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Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

A quick and flavorful Cajun Shrimp recipe featuring tender shrimp coated in bold Cajun spices and tossed in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon and parsley. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or versatile addition to pasta, rice, or other meals, this recipe delivers a spicy, smoky, and buttery seafood experience ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs blend)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce and Garnishes

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Toss them evenly in the Cajun seasoning, making sure each shrimp is well coated to deliver the signature spicy flavor.
  2. Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet, then add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, infusing the butter with aromatic garlic flavor.
  4. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and add chopped parsley. Stir everything together and let meld for another minute before removing from heat.
  5. Serve Warm: Serve immediately to enjoy the silky sauce and juicy shrimp at their best.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking shrimp; remove promptly when pink and opaque.
  • Lightly toast Cajun seasoning in the pan beforehand to enhance aroma.
  • Add garlic after removing shrimp to prevent burning and bitterness.
  • Adjust cayenne and paprika amounts to customize spice levels.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, garlic butter sauce, spicy shrimp, quick seafood recipe, gluten free, easy dinner, appetizer