Spicy, juicy Cajun Garlic Shrimp can be cooked in just 15 minutes and served as an appetizer with toast or a quick dinner with pasta! This is a simple, no-fuss recipe that is loaded with Cajun spices, garlic, and a pop of fresh lemon and will disappear fast whenever served.
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Everyone can use a recipe that’s made in 15 minutes or less, right? And when that recipe is loaded with spicy, savory flavor and does double duty as an appetizer and a main dish, we are all in luck.
Why I Love This Recipe
The first time I made this recipe, I was in love. Here’s why:
- It’s quick with just minutes of prep time, but does not skimp on flavor. My favorite Cajun seasoning and garlic (which I always have on hand) give incredible flavor to tender shrimp, and lemon juice gives a pop of freshness.
- This recipe is so versatile. I’ve served it as an appetizer with garlic toast, for lunch over fresh salad greens, and for dinner with either pasta or rice.
- I can customize the heat level depending on how I’m serving it. I make it spicy when I serve it as a main dish and cut back a little on the heat when I serve it as an appetizer.
Ingredients Needed For Cajun Garlic Shrimp
- Large Peeled and Deveined Shrimp – I like to use shrimp with the tails on.
- Garlic
- Cajun Seasoning – whatever brand is your favorite.
- Butter
- Kosher Salt
- Fresh Parsley
What Is Cajun Seasoning?
It’s a richly flavored seasoning from Louisiana, the home of amazing Cajun cuisine. Most folks tend to put their own spin on it, but generally, it’s a spicy blend featuring paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano.
How To Make Cajun Garlic Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to a medium-sized bowl. Add garlic, then sprinkle on Cajun seasoning and toss to coat the shrimp.
- In a large-size skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook on one side for 3-4 minutes until seared. Turn the shrimp and cook another 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Place shrimp in a serving bowl or on a platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Can You Make This Recipe In The Air Fryer?
You sure can. Cooking seafood in the air fryer is super easy, and just like my Air Fryer Salmon, this shrimp will turn out tender and juicy.
Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Place the Cajun Garlic Shrimp in the basket and cook for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket at the halfway point. Keep an eye on the shrimp to ensure it does not overcook. The cooking time will vary depending on the model of air fryer you are using.
Tips For Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. The tails should be pink and the shrimp opaque.
- Cook shrimp with the tails on for more flavor that will seep out as they cook.
- Make sure that you do not over-crowd the pan when cooking.
- Finish off this Cajun shrimp recipe with a garnish of fresh parsley and lemon juice to brighten up the spicy seasonings.
What To Serve With Cajun Garlic Shrimp
- Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Noodles.
- Easy Roasted Broccoli
- Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
- Southern Style Green Beans
- Instant Pot Garlic Herb Rice
- Everyday Green Salad
More Easy Recipes You’ll Love!
- Best Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
- Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
- Air Fryer Sausage And Potatoes
- Crock Pot Country Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients
- 1 pound peeled, deveined shrimp with tails on
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- lemon wedges
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Add the shrimp to a medium-sized bowl. Add garlic, then sprinkle on Cajun seasoning and toss to coat the shrimp.
- In a large-size skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook on one side for 3-4 minutes until seared. Turn the shrimp and cook another 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Place shrimp in a serving bowl or on a platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Notes
- After cooking, the shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator and served chilled as an appetizer or on top of salad greens.
- Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Add more or less Cajun seasoning depending on desired spice level.
Nutrition
What I'm Making for Easter!
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Mike K
What size shrimp did you use?
Medium size or what ever is on sale. This recipe is very forgiving.
Enjoy,
~Donya
Linda
Delicious and easy! Exactly my kind of dish for anytime!
Thank you and I agree!
~Donya