There’s something mesmerizing about the sound of shrimp crackling in a hot skillet—the sizzle almost sings of backyard barbecues and Cajun holidays. I stumbled upon this blackened shrimp recipe during a particularly lazy Sunday, and it quickly became my go-to for impressing friends and family. Imagine each succulent shrimp coated in a vibrant spice mix, seared to perfection, and tantalizingly charred—all ready in just 18 minutes!
As I drizzle melted butter over the top, the rich, smoky aroma fills my kitchen, transporting me to the heart of New Orleans. This dish doesn’t just satisfy my craving for flavor; it’s a celebration of simplicity and versatility. Whether served alongside jasmine rice, tucked into fresh tacos, or paired with a crisp salad, these blackened shrimp cater to all my culinary whims while being gluten-free and bursting with Cajun flair.
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary with this incredibly flavorful recipe!
Why will you love Blackened Shrimp?
Quick and Easy: You can whip up this Blackened Shrimp recipe in just 18 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Bold Flavors: The blend of spices offers a rich, smoky profile that takes your taste buds on a delicious journey through Cajun cuisine.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you toss them in tacos, serve over rice, or pair with a refreshing salad, these shrimp fit seamlessly into any meal.
Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and high in protein, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that meets various dietary needs.
Impressive Presentation: With their beautiful char and bright garnish, the blackened shrimp make a stunning centerpiece on your dinner table, sure to impress your guests.
For more exciting variations, check out my recipe for simple and flavorful shrimp skewers that add even more options to your dinner routine!
Blackened Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Extra Large Shrimp – Peeled and deveined for a hassle-free dining experience.
• Light Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point; ensures a perfect sear.
For the Spice Mix
• Paprika – Adds essential color and deepens the characteristic flavor profile.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides a hint of sweetness, balancing the spices in your blackened shrimp.
• Ground Black Pepper – Boosts the spice; adjust to taste for your desired heat level.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adds a kick; use cautiously depending on your heat preference.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the seasoning with rich umami flavors.
• Dried Thyme – Brings an earthy note to the spice blend.
• Dried Oregano – Contributes aromatic flavors that complement the shrimp beautifully.
• Onion Powder – Offers subtle sweetness and depth to your seasoning mix.
• Salt – Vital for enhancing all flavors; adjust according to taste.
For Serving
• Butter (melted) – A finishing touch that adds richness and brings the dish together.
• Lemon Wedges – Provides a refreshing spritz that brightens up the dish.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a vibrant, fresh garnish for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp
-
Prep Shrimp: Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp on a plate. Use paper towels to gently pat them dry, removing excess moisture for better seasoning adherence and a lovely sear.
-
Make Spice Mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the paprika, granulated sugar, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, and salt to taste. Mix well to create a flavorful blend.
-
Preheat Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring it’s nice and hot. A hot skillet helps achieve that perfect char on your shrimp!
-
Season Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp closely together in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the spice mix evenly over them, then flip the shrimp and season the other side equally for maximum flavor.
-
Cook Shrimp: Add light olive oil to the skillet and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 1 to 1.5 minutes until they’re beautifully charred. Flip each shrimp and cook until they’re opaque, about 1 minute.
-
Finish & Serve: Immediately transfer the shrimp to a serving platter, drizzling melted butter over them for richness. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a delightful zest.
Optional: Serve over jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Blackened Shrimp?
Transform your meal into a delightful experience with these perfect pairings that elevate the bold flavors of blackened shrimp.
-
Creamy Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice adds a refreshing contrast, complementing the smoky spices of the shrimp beautifully. The creamy texture enhances every bite!
-
Crisp Garden Salad: A bright, vibrant salad filled with fresh greens and veggies offers a crunchy counterpart that lightens up the meal, balancing richness with a refreshing bite.
-
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of freshly toasted bread gives a delightful crunch, perfect for soaking up any residual flavors from the shrimp’s buttery sauce.
-
Spicy Corn Salad: The sweetness of the corn, combined with a kick of spice, mirrors the heat of the shrimp, creating a fun fusion of flavors and textures.
-
Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, these noodles serve as a great base that absorbs the shrimp’s seasoning, delivering a guilt-free indulgence that won’t weigh you down.
