Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is simple and delicious, delivering bold flavor with minimal effort. It is a perfect quick meal for busy weeknights or an impressive appetizer for gatherings. For another fantastic shrimp dish, try this Best Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Special Dipping Sauce Ready in 30 Minutes. Ready to get started?

Ingredients

This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe uses a simple, smoky, and aromatic spice blend that creates a flavorful crust on the shrimp.

• 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined, cooked
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp thyme leaves
• ¼ tsp ground oregano

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Total Time	22 minutes

Context: This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is ready in about 20 minutes, making it approximately 20% faster than many similar recipes that require marinating or more complex preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is essential for getting a nice sear on the shrimp without overcooking them. While the oven heats, line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2 — Make the Cajun Seasoning

In a small bowl, whisk together the spices for your Cajun seasoning. A classic blend includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. For a shortcut, you can use 2-3 tablespoons of a pre-made Cajun seasoning blend.

Step 3 — Season the Shrimp

Pat the raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels; this helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning. Place the shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and toss again until every shrimp is well-coated.

Step 4 — Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded. Leaving space between the shrimp allows hot air to circulate, which is key for even cooking and achieving a slightly crispy exterior.

Step 5 — Bake the Shrimp

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the Cajun shrimp for 6-10 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of your shrimp. They are done when they are opaque, pink, and have firmed up.

Step 6 — Check for Doneness and Serve

Check one of the largest shrimp for doneness; it should be opaque all the way through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery. The internal temperature should reach 120°F. Remove the baked Cajun shrimp from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Nutritional Information

Calories	185
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	3g
Fat	8g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Chicken Breast or Salmon — Swap the shrimp for a lean protein like chicken or a heart-healthy fish like salmon. The bold Cajun seasoning pairs perfectly with these alternatives.
• Cauliflower or Broccoli Florets — For a low-carb version, use hearty vegetables. They roast beautifully and soak up the spicy flavors of the seasoning.
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil — Use a high-quality oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option that still provides a rich base for the spices.
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning — Make your own spice blend to control the sodium and avoid any hidden gluten or additives found in some store-bought mixes.
• Zucchini or Bell Peppers — Add more vegetables to the sheet pan for extra fiber and nutrients, creating a complete, well-rounded meal.
• Lemon Juice or Vinegar — Brighten up the dish with a splash of acidity instead of additional salt, enhancing the flavors without the sodium.
• Smoked Paprika Kick — If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the cayenne and add smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor without the intense spice.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Baked Cajun Shrimp over a bed of creamy grits or fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious, spicy juices.
• For a lighter meal, pair the shrimp with a crisp, refreshing side like a simple green salad or roasted asparagus.
• Turn it into a festive appetizer by serving the Baked Cajun Shrimp in a large bowl with crusty bread for dipping and plenty of lemon wedges.
• Create a vibrant summer platter by arranging the shrimp alongside grilled corn on the cob, sausage, and red potatoes for a classic boil-style feast.
• For an elegant presentation, plate the Baked Cajun Shrimp atop a colorful succotash or a flavorful cilantro-lime quinoa.
• Serve the shrimp with classic Southern sides like collard greens, coleslaw, or hushpuppies for a truly authentic experience.

No matter how you serve it, this Baked Cajun Shrimp is a versatile dish perfect for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a lively gathering with friends.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using pre-ground Cajun seasoning that’s been in the pantry for years. Fix: Make a fresh blend or check your spices for potency to ensure your Baked Cajun Shrimp has vibrant flavor.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the shrimp on the baking sheet. Fix: Use a large sheet pan in a single layer so the shrimp roast instead of steam, achieving a perfect texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to pat the shrimp completely dry. Fix: Dry shrimp thoroughly with paper towels so the oil and seasoning stick properly for a flavorful crust.
• Mistake: Baking with the tail-on shell still attached. Fix: Peel the shrimp completely (or leave tails for presentation) to allow the seasoning to penetrate the flesh directly.
• Mistake: Using frozen shrimp without properly thawing and drying. Fix: Thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge, then pat dry to avoid excess water diluting the spices during baking.
• Mistake: Overcooking the shrimp, making them tough and rubbery. Fix: Bake just until opaque and pink, typically 6-8 minutes at 400°F, depending on size.
• Mistake: Not tossing the shrimp in enough oil. Fix: Use a sufficient amount of oil (like olive or avocado) to coat every shrimp, which helps the seasoning adhere and promotes even cooking.
• Mistake: Adding lemon juice before baking. Fix: Squeeze fresh lemon over the Baked Cajun Shrimp after they come out of the oven to brighten the dish without making the shrimp mushy.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the shrimp have cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Baked Cajun Shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat the shrimp in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which is the recommended food-safe temperature for reheated seafood. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Always allow your Baked Cajun Shrimp to cool completely before storing to maintain the best texture and ensure food safety.

Conclusion

This easy Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is a surefire way to bring bold, spicy flavor to your table with minimal effort. We hope you love it! If you’re craving more Cajun comfort, try our Fall-Inspired Hearty Cajun Potato Soup. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below!

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Baked Cajun Shrimp

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★★★★

4 from 1 reviews

A quick and easy baked shrimp dish seasoned with a flavorful blend of Cajun spices, perfect for a weeknight dinner or appetizer.

• Author: Sophie Lane
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Appetizer or Main
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined, cooked
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp thyme leaves
• ¼ tsp ground oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place foil onto a cookie sheet and lightly oil the foil with cooking spray.
3. Place shrimp in a mixing bowl and add canola oil. Cover and gently shake until shrimp are coated with oil.
4. In a small bowl with a lid, mix smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and ground oregano.
5. Add the spice mixture to the shrimp bowl, cover, and gently shake until all shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.
6. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared cookie sheet.
7. Bake for 10 minutes until shrimp are heated through and spices are fragrant.
8. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Notes

This recipe is very quick and easy, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Using cooked shrimp reduces cooking time and ensures the shrimp stay tender. Serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Nutrition

• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 190mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator first and pat them very dry with paper towels. This ensures the seasoning sticks well and the shrimp bake properly instead of steaming.

How do I know when the Baked Cajun Shrimp are cooked perfectly?

The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink, and their flesh becomes firm. They should form a loose “C” shape. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch them closely in the oven.

What can I serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp for a complete meal?

This flavorful Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also makes a great side dish for a balanced meal.