Description
Enjoy Flavor-Packed Baked Cajun Shrimp—succulent shrimp baked with zesty Cajun spices for a spicy, delicious meal. Perfect for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 cooked shrimp: Choose large or jumbo shrimp for a more satisfying bite. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure they are properly thawed if frozen.
- 2 tbsp canola oil: This oil has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the spice mixture, and its high smoke point makes it ideal for baking.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that enhances the Cajun profile.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Provides a sweet and savory flavor that complements the spices.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Offers a robust garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic, keeping it fuss-free.
- 1.5 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of the dish.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: This ingredient introduces a delightful heat to the dish; adjust according to your spice preference.
- 1/2 tsp thyme: Thyme adds an earthy note that balances the heat from the cayenne.
- 1/4 tsp oregano: Provides a subtle herbaceous flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that sought-after crispy texture.
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tbsp canola oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1.5 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp thyme, and 1/4 tsp oregano. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture will serve as the marinade for your shrimp.
- Coat the shrimp: Add 12 cooked shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the shrimp gently until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Make sure every shrimp is well-covered to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier. This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and get that nice crisp without burning.
- Arrange the shrimp: Place the marinated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. This helps in achieving a crispy texture on all sides.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and slightly crisp. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery if left too long.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oven and serve them warm. Pair with a lemon wedge for a fresh twist on flavor!