Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp

Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp is a flavorful dish that combines bold Cajun spices with tender, juicy shrimp for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfectly seasoned and seared in a hot skillet, blackened shrimp are smoky, spicy, and utterly irresistible. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, as it takes less than 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish. Whether served over rice, tossed in a salad, or stuffed into tacos, blackened shrimp is versatile, healthy, and packed with flavor.

The “blackened” technique, originating from Cajun and Creole cuisines, involves coating seafood, chicken, or meat in a spice blend before cooking it at high heat. The seasoning caramelizes on the surface, creating a delicious crust while sealing in the juices. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to achieve perfectly blackened shrimp with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blackened shrimp is the ultimate combination of fast, flavorful, and versatile. The spice blend delivers a bold kick, while the quick cooking time ensures the shrimp stays tender and juicy. This recipe is also highly customizable—you can adjust the spice level, pair it with your favorite sides, or use the shrimp in tacos, pastas, or bowls. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. With just one skillet and a handful of pantry staples, you can have this vibrant, delicious dish on the table in no time.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 5-7 minutes
• Total time: 12 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 6-8 shrimp

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 190
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails optional
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the blackened seasoning:

• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry shrimp sear better, so don’t skip this step!
2. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Blackened Seasoning

1. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are evenly blended.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the shrimp, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Skillet Method:

1. Heat a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a small pat of butter.
2. Once the skillet is hot, place the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re opaque and develop a golden-brown crust. Remove from heat.

Grilling Method:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
2. Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers for easy handling.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re opaque and slightly charred.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, tangy finish.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
3. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or a crisp salad.

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

Shrimp is the star of this dish, offering a quick-cooking, lean protein packed with flavor. Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) are ideal for blackening, as they hold up well to high heat and are easy to handle. Deveining and peeling the shrimp ensures they’re ready to cook and eat.

Blackened Seasoning

This Cajun-inspired spice blend is the key to the dish’s smoky, spicy flavor. Smoked paprika adds depth, while cayenne pepper delivers a fiery kick. Adjust the cayenne and black pepper to control the spice level to your liking.

Olive Oil or Butter

Fat is essential for the blackening process, helping the seasoning adhere to the shrimp while creating the signature caramelized crust. Olive oil is great for its high smoke point, while butter adds richness.

Technique Tips

1. Pat the Shrimp Dry: Dry shrimp sear better, ensuring a crispy, flavorful crust. Use paper towels to blot away any excess moisture.
2. Season Generously: Coat the shrimp thoroughly in the blackened seasoning to maximize flavor.
3. Preheat the Skillet: A hot skillet is crucial for achieving the blackened crust. Heat the pan for at least 2-3 minutes before adding the shrimp.
4. Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of searing.
5. Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooking can result in rubbery shrimp.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Tacos: Serve the blackened shrimp in warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
• Shrimp Bowl: Pair the shrimp with steamed rice or quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a balanced bowl.
• Pasta: Toss the shrimp with fettuccine or linguine and a creamy Alfredo or tomato sauce.
• Salad Topper: Add the shrimp to a fresh green salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp (thawed) works well too.
• Let the shrimp rest for a minute or two after cooking to allow the juices to settle.
• For a smoky kick, add an extra pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.

Recipe Variations

1. Extra Spicy Blackened Shrimp: Increase the cayenne pepper and add a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture.
2. Citrus-Infused Shrimp: Add lime or orange zest to the seasoning blend for a bright, citrusy flavor.
3. Blackened Shrimp and Grits: Serve the shrimp over creamy, cheesy grits for a Southern-inspired dish.
4. Herbed Blackened Shrimp: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for a unique twist.
5. Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp with scallops or fish fillets and blacken them together for a seafood medley.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Make-Ahead Option: Season the shrimp and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use avocado oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option.
• Pair the shrimp with cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb meal.
• Reduce the salt in the seasoning mix for a heart-healthy version.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with a creamy dipping sauce, such as Cajun aioli or ranch dressing, for a crowd-pleasing finger food.
• Dinner Party Main Course: Plate the shrimp with garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed asparagus for an elegant presentation.
• Buffet Table Favorite: Present the shrimp on skewers with a side of mango salsa for a colorful, flavorful dish.

Special Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet for optimal searing and heat retention
• Tongs for flipping the shrimp evenly
• Paper towels for drying the shrimp thoroughly

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is blackened seasoning?
Blackened seasoning is a Cajun-inspired spice blend made from paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.

2. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but the shrimp won’t develop the same crust. Heat the pre-cooked shrimp gently in the seasoning mixture to avoid overcooking.

3. How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the skillet is hot and lightly greased before adding the shrimp. Avoid moving the shrimp until they develop a crust.

4. Can I bake the shrimp instead?
Yes, bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. What’s the best shrimp size for blackening?
Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) are ideal because they cook quickly while still being substantial.

6. Can I use this recipe for other proteins?
Absolutely! This blackening technique works well with fish, chicken, or even tofu.

7. How do I store leftover blackened seasoning?
Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

8. Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and black pepper in the seasoning blend for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Perfectly seasoned and cooked in just minutes, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Whether you serve it in tacos, bowls, or on its own, the smoky, spicy shrimp is guaranteed to satisfy. Try this versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe today, and enjoy the taste of Cajun cuisine at home!

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