Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a simple, flavorful dish that brings a spicy kick to your meal. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, these shrimp are baked to perfection, making them a quick and healthy option for dinner or appetizers. The easy-to-follow recipe uses minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Arrange shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

1. Add More Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking sheet for extra flavor and color.
2. Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier version.
3. Grilled Cajun Shrimp: Instead of baking, grill the shrimp for a smoky flavor. Simply thread them onto skewers before grilling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
2. Can I cook this dish on a stovetop instead of in the oven? Yes, you can sauté the shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Can I substitute the olive oil? Yes, you can substitute olive oil with melted butter or avocado oil.
4. How can I adjust the spice level? Increase the cayenne pepper for more heat or reduce it for a milder version.
5. What should I serve with Cajun shrimp? Serve with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? The shrimp is best when fresh, but you can marinate them in the spices and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before baking.
7. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked? The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when they are fully cooked. They should not be translucent.
8. Can I use shrimp with shells on? Yes, you can. Just make sure to remove the shells before serving for easier eating.
9. Can I add other seasonings? Yes, feel free to add other seasonings such as cumin, garlic powder, or onion powder.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake the shrimp in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

Baked Cajun Shrimp is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. The blend of spices and the quick baking process make this a perfect choice for a fast weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and full of bold flavors.

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