Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp

Every time I make Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It takes me back to my first trip to New Orleans, where the vibrant flavors and rich aromas of Cajun cuisine captured my heart. The spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning and the lusciousness of the butter create a harmony that is simply irresistible. Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping up this dish in no time, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp always impresses. It’s a reminder of how cooking can connect us to our memories and loved ones, making every meal feel like a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp

The ingredients for Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp are a perfect blend of simple yet flavorful. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s character. The fresh shrimp is the star of the show, while butter and cajun seasoning bring richness and spice. Together, they create a delightful experience for your taste buds.

• 2 garlic cloves: Freshly minced for a robust flavor that infuses the butter sauce.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps to sauté the garlic and shrimp perfectly.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: The key to that authentic Cajun flavor; make sure to use a mix you love.
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances the spices and adds a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides color and additional flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• 1 lb raw shrimp (shelled and deveined): The main ingredient that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• 2 tablespoons water: Helps create a sauce from the spices and butter.
• Green onion (chopped): For freshness and a pop of color in the final dish.
• Fresh coriander leaves: Adds a bright, herbal note to the dish.
• Red chili (sliced): For garnish and an extra touch of spice.

Putting Together Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp

Making Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Follow these simple steps for a delightful dish that will impress everyone!

1. Start by peeling and finely chopping the garlic. This will be the first step in building flavor. Combine the garlic with the butter and salt in a heavy skillet. The aroma will be inviting as it heats up.
2. Place the skillet over medium-high heat. As the butter starts to melt, keep an eye on it to prevent burning. You want it to become bubbly and fragrant.
3. Once the butter has almost melted, add the cajun seasoning, brown sugar, paprika, and the optional cayenne pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to toast slightly in the hot butter. This step intensifies the flavors.
4. Now it’s time to add in the shrimp. Carefully place the raw shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
5. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes without disturbing them. You’ll want to see them turning pink and opaque, indicating they’re cooking through.
6. After 2 minutes, stir the shrimp gently to ensure even cooking. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they’re fully cooked, glistening, and tender. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
7. To create a luscious sauce, add the water to the skillet. Stir well to release any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will help create a lovely sauce that clings to the shrimp.
8. Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. The shrimp should be perfectly cooked and coated in the flavorful sauce.
9. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh green onion, coriander, and slices of red chili for a pop of color and freshness.

Customization Ideas

There’s so much you can do to personalize your Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp. It’s a versatile dish that allows for creativity in the kitchen. Here are some tips to make it your own:

• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can add color and nutritional value.
• Change the protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein experience.
• Experiment with spices: Try different spice blends to create unique flavors that suit your palate.
• Use different fats: Instead of just butter, consider a mix of olive oil and butter for a different flavor profile.
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy sauce variation.
• Serve with different bases: Instead of rice, try quinoa or even over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.
• Garnish extravagantly: Top with toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and richness.

What Complements This Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp

Pairing your Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp with the right sides can elevate your meal experience even further. Here are some suggestions:

• Rice: Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Crusty bread: A good baguette or sourdough is perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce.
• Pasta: Toss the shrimp with linguine or fettuccine for a delicious pasta dish.
• Salad: A light garden salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make a great side.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, special occasions, or even as a festive meal during celebrations.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with quick preparation, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Its ability to impress guests while being simple to make is what truly sets it apart. I encourage you to try this recipe; you’ll be amazed at how a few ingredients can come together to create something so delicious and satisfying. Enjoy every bite!

Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp

The ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist! Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp combines fresh shrimp with rich butter and zesty spices for a mouthwatering dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering, you'll want to make this easy recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Cajun

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 2 cloves Garlic
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 pound Raw shrimp (shelled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons Water
• Green onion (chopped)
• Fresh coriander leaves
• Red chili (sliced)

Instructions

 

• Peel and finely chop the garlic then add it to a heavy skillet along with the butter and salt.
• Place over medium-high heat and allow to melt.
• Once the butter has just about melted, add in the cajun seasoning, brown sugar, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Stir together and once sizzling add in the shrimp. Give the skillet a shake to get the shrimp in a single layer.
• Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes, then stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.
• Add the water to the pan and stir well to release anything from the bottom of the pan.
• Remove from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with green onion, fresh coriander and chili as desired.

Notes

• Cajun seasoning can vary: Cajun seasoning can vary in salt content, so taste your final butter sauce and add extra if needed.
• Adjust the spice: Cayenne pepper gives this recipe a mild kick. If you like it spicy, then you can increase the amount to taste. Or leave it out entirely if your cajun seasoning is spicy or you want a mild dish.
• Use large shrimp: I like to use Large or Medium Large shrimp for this recipe. By the count, this is 31/35 count shrimp or 36/40 count shrimp.

Keyword buttery Cajun shrimp, Cajun shrimp recipe, easy shrimp dinner, Quick Shrimp Recipe

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!