Description
Deliciously seasoned Cajun shrimp cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb. raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chicken broth (or water)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels—this helps them sear better and soak up the seasoning.
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Let them sit while your skillet heats up. This little rest time lets the spices start working their magic.
- Heat It Up: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan—you want a good sear.
- Sear and Flip: Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and have a bit of char. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Build the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then stir in lemon juice, brown sugar, and a splash of chicken broth.
- Bring It Together: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the buttery sauce to coat. Cook for another minute, just until everything is glossy and sizzling.
- Serve and Savor: Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot with rice, grits, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
Notes
- This dish can be served with various sides such as rice, grits, or crusty bread.
- Optionally add more spices if you enjoy a spicier flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg