Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper, to taste

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 5 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

2 Reviews

If you're on the hunt for a quick, flavorful dinner that's sure to impress, this Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp is your go-to. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that's both rich in flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion!

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp

Shrimp: The star of the show, providing a meaty texture and a mild taste that absorbs the Cajun spices beautifully. Opt for large shrimp for the best results.

Cajun seasoning: Adds that signature spicy kick. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less, depending on your taste preference.

Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the butter with an aromatic, savory flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Butter: Unsalted is best here to control the saltiness. It creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the shrimp.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, which helps prevent the butter from burning while cooking the shrimp.

Lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness and enhance the overall flavor.

Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note to finish off the dish.

Tips & Tricks

Pat your shrimp dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better.
Be mindful of cooking time; shrimp can go from perfectly cooked to chewy quickly.
If you like your dish extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors of the shrimp. For a bit of crunch, try serving it with some crusty bread on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?: Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?: You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano.
Is there a substitute for butter?: You can use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer.

Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large bowl and toss your shrimp with the Cajun seasoning. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for that full-flavor experience. Next, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, flipping when they turn pink and opaque. Set the cooked shrimp aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, toss in the butter and let it melt, then add the garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant and makes your kitchen smell amazing. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with a little salt and pepper to your liking.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and give them a good toss to coat them in that delicious garlic butter sauce. Let them warm through for another minute or so, then sprinkle with the parsley just before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Packs a punch with bold Cajun flavors.
Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find.
Perfect balance of spicy, garlicky, and buttery goodness.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque.

4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

5. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Save Print

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!