There’s something magical about a recipe that delivers explosive flavor with minimal effort, and this 15-minute Cajun Shrimp recipe does just that. One bite of these sizzling, spice-coated shrimp, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a busy Louisiana kitchen.
You will have a complete crackle of garlic on a hot skillet and the rich aroma of smoky paprika and garlic filling the air. I first fell in love with Cajun cooking on a summer road trip through the South, where every meal felt like a celebration of bold spices and fresh ingredients.
Recreating that experience at home, I realized how quickly Cajun shrimp comes together—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The secret? A simple spice blend that you probably already have in your pantry and a quick sear that locks in all the juices.
This recipe is trending for a reason: shrimp are low in calories but high in protein, making this dish a dream for anyone looking to eat lighter without sacrificing flavor. Quick to cook, visually stunning, and unapologetically flavorful—this dish is proof that sometimes, less really is more.
Perfect For Summer Gatherings!
- The perfect balance of heat and savoriness, great for any crowd.
- Ready in just 15 minutes—ideal for a last-minute dinner idea.
- Works beautifully for meal prep; the shrimp stay tender and flavorful even when reheated.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or grains.
- A guaranteed hit at summer cookouts, with flavors bold enough to shine on any plate.
15 Minute Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Tongs
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 lb uncooked shrimp peeled and deveined
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper use up to ¼ teaspoon for spicier shrimp
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Gather smoked paprika, thyme, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and oil.
- Place the spices and oil in a large skillet.
- Heat the skillet over medium-low heat, stirring the mixture continuously for about 30 seconds.
- Once the spices are aromatic, increase the heat to medium-high.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and spread them out evenly.
- Sauté the shrimp, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are fully cooked, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet promptly to avoid overcooking.
- Serve immediately as is, or pair with rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, marinate the shrimp in the spice blend for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Use fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp for the best texture and taste.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 149kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Protein | 23g |
| Cholesterol | 286g |
Variations That Will Help You Customize Your Dish!
- Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist. Sauté them with the shrimp for a balanced meal.
- Switch the Protein: Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even scallops for a new flavor profile while keeping the Cajun spice blend intact.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after cooking the shrimp for a creamy Cajun sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta or rice.
- Boost the Heat: Crank up the spice by adding extra cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
- Add a Zesty Touch: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a tangy, bright flavor.
