Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet

This Best Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet is bold, buttery, and bursting with flavor. With juicy shrimp tossed in zesty Cajun seasoning and seared to perfection in just minutes, it’s my go-to for a quick, protein-packed dish that’s as impressive as it is easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Cajun shrimp because it’s ready in under 15 minutes, full of smoky spice, and incredibly versatile. Whether I serve it over rice, tuck it into tacos, or pair it with veggies, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s also easy to adjust the heat level to suit my taste, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or butter
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

directions

1. I pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and toss them in Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.

2. I heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. I add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and lightly seared.

4. I add the garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring it in so it doesn’t burn.

5. I squeeze in fresh lemon juice, give everything a quick toss, and remove from heat.

6. I garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 3 to 4 servings and takes about 10–15 minutes total. It’s perfect for a lightning-fast weeknight dinner or an easy appetizer for guests.

Variations

• I use smoked paprika and cayenne to make my own Cajun blend when I want more control over the spice.

• For a creamy version, I stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.

• I sometimes add bell peppers or onions to the skillet for extra veggies.

• When I’m serving over pasta, I double the sauce and toss everything together at the end.

storage/reheating

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave, but just until warm—overcooked shrimp can get rubbery. I avoid freezing this dish, as shrimp tend to lose their texture after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I just thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can keep them from searing properly.

How spicy is Cajun shrimp?

It depends on the seasoning mix. I taste the Cajun spice beforehand and adjust with more or less based on how much heat I want.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Absolutely. I thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely charred.

What should I serve with Cajun shrimp?

I love it over rice, in tacos, with grits, on salads, or alongside roasted veggies or a slice of cornbread.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use olive oil instead of butter for a fully dairy-free version—it’s just as flavorful.

Conclusion

This Best Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet is one of my favorite fast-and-flavorful meals. It’s spicy, juicy, and full of smoky goodness, perfect for busy nights or when I want to impress with minimal effort. Whether I keep it simple or dress it up, this dish never fails to satisfy.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings
• Category: Main Dish, Seafood, Skillet
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern / Cajun-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Best Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet is bold, buttery, and ready in under 15 minutes! Juicy shrimp are tossed in zesty Cajun seasoning and pan-seared to perfection in this quick and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, spicy seafood lovers, or crowd-pleasing appetizers.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly seared.
4. In the last minute of cooking, stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Add lemon juice, toss everything together, and remove from heat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.

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Notes

• Make your own Cajun seasoning with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
• Add bell peppers or onions to the skillet for extra veggies.
• For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream.
• Serve over rice, pasta, grits, or in tacos.
• Use olive oil for a dairy-free version.