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This image shows a vibrant plate of 15-minute Cajun shrimp served on a white plate, featuring perfectly cooked shrimp coated in a flavorful Cajun spice mix, with rice or pasta as a serving suggestion.

15 Minute Cajun Shrimp Recipe

This quick and flavorful Cajun Shrimp recipe comes together in just 15 minutes! Juicy shrimp are coated in a zesty Cajun spice blend and sautéed to perfection, making it an easy and versatile dish for a weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 149 kcal

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.
    This image shows the ingredients for 15-minute Cajun shrimp, including peeled and deveined shrimp, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and olive oil, ready to be used.
  • Place the spices and oil in a large skillet.
    This image shows Cajun spices and olive oil being added to a heated skillet to create a flavorful base for cooking the shrimp.
  • Heat the skillet over medium-low heat, stirring the mixture continuously for about 30 seconds.
    This image shows the Cajun spice mixture sizzling in a skillet as it warms up, releasing its rich aroma before adding the shrimp.
  • Once the spices are aromatic, increase the heat to medium-high.
    This image shows the skillet heat being turned up to prepare for adding the shrimp, ensuring a quick and even cook.
  • Add the shrimp to the skillet and spread them out evenly.
    This image shows raw shrimp being added to the skillet, ready to be coated in the sizzling Cajun spice mixture for a bold and flavorful dish.
  • Sauté the shrimp, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are fully cooked, approximately 2-3 minutes.
    This image shows shrimp being sautéed in the skillet, turning pink and coated in the rich Cajun spice mixture for a quick and delicious meal.
  • Remove the shrimp from the skillet promptly to avoid overcooking.
  • Serve immediately as is, or pair with rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
    This image shows a beautifully plated dish of 15-minute Cajun shrimp, garnished and paired with rice or pasta for a satisfying and flavorful 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.