Description
Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of the South with this Spicy New Orleans Shrimp recipe. Succulent large shrimp are sautéed in a buttery, garlicky sauce infused with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne for just the right amount of kick. Perfect as a main course, this quick and easy skillet dish delivers authentic Cajun and Creole taste with the fresh brightness of lemon and parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjusted to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the fats: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Heat until the butter melts and begins to sizzle, creating a flavorful base for the shrimp.
- Sauté the garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant without letting it brown, to infuse the oil and butter with garlicky aroma.
- Season the shrimp: Place the raw shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Evenly sprinkle the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt to build layers of spicy and herbal flavor.
- Cook the shrimp: Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the underside turns pink and opaque. Flip each shrimp and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked through and curled.
- Add lemon juice and toss: Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss gently to coat them in the buttery, seasoned sauce, adding brightness and acidity to balance the spice.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp, and serve immediately with lemon wedges to squeeze on top. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, grits, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every flavorful drop.
Notes
- Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a milder version of the dish.
- Use a mild Cajun seasoning if you prefer less heat but still want authentic flavor.
- This shrimp is delicious served over rice, creamy grits, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
- For a gluten-free meal, be sure your Cajun seasoning contains no added gluten ingredients.
