15-Minute Blackened Shrimp Recipe
This 15 Minute Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers a deliciously spicy and smoky seafood dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring a flavorful homemade blackening seasoning and quickly seared shrimp in a hot cast iron skillet, this meal is fast, easy, and versatile. Serve on tacos, salads, pasta, or rice bowls for a satisfying and protein-packed dish bursting with Cajun-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Ingredients
Scale
Blackening Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon regular paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds shrimp (31–35 size, peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other high heat oil)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, optional)
- 1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
Serving Garnishes (Optional)
- 1 lemon (for serving)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried basil. Stir well until fully mixed and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not prepped. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking. Coat the shrimp evenly with the blackening seasoning mixture, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add avocado oil and swirl it around to evenly coat the pan’s surface.
- Sear the Shrimp: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a slight char from the seasoning.
- Finish with Butter and Garlic: In the last minute of cooking, add softened butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well to coat the shrimp and cook for an additional minute to infuse flavor. Once all batches are cooked, combine the shrimp together and toss with the butter and garlic mixture.
- Serve: Transfer shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately over tacos, pasta, wraps, salads, sandwiches, enchiladas, or rice bowls for a flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for best searing and blackening effect.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure shrimp cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level according to your preference.
- The butter and garlic step is optional but enhances richness and flavor.
- Serve with fresh lemon and parsley to balance the spices and add freshness.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Keywords: blackened shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, Cajun shrimp, spicy shrimp, easy seafood dinner, shrimp tacos, cast iron shrimp
