If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors yet comes together in a flash, this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender shrimp kissed with a smoky, spicy crust created by a vibrant blend of paprika, Cajun seasoning, and aromatic herbs. It’s the perfect combo of fiery and fresh, making every bite a joyous experience. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends who love zest, this recipe brings restaurant-quality excitement to your table without the fuss or long wait.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each add their own magic. From the bright, smoky paprika to the punchy garlic and the rich olive oil, every element plays a role in layering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, shrimp cooks quickly and brings a tender, juicy bite.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Adds a subtle aromatic base that ties all the spices together.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Delivers a beautiful smoky sweetness and vibrant red colour.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: Packs a spicy punch with a mix of herbs and heat for that signature blackened flavor.
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for a perfect sear and to keep the shrimp juicy.
- Optional: Remoulade sauce (mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, horseradish): Adds a cool, tangy complement that balances the bold spices.
How to Make Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix and Coat the Shrimp
Start by gathering your garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and other spices like salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, thyme, black pepper, and onion powder. In a mixing bowl, combine these with the minced garlic to form a fragrant spice blend. Toss the raw shrimp in this mixture until each piece is generously coated. This step ensures every bite is bursting with that smoky blackened flavor.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook the Shrimp
Next, heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering hot. This is crucial because a very hot pan helps create that irresistible char on the shrimp’s surface. Place the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve turned pink with some charring — this quick cooking time keeps them tender inside while packing a flavorful crust.
Step 3: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, your Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe is ready to be enjoyed right away. The warmth and contrast between the spicy shrimp and a dip like remoulade sauce can elevate the whole experience. Don’t wait too long, because fresh blackened shrimp are best when freshly seared and steaming!
How to Serve Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of green and freshness that balances the heat wonderfully. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving brightens every bite with a zesty punch that accents the seasoning beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your blackened shrimp with fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious spices. For a healthy crunch, a crisp coleslaw or simple green salad works perfectly, providing contrast in both texture and temperature.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the blackened shrimp over a bed of buttery grits or tucked inside a warm tortilla with avocado and a drizzle of remoulade sauce for a satisfying shrimp taco. You can also skewer them for an impressive appetizer or serve atop pasta tossed lightly in olive oil and fresh herbs for an easy yet elegant meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the blackened shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 2 days and retain most of their flavor if properly chilled.
Freezing
To freeze, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer them to a sealed freezer-safe bag. Frozen shrimp are best used within 1 month for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the oven at a low temperature. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the shrimp rubbery and dry. A quick revisit to the pan will help bring back some of that fresh-cooked crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure the spices stick well and the shrimp sear properly.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the spice by reducing or increasing those amounts according to your preference.
What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning if I don’t have any?
A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper can replicate Cajun seasoning well. Feel free to customize the blend to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe without olive oil?
You can, but olive oil not only helps the shrimp sear evenly but also adds a subtle richness. Alternatives like avocado or coconut oil work too and can bring their unique flavor notes.
How quickly does shrimp cook when blackened?
Shrimp cooks very fast — usually about 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on size. Overcooking will make them tough, so keeping the timing just right is key to juicy, flavorful results.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe will become a favorite in your rotation because it’s packed with bold flavor but comes together so quickly. It’s the perfect dish for anyone craving something exciting yet simple to prepare. Give it a try and watch how it transforms your busy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings into memorable, delicious moments.
Print
Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe offers a bold and spicy flavor with a perfectly charred crust. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is ideal for a fast, satisfying seafood meal. The shrimp are coated in a flavorful blend of Cajun spices and quickly pan-seared in olive oil, making for a simple yet delicious dinner option. Serve with an optional homemade remoulade sauce for added zest.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Remoulade Sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Whole grain mustard
- Capers
- Horseradish
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, dried thyme, black pepper, and onion powder thoroughly to create a balanced and flavorful spice blend.
- Coat the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them with the seasoning mix until each shrimp is evenly coated with the spices, ensuring maximum flavor coverage.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating it is hot enough for cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a charred crust to form. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and serve immediately. Optionally, accompany with a homemade remoulade sauce made from mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, capers, and horseradish for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding shrimp to achieve the signature blackened crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan – cook shrimp in batches if needed to maintain a nice sear.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spiciness according to taste.
- Remoulade sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- This dish pairs well with rice, salad, or crusty bread.
