Are you looking for a dish that’s sure to spice up your meal routine? Look no further than our collection of 20 Spicy Cajun Shrimp Recipes! From classic dishes like Cajun Shrimp and Grits to innovative creations like Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers, these mouth-watering recipes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or just want to spice up your lunch game, we’ve got you covered with our wide variety of delicious and easy-to-make Cajun shrimp dishes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the spicy and savory world of Cajun cuisine. From pasta to tacos, salads to casseroles, we’ll share some of the most mouth-watering recipes that feature succulent shrimp as the star of the show. So get ready to heat things up with our 20 Spicy Cajun Shrimp Recipes!
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of traditional shrimp and grits. The result is a spicy, savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup stone-ground grits
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Whisk to combine.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked grits and parsley. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
This spicy cajun shrimp pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a bold and zesty sauce, all wrapped up in a springy pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In the same pan, add cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in heavy cream and hot sauce. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Add some Southern flair to your summer gatherings with these flavorful grilled Cajun shrimp skewers. Marinated in a spicy blend of herbs and spices, these bite-sized morsels are sure to be a hit at any outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Cajun seasoning, and paprika.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these Cajun shrimp tacos pack a punch of spice and freshness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and avocado (optional)
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with shrimp mixture, Lime Crema, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Boil with Corn and Potatoes
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy seafood boil that’s perfect for a crowd! This Cajun-inspired recipe combines succulent shrimp, juicy corn on the cob, and creamy potatoes in a bold and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1 gallon water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, and kosher salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
3. Add the shrimp, corn, and potatoes to the pot.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A spicy and savory twist on a classic stir-fry, this Cajun shrimp dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the bold flavors of cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; stir-fry until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
This classic Southern sandwich combines the spicy flavors of Cajun cooking with the tender sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette. Get ready to taste the Gulf Coast!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 hoagie rolls (or French bread)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix shrimp with Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Toss until coated evenly.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Slice baguette into 6-inch pieces and toast lightly.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing shrimp on the bread, then add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional Alfredo sauce with the bold spices and succulent taste of Cajun shrimp. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine noodles with shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Cajun country with succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken broth and browned sausage back to the pot. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in shrimp; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your meal with this flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and sweet bell peppers. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and cooked rice. Cook until shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the shrimp mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with grated cheese (if using). Bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Corn Chowder
Get ready to spice up your lunch or dinner with this hearty and flavorful Cajun-inspired chowder. This creamy, spicy soup is packed with succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and a hint of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, and flour; cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and half-and-half or heavy cream.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Caesar Salad
Elevate your classic Caesar salad with a spicy kick from Cajun seasoning and succulent shrimp. This recipe combines the bold flavors of the Bayou with the timeless appeal of a great salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, hard-boiled and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and garlic. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and sliced egg.
4. Add the cooked shrimp to the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this bold and flavorful recipe! This Cajun-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing for a refreshing twist on the classic green.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mixed greens for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove the shrimp from heat and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Combine cooked shrimp, diced avocado, chopped scallions, and mixed greens in a large bowl. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the simplicity of fried rice, adding succulent shrimp and a kick of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
5. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg; scramble until cooked through. Mix with other ingredients.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, stirring-frying everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Crab Cakes
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with these savory shrimp and crab cakes infused with Cajun spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a cake shape.
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Transfer cakes to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits Casserole
A flavorful twist on the classic Lowcountry dish, this casserole combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits and spicy Cajun seasonings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked grits (stone-ground preferred)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and fully cooked.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked grits, shrimp mixture, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the casserole mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Black Bean Quesadillas
Cajun Shrimp and Black Bean Quesadillas: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
These flavorful quesadillas combine the bold flavors of Cajun shrimp with the heartiness of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and just cooked through.
4. Stir in black beans and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese; top with shrimp and bean mixture.
6. Fold tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
7. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until other side is also crispy and melted.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Potato Hash
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional hash! This Cajun-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp, crispy potatoes, and spicy seasonings for a mouthwatering breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, in a separate pan or oven-safe skillet, toss the diced potatoes with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
4. Combine cooked shrimp and potatoes in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy Cajun shrimp and zucchini noodles dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the zucchinis for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes or until softened.
3. Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the shrimp mixture over the zucchini noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and sweet combination. This recipe pairs succulent shrimp with a tangy mango salsa, perfect for topping tacos or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp and Cajun seasoning.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a separate bowl.
5. Serve grilled shrimp with mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
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