Baked Cajun Shrimp

Baked Cajun shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick to the succulent shrimp, creating a dish that’s both spicy and satisfying. Here’s a simple recipe for baked Cajun shrimp:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the shrimp are well coated with the seasoning.
3. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the shrimp.
4. Place the marinated shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp for added richness.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.
6. If you prefer a slightly crisp texture on the top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Remove the baked Cajun shrimp from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.
8. Serve the baked Cajun shrimp over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Enjoy!!