Baked Cajun Shrimp
Make spicy, tender Baked Cajun Shrimp in just 20 minutes! Perfect for weeknight dinners or a flavorful Southern-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon of dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, pat the shrimp dry and place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- Drizzle the shrimp with olive oil and sprinkle on the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything gently to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated—like dressing them in their Sunday best for a Cajun feast.
Step 3: Build the Foil Packet
- Tear off a generous sheet of foil and lay it flat on a baking tray. Pile the seasoned shrimp in the center, then drizzle the lemon juice on top. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Seal the Packet
- Bring the sides of the foil up and seal tightly, creating a pouch that will lock in the steam and flavor as the shrimp cook.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the foil packet on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve
- Carefully open the foil packet—watch for the steam! Let it rest for a minute or two, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve directly from the foil for that rustic, laid-back Cajun charm.