Description
This Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, spicy shrimp cooked to juicy perfection with a slightly charred, flavorful crust. Ready in just 11 minutes, it’s an ideal quick meal for seafood lovers seeking bold Cajun-inspired flavors. Serve alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or in tacos for a satisfying and vibrant dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the blackening spice blend.
- Coat the shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in the seasoning mixture until each piece is evenly coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and develop a slight char on the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
- Serve immediately: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and serve hot, pairing well with sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or folded into tacos for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control the level of spiciness according to your preference.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding shrimp to achieve the characteristic blackened crust.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed) for best results.
- This recipe is versatile and pairs well with various sides including rice, salads, or flatbreads.
