Baked Cajun Shrimp: A Flavorful Delight Straight from the Oven

Are you craving a taste of the Cajun South but prefer a healthier twist? Look no further than this delicious Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this mouthwatering dish right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, cooked
• Canola oil (for greasing)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground oregano

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grease a baking sheet with canola oil to prevent the shrimp from sticking.

2. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:

1. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, dried thyme leaves, and ground oregano. Mix well to combine.

3. Season the Shrimp:

1. Place the cooked shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mixture evenly over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated on both sides.

4. Bake the Shrimp:

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and the seasoning is fragrant.
2. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
3. Serve the Baked Cajun Shrimp hot as a flavorful appetizer or main dish.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: While fresh shrimp is preferred for optimal flavor and texture, you can also use frozen shrimp that has been thawed. Just be sure to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking.
• Adjusting the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper, or omit it altogether for a non-spicy version.
• Adding Lemon Juice: For a refreshing citrus twist, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the baked shrimp just before serving. The acidity of the lemon will enhance the flavors and brighten up the dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Low-Carb Option: This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for a low-carb or keto diet. Serve it alongside a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, use olive oil instead of canola oil for greasing the baking sheet. Additionally, adjust the seasoning to exclude any ingredients that may contain added sugars or carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked shrimp? A: Yes, you can use raw shrimp for this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly and bake the shrimp until they are pink and opaque.

Q: Can I grill the shrimp instead of baking them? A: Absolutely! You can grill the seasoned shrimp on a preheated grill for a smoky flavor. Cook them for 2-3 minutes per side until they are cooked through.

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs? A: Yes, you can use fresh thyme leaves and oregano instead of dried herbs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor intensity may vary, so adjust the quantities accordingly.

With its bold Cajun flavors and tender shrimp, this Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a party or as a main course for a weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try and experience the irresistible flavors of the Cajun South right in your own kitchen!