Baked Cajun Shrimp
📝 Introduction
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a bold, flavorful dish that brings the rich culinary traditions of the American South to your table. Quick to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or whenever you crave something spicy and satisfying. The shrimp are coated in Cajun seasoning, baked to perfection, and often served with rice, crusty bread, or over a salad.
🌍 Origin and Cultural Significance
Cajun cuisine originates from the French-speaking Acadian people who settled in Louisiana. Known for its rustic, hearty dishes, Cajun cooking emphasizes bold spices and simple ingredients. Shrimp, being abundant in the Gulf of Mexico, is a staple protein in many traditional Cajun recipes. Baked Cajun Shrimp is a modern, lighter take on classic Louisiana flavors, offering the same intensity without the heaviness of frying.
🥘 Ingredients & Quantity
For 4 servings:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
➕ Optional Additions
- Chili flakes or hot sauce – for extra heat
- Sliced bell peppers or onions – roast alongside shrimp
- Parmesan cheese – sprinkle before baking for a cheesy crust
- Honey or brown sugar – for a sweet-spicy balance
- Corn on the cob or baby potatoes – to make it a fuller Cajun-style meal
💡 Tips for Success
- Use large or jumbo shrimp: They hold up better in the oven.
- Don’t overbake: Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooking can make them rubbery. Bake just until pink and curled.
- Even seasoning: Toss the shrimp well so each piece is coated.
- Let them marinate (optional): 15–30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor.
- Line the pan with foil or parchment for easier cleanup.
👨🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet or dish.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink, firm, and opaque.
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a slight char.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
🍤 Description
The final dish is a mouthwatering combination of smoky, spicy, and zesty flavors. The shrimp are juicy and tender, with a crisp edge from the oven. The Cajun spices create a warming, savory coating that pairs perfectly with the freshness of lemon and parsley.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 200–250
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: <1g
- Sodium: Varies depending on seasoning
(Note: Values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)
🏁 Conclusion
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a fantastic blend of simplicity and bold flavor. It’s a dish that proves healthy meals don’t need to be bland or complicated. Whether you’re cooking for guests or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.
👍 Recommendation
Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp with:
- Garlic butter rice
- Quinoa
- Roasted vegetables
- Over a salad
- In tacos or lettuce wraps
Pair with a light, crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a cold beer to balance the spice.
💚 Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish is a perfect example of healthful indulgence: satisfying your cravings with clean proteins and bold flavors, without excess oil, carbs, or processing. With simple swaps (like olive oil instead of butter or adding more veggies), you can make it even healthier. It’s proof that “healthy” doesn’t have to mean “boring.”