Baked Cajun Shrimp Recipe
Looking for the best Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe? These juicy, oven-baked shrimp are coated in a bold Cajun seasoning blend, tossed in rich garlic butter, and finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick seafood recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, tacos, pasta, or as a delicious appetizer.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in only 20 minutes
Juicy, tender shrimp with bold Cajun flavor
Easy one-pan recipe
Low-carb and high in protein
Perfect as a main dish or appetizer
Great for meal prep
⏱️ Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients
For the Shrimp
2 lbs (900 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Garnish
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Extra melted garlic butter (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine:
Olive oil
Melted butter
Garlic
Cajun seasoning
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Cayenne (optional)
Lemon juice
Add the shrimp and toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and curled into a loose “C” shape.
Avoid overcooking.
Step 4: Garnish
Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve with lemon wedges and drizzle with any remaining garlic butter from the pan.
Step 5: Serve
Pair your Baked Cajun Shrimp with:
Steamed white rice
Garlic butter pasta
Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted broccoli
Caesar salad
Crusty bread
Corn on the cob
💡 Chef’s Tips
Use large or jumbo shrimp for the juiciest results.
Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere.
Fresh lemon juice added after baking enhances the Cajun flavors.
For a smoky grilled flavor, broil the shrimp for the final 1–2 minutes.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter to keep the shrimp tender.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 340
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 760mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw the shrimp completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before seasoning.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” and can become rubbery.
Can I make this in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
What side dishes pair well with Cajun shrimp?
Rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad all complement the bold Cajun flavors.
