ven-Baked Cajun Butter Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and smoky paprika, this dish is both zesty and buttery, delivering a punch of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something delicious, these shrimp will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines bold, spicy flavors with the richness of melted butter, making it a savory treat that’s hard to resist. The shrimp are oven-baked to perfection—pink, tender, and infused with all the delicious seasonings. It’s a super easy and hands-off dish that can be ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special meals. Plus, the added Cajun seasoning gives it just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
Ingredients
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2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Prepare the Cajun butter mixture: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
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Coat the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them until fully coated in the butter and seasoning mixture.
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Arrange the shrimp: Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in a foil-lined baking dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced for consistent cooking.
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Bake the shrimp: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, curled, and fully cooked through.
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Optional broil for color: For an extra touch of color and caramelization, broil the shrimp for 1–2 minutes after baking.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Yield: 4 servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
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Total Time: 15–17 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Cajun Shrimp: If you prefer an extra kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add more garlic powder or minced fresh garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
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Herb Variation: Use fresh thyme or oregano instead of parsley to give the shrimp a slightly different flavor profile.
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Vegetable Addition: Add sliced bell peppers or onions to the baking dish for a one-pan meal that includes both shrimp and veggies.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the shrimp in a microwave for 30–45 seconds, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them fully before cooking for the best results. Pat the shrimp dry to remove excess moisture before tossing them in the seasoning mixture.
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink, curl into a “C” shape, and have an opaque interior. If the shrimp are still translucent, they need more time in the oven.
Can I use shrimp without tails for this recipe?
Yes, you can use shrimp without tails. While tails add a nice presentation, they are not necessary for the flavor or texture of the dish.
How spicy is this Cajun butter shrimp?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate level of spice. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder version of the seasoning.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp with the butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bake them fresh when ready to serve.
Can I grill these shrimp instead of baking them?
Yes, you can grill the shrimp instead of baking. Simply skewer the shrimp and grill them for 2–3 minutes per side until cooked through.
What can I serve with Cajun butter shrimp?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread or crusty bread is also a great choice to soak up the flavorful butter sauce.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of cayenne pepper. Fresh chopped jalapeños also add a nice spicy kick.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes, this recipe works well with other seafood like scallops, lobster, or even fish fillets. Adjust the cooking time according to the size and type of seafood you’re using.
Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil adds a nice flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning.
Conclusion
Oven-Baked Cajun Butter Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy any craving for bold, zesty flavors. The buttery sauce paired with Cajun seasoning makes this a perfect choice for an easy weeknight dinner or a special seafood treat. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch it disappear in no time!
