Spicy Cajun Shrimp

Bold, smoky Cajun spices coat juicy, tender shrimp in this quick and easy skillet recipe that delivers a satisfying kick of heat.

📝 Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp (16/20 count, peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup white onion (1/4" dice)
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper (1/4" dice)
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper (1/4" dice)
• 2 teaspoons minced parsley
• 4 lemon wedges

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Defrost the Shrimp - If using frozen shrimp, place them in a colander and run cold water until no longer icy, about 3 minutes. Alternatively, set them in a bowl and fill with room-temperature water until defrosted. Thoroughly drain and pat dry using paper towels.
2. 2Add the Cajun Seasoning - In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, 1 tablespoon olive oil, paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. 3Saute the Vegetables - Heat a 12-inch skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once hot, add the garlic and saute until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add the onion and saute for 90 seconds. Add the red and green bell peppers and saute for 1 minute. Transfer vegetables to a clean bowl.
4. 4Cook the Shrimp - Melt the butter in the pan. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook without moving until they turn pinkish on the bottom and start to curl, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook until curled into a loose “C” shape, about 1 minute.
5. 5Combine Ingredients - Add the sauteed vegetables and stir to combine for 1 minute, then turn off the heat. Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.