Baked Cajun Shrimp

Introduction

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish that brings bold flavors to your table. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying for everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Baked Cajun Shrimp because it’s not only easy and fast, but it also packs a punch with its spicy Cajun seasoning. Whether you serve it on its own, with rice, or in tacos, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a healthy option and works great for weeknight dinners!

How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp

Ingredients:

12 shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt
1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves
1/4 teaspoon ground oregano

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with foil and lightly oil it with cooking spray.
Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the canola oil, cover the bowl, and gently shake until all the shrimp are coated.
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano.
Add the spice mixture to the shrimp bowl. Cover and shake gently until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
Serve warm with a slice of lemon wedge. Enjoy!

How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp is great on its own as a snack or appetizer. You can also serve it over rice or pasta, or even toss it into tacos with fresh veggies. Don’t forget the lemon wedge for a fresh squeeze!

How to Store Baked Cajun Shrimp

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or microwave for a few minutes until warm. However, they are best enjoyed fresh from the oven!

Tips to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp

Make sure your shrimp are fully peeled and deveined for the best results.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less cayenne pepper depending on your taste.
For an extra kick, try marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes before baking.

Variation

You can customize this recipe with different spices. Try adding some lemon zest for a citrusy flavor or mix in some chopped fresh herbs after baking for a fresh touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can use regular paprika; however, smoked paprika gives a unique flavor that enhances the Cajun taste.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and spices ahead of time and bake just before serving.