If you crave a dish that bursts with bold, smoky spices and succulent seafood, then this Blackened Shrimp Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Each shrimp is coated with a vibrant blend of paprika, cayenne, and herbs, seared to perfection in butter and olive oil, creating a juicy, flavorful bite that sings with every chew. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss, this recipe delivers that crave-worthy, restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but powerful ingredients is the secret to success with this Blackened Shrimp Recipe. Every spice and component works together to build complex layers of flavor, texture, and a stunning inviting color that makes the dish pop on your plate.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Make sure shrimp are fresh or properly thawed to ensure a tender, juicy bite.
- 2 tablespoons paprika: Provides a deep red hue and smoky flavor that is signature to blackened dishes.
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper: Adds just the right amount of spicy heat—adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a savory depth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall aroma and adds subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces earthy undertones balancing the spice blend.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a mild sweetness and herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Offers mild heat and pungency for complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and boosting the shrimp’s natural taste.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps create a golden crust while adding rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Allows for high-heat cooking without sticking and adds a fruity base note.
- Fresh lemon wedges, to taste: Squeezed over the finished shrimp for zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and lovely green color for presentation.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend
Begin by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Stir them together thoroughly to form an even, aromatic blend. This spice mix is the heart of the Blackened Shrimp Recipe, bringing its signature fire and flavor.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Place your peeled and deveined shrimp into a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil to help the spices stick, then sprinkle the prepared spice blend evenly over them. Toss the shrimp until every piece is coated well. For the best flavor, let the shrimp marinate for 15 to 30 minutes – this step really allows the spices to infuse and permeate deeply.
Step 3: Heat the Pan and Melt Butter
Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the unsalted butter, letting it melt completely. The butter not only accentuates the rich flavor but also helps create that irresistible crispy char that blackened dishes are known for. Wait until the butter starts to bubble but doesn’t burn before moving on.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to the hot skillet. Resist the urge to crowd the pan to ensure even cooking and that beautiful blackened crust. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, allowing them to turn dark and charred, then flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until they are perfectly opaque and juicy.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving platter. Immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over them to brighten the bold flavors. If you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a subtle herbal freshness. The dish is now ready for enjoying!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Blackened Shrimp Recipe hot for maximum flavor impact. The combination of smoky spice, buttery crispiness, and fresh citrus is simply irresistible when fresh off the stove.
How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Lemon wedges are a must-have garnish; their acidity cuts through the rich, spicy coating beautifully. Fresh parsley adds a lovely herbal brightness and a vibrant green splash that makes your plate look as fantastic as it tastes. You can also add thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Side Dishes
Blackened shrimp pair wonderfully with light, crisp sides that balance their boldness. Think fluffy white rice or herbed quinoa, a crunchy green salad, or even roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. For a Southern-inspired twist, serve alongside creamy coleslaw or buttery cornbread to soak up any extra spice and butter.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your shrimp atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or tucked inside warm tortillas with crisp slaw for a tasty shrimp taco. Another fun idea is to skewer the shrimp and grill for a party-friendly presentation that’s easy to eat. Serving with a cooling dip like ranch or a zesty aioli can also be a delightful complement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for up to two days. Avoid leaving the food out at room temperature, as seafood needs prompt refrigeration.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked blackened shrimp by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw them gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat your blackened shrimp, warm them gently in a skillet over low to medium heat with a touch of butter or olive oil to prevent drying out. Microwaving works in a pinch but can lead to rubberiness, so skillet reheating is preferred for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
What is blackened shrimp?
Blackened shrimp is a popular Cajun-style dish where shrimp are coated in a blend of spices and cooked at high heat, usually in butter, until they develop a flavorful charred crust. The result is spicy, smoky, and incredibly tasty shrimp.
Can I make this Blackened Shrimp Recipe mild?
Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness without losing the signature flavor of the other spices. It’s easy to customize to your taste.
Do I have to use fresh shrimp?
Fresh shrimp are ideal, but properly thawed frozen shrimp work just as well. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry for even seasoning and cooking.
What kind of pan is best for blackening shrimp?
A heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet is perfect because it holds high heat evenly and helps develop that beautiful blackened crust without burning.
Can I use this spice blend for other seafood or meats?
Yes! This versatile spice blend works great on chicken, fish, scallops, and even vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to bring smoky, bold flavors to many dishes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and bold flavors of this Blackened Shrimp Recipe. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, whipping up this dish brings warmth and excitement to your table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I enjoy sharing it with you—get your skillet ready, and dive into those irresistibly spiced, juicy shrimp!
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Blackened Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Blackened Shrimp recipe offers a flavorful and quick way to enjoy spicy, smoky shrimp with a perfect sear. The shrimp are marinated in a vibrant blend of paprika, cayenne, and herbs, then cooked in butter and olive oil to achieve a classic blackened crust. Served with fresh lemon wedges and parsley, this dish is ideal for a tasty, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Spice Blend
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste fresh lemon wedges
- to taste chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the spice blend: In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create an even spice blend.
- Marinate the shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp, then sprinkle the prepared spice blend on top. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 15 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add unsalted butter and let it melt completely, coating the bottom of the pan evenly to prepare for cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp develop a dark, charred crust on one side. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they turn opaque and are cooked through.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for brightness and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately: Serve the blackened shrimp hot to enjoy the optimal smoky, spicy flavor and tender texture.
Notes
- For less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper amount or omit it completely.
- If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley or cilantro can be used for garnish.
- Ensure shrimp are fresh or fully thawed to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure proper searing and blackening on the shrimp.