-
Mango Salsa: The sweetness of tropical mango, combined with lime and herbs, provides a bright, fresh accent that wonderfully contrasts the smokiness of the shrimp.
-
Chilled White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Riesling beautifully complements the seasoning, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
-
Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note; this light, fruity dessert cleanses the palate, making it an ideal sweet conclusion to a spicy feast.
Expert Tips for Blackened Shrimp
-
Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the shrimp to achieve that perfect charring everyone loves in blackened shrimp.
-
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the shrimp in the skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming instead of searing.
-
Oil Choice: Opt for light olive oil or vegetable oil with a high smoke point; it helps achieve that desired crisp without burning.
-
Adjust Heat: Be cautious with cayenne pepper; add little by little, tasting as you go to meet your desired spice level.
-
Rest After Cooking: Allow the shrimp to rest for a minute after cooking for optimal juiciness and flavor retention before serving.
How to Store and Freeze Blackened Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked blackened shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To use, thaw in the fridge overnight or immerse the sealed bag in cold water for a quicker method before reheating.
Reheating: Heat your shrimp in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through; avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
Blackened Shrimp Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this dish to your taste and dietary needs!
-
Citrus Twist: Substitute lime for lemon juice to add a zesty twist that brightens the shrimp.
-
Herb Variation: Swap fresh parsley for cilantro for a unique flavor profile that’s fresh and vibrant.
-
Sugar-Free: Use a low-carb sugar substitute like Swerve instead of granulated sugar to keep it low-carb without sacrificing flavor.
-
Spicy Option: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your spice mix for a kick of heat that complements the shrimp beautifully.
-
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for an even deeper smoky flavor that will elevate your dish.
-
Grain-Free Base: Serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles instead of rice for a gluten-free, low-carb meal bursting with fresh flavors.
-
Vegetable Medley: Toss some sliced bell peppers and onions into the skillet for a colorful, veggie-packed meal alongside your blackened shrimp.
-
Savory Marinade: Marinate the shrimp in your favorite spicy sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking to infuse extra flavor and tenderness.
Make Ahead Options
These Blackened Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can season and marinate the peeled and deveined shrimp in the spice mix up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to refrigerate them to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. Additionally, if you prefer, the spice mix itself can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your shrimp, simply heat a skillet, cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, and drizzle with melted butter before serving. This way, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality Blackened Shrimp with minimal effort!
Blackened Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For this Blackened Shrimp recipe, I recommend using extra-large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. They will offer a satisfying bite and cook evenly. Look for shrimp that are firm, glossy, and smell fresh. If you’re buying frozen shrimp, ensure they’re flash-frozen to maintain their quality.
How should I store leftover blackened shrimp?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the shrimp’s tenderness, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, and avoid using the microwave as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Advertisement
Can I freeze cooked blackened shrimp for later use?
Definitely! You can freeze cooked blackened shrimp by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer until firm. After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. This method prevents them from sticking together, making it easier to take out just what you need.
What should I do if my blackened shrimp are too spicy?
Not to worry! If your shrimp turn out spicier than desired, try serving them with sides that mellow the heat, like creamy avocado or a cooling cucumber salad. Alternatively, you can mix them into a dish like tacos or rice to help balance the flavors. For future reference, adjust the cayenne pepper gradually when preparing your spice mix to control the heat better.
Is this blackened shrimp recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this Blackened Shrimp recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Always double-check the labels on any packaged items, like spices, to confirm they haven’t been cross-contaminated.
Can I use a different oil for frying?
Of course! While I recommend using light olive oil or vegetable oil due to their high smoke points, you can also use avocado oil or canola oil as alternatives. Just avoid using oils with low smoke points like extra virgin olive oil, as they may burn and impart a bitter flavor to the shrimp.
Savor Quick Blackened Shrimp with Bold Cajun Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp on a plate. Use paper towels to gently pat them dry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the paprika, granulated sugar, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful blend.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the shrimp closely together in the skillet and sprinkle half of the spice mix over them. Flip and season the other side.
- Add light olive oil to the skillet and cook shrimp for 1 to 1.5 minutes, then flip and cook until opaque, about another minute.
- Transfer shrimp to a serving platter, drizzle with melted butter, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges.