This Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for any night! The shrimp are cooked in lovely garlic and buttery sauces with a hint of Cajun spice.
It’s super easy to whip up and can be served with rice or pasta. Trust me, the smell alone will make everyone come running to the kitchen! 🦐💨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well here. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can also substitute shrimp with scallops or even chicken if desired!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best flavor, but if you’re out, you could use salted butter and skip the extra salt in the recipe. You can also use ghee or a dairy-free option like coconut oil.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy Cajun seasoning or make your blend with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. If you like it milder, feel free to reduce the amount.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic in a pinch can work. Garlic powder can also substitute, but you’ll want less (about 1/2 teaspoon).
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice is a great substitute, and you can also use vinegar (like white or apple cider) for a tangy kick.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get it right every time!
- Make sure your shrimp are dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than sautéing.
- Heat the oil and butter until hot, but not smoking. This ensures a nice char on the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp—they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so be quick!
- Tossing in the garlic toward the end helps it stay fragrant without burning. Garlic cooks quickly!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lime slices, for garnish (optional)
Total Time Needed:
This delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is important as it helps them sear instead of steam. Season the shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Give the shrimp a little toss to make sure they’re evenly coated.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is hot before adding the shrimp.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes without stirring until they turn pink and start to char slightly. This is what gives them a lovely flavor!
4. Add Garlic:
Once the shrimp are looking good, flip them over and add the minced garlic right into the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the garlic smells amazing (but be careful not to let the garlic burn!).
5. Mix in Butter and Lemon Juice:
Now, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the fresh lemon juice. Toss everything well so the shrimp are beautifully coated in the garlic butter sauce.
6. Finishing Touches:
Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp for some fresh color and flavor. Add lime slices on top if you’d like to fancy it up!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp immediately! This dish is fantastic served on its own, over a bed of rice, or with some crusty bread for soaking up that mouthwatering sauce.
Bon appétit! 🦐✨
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own blend using spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, and oregano. Adjust the amounts to your taste, and feel free to explore other seasoning blends you love!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. You can add a splash of water or broth to help with reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you enjoy heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Just be sure to taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!