Cajun garlic butter shrimp is a quick and tasty dish perfect for any seafood lover! It features juicy shrimp cooked in a mixture of garlic and zesty Cajun spices, bringing bold flavors to your plate.
Honestly, is there anything better than butter and garlic? I can’t resist pairing this dish with rice or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Yum!
I love how fast this recipe comes together—just a few minutes and you’ve got a fancy meal! It’s great for impressing guests or just treating myself on a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are key for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp work too—just thaw them first. Or, try chicken or scallops for a different twist.
Butter: I always use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. You can substitute it with olive oil or vegan butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy it pre-made or make your own with spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Adjust the spice level as you like!
Garlic: Fresh garlic has the best flavor. If you don’t have any, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder taste. Alternatively, use a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is all about timing. They cook quickly, usually taking just a few minutes. Here’s how to ensure they are tender and juicy:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear them nicely. This creates that beautiful char.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat.
- Watch for color changes: when shrimp turn from grey to pink, you’re close! They’ll also curl slightly when done.
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
Follow these tips, and you’re bound to impress with your Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp!
Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon wedge (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal to whip up on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
To start, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them sear nicely in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds. You want it to be fragrant but be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper all over the shrimp.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Let the shrimp cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they start turning pink and develop a nice slightly charred color.
5. Finish Cooking:
Flip the shrimp over and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in that delicious buttery garlic sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.
6. Serve Up:
Lastly, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp. Serve immediately with a wedge of lemon on the side for squeezing over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up all that yummy sauce!
Enjoy this quick, flavorful Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp with its buttery garlic goodness and bold Cajun spice kick!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them entirely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water. Pat them dry before adding them to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own by combining equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust the levels to suit your taste preferences!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help keep the shrimp tender.
What Should I Serve with Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp?
This dish is delicious served over rice or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
