface for baking shrimp while allowing hot air to circulate evenly.
• Foil: Makes cleanup easy by preventing food from sticking to the cookie sheet.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

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

For the Seasoning Blend

• 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

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How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with foil and lightly spraying it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, place the shrimp and add the canola oil. Cover the bowl and gently shake it to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

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

Step 4: Season the Shrimp

Add the seasoning mixture to the bowl of shrimp. Cover again and gently shake until all shrimp are coated evenly with spices.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

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

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once done baking, serve your Baked Cajun Shrimp warm. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp

Serving Baked Cajun Shrimp is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. These shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Lemon Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the baked shrimp just before serving to enhance the flavors.

Over Rice

• Serve the shrimp on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the spicy juices beautifully.

In Tacos

• Use corn or flour tortillas to make delicious shrimp tacos, topped with avocado and salsa for a tasty twist.

As an Appetizer

• Present the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties or gatherings. They make great finger food!

With Salad

• Add warm shrimp to a fresh salad, combining greens, avocado, and your favorite dressing for a light yet satisfying dish.

On Pasta

• Toss the baked shrimp with your favorite pasta and sauce for a quick and flavorful dinner option.

How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp

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

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper amount if you prefer milder or spicier shrimp.
• Do Not Overcrowd: Spread the shrimp evenly on the baking sheet. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispier.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding other spices like cumin or chili powder for unique variations of flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the shrimp right out of the oven while they are hot.

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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 fantastic options to consider serving alongside this dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the shrimp.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the spicy seasoning nicely.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness that contrasts beautifully with spicy shrimp.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy contrast to rich flavors.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Couscous: Fluffy couscous acts as an excellent base for holding onto sauces from the shrimp.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser and work well with flavorful dishes like this one.
8. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds creamy richness and crunch that pairs wonderfully with Cajun spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Cajun Shrimp is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overbaking can make them tough. Keep an eye on them and bake just until heated through.
• Not seasoning enough: A good Cajun seasoning makes all the difference. Don’t skip or skimp on the spices for full flavor.
• Using frozen shrimp without thawing: Always thaw shrimp completely before cooking for even seasoning and proper cooking time.
• Skipping oil: Oil helps the seasoning adhere to the shrimp. Always coat them well to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Crowding the baking sheet: Spreading shrimp in a single layer allows for even cooking and crispiness. Don’t overcrowd!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté the shrimp until warm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw shrimp for this Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe?

Yes, you can use raw shrimp. Just increase the baking time until they are cooked through.

What sides pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs beautifully with rice, salads, or crusty bread.

How spicy is this Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe?

The spice level depends on your preference. You can adjust cayenne pepper to make it milder or spicier.

Can I customize the seasoning for Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more herbs or spices based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cajun Shrimp is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or salad topping. Try customizing it with your favorite spices or serve it alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal.