If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors but doesn’t keep you tied to the kitchen, this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, smoky, and spicy seafood treat that comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The magic lies in the robust Cajun seasoning and paprika blend that crisply coats the shrimp, delivering a mouthwatering char and kick of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a casual cook, this recipe promises a delightful, fuss-free meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish with fantastic depth of flavor, appealing texture, and irresistible color. Each component has its special role, from smoky paprika to zesty garlic, ensuring the shrimp shines in every bite.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up all the spices wonderfully.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Adds a mild pungency and enhances the overall savory profile.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Brings vibrant color and a sweet-smoky base to the blackened seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: Infuses the shrimp with classic Louisiana spice and warmth.
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect sear while keeping the shrimp tender.
- Optional remoulade sauce (mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, horseradish): Adds a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the spice perfectly.
- Additional spices (salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder) as desired: These build layers of flavor that make the blackening so addictive.
How to Make Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blackening Spice Mix and Coat the Shrimp
Start by mixing garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder in a bowl. This blend packs a punch of smoky, spicy, and aromatic notes that make the shrimp irresistible. Once combined, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this spice mixture until each piece is evenly coated, ensuring every bite offers that signature blackened flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot. Carefully place the shrimp in a single layer, giving them enough space to crisp up rather than steam. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side—this is where the magic happens with that dark, flavorful crust forming. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. This quick searing locks in juiciness while delivering a beautifully charred exterior.
Step 3: Serve Immediately with Optional Dipping Sauce
Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and offer remoulade sauce on the side if you like. This tangy, creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, and horseradish brightens each bite and adds a luxurious finish. The shrimp is best served right away so you can enjoy that perfect balance of heat, smoke, and tender seafood.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a herby freshness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky shrimp. A wedge of lemon or lime served alongside brings a zesty brightness that really lifts the flavors, making each mouthful more vibrant and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light and refreshing green salad. For an extra touch of comfort and flavor, try it alongside buttery garlic bread or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the blackened shrimp over warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and avocado for a fast and fun shrimp taco night. Or pile them atop a bed of creamy grits for a Southern-inspired feast. You could even toss the shrimp into pasta or salads for an elevated dish that impresses with its ease and depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping them chilled soon after cooking helps maintain their flavor and texture for easy reheating later.
Freezing
While fresh shrimp is always best, you can freeze the cooked blackened shrimp if needed. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month and thaw quickly when ready to use.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to restore some crispness without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery or tough.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to get a nice sear and avoid sogginess. Frozen shrimp can work just as well when handled properly.
How spicy is the blackening seasoning?
The seasoning has a moderate kick thanks to the cayenne and Cajun spices, but you can easily adjust the heat level by using less cayenne or adding more if you like it extra spicy.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own blend with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, and black pepper. This keeps the flavor authentic and fresh.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it safe and delicious for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-searing?
Definitely! Grilling adds a wonderful smokiness and char. Just brush the shrimp with oil, coat with the spice mix, and grill quickly on high heat for a couple of minutes each side.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe is truly a game changer for anyone who loves bold flavors without a lot of hassle. It’s fast, flavorful, and versatile enough to enjoy in countless ways. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover your own perfect way to savor these smoky, spicy shrimp. Once you taste that incredible blackened crust and tender shrimp inside, you’ll understand why this has become a favorite go-to in my kitchen!
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Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly charred and flavorful shrimp seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices and cooked quickly in a skillet. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a delicious and simple dish ideal for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. Paired with an optional tangy remoulade sauce, it enhances the bold flavors and offers an irresistible appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Cooking
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Remoulade Sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Whole grain mustard
- Capers
- Horseradish
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Coat the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss well until each shrimp is evenly coated with the spice mixture. This ensures all the shrimp will have a bold, blackened flavor after cooking.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up until shimmering but not smoking to prepare for searing the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until the shrimp start to turn pink and develop a charred, blackened crust. Flip the shrimp and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and opaque.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and serve immediately. Optionally, prepare and serve with remoulade sauce made from a blend of mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, and horseradish for dipping or drizzling for an added tangy flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing and charring.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity for your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh shrimp for best taste and texture.
- Remoulade sauce can be prepared ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with rice, grits, or a fresh green salad.
