This Baked Cajun Shrimp recipe is the perfect blend of bold flavors and simple preparation. Ideal for a quick appetizer or a light dinner, these shrimp are coated in a spicy seasoning blend that brings excitement to your meal. Whether served over rice or tossed into a salad, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- For Garnish
- How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Step 3: Mix Seasonings
- Step 4: Season the Shrimp
- Step 5: Bake
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
- As a Standalone Appetizer
- Over Rice or Quinoa
- In Tacos
- With a Salad
- With Dipping Sauces
- As Part of a Seafood Platter
- How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Baked Cajun Shrimp?
- How can I customize my Baked Cajun Shrimp?
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
- What do I serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy delicious shrimp in no time.
- Bold Flavors: The smoky spices create a mouthwatering experience that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or added to salads and bowls for extra protein.
- Health-Conscious: Low in calories but high in flavor, making it a smart choice for any meal.
- Easy Cleanup: Using foil on the baking sheet means less mess and easy cleanup after cooking.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools at hand. This will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Foil
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking and ensures that the shrimp bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Allow you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling, keeping your workspace tidy.
- Foil: Makes cleanup easier by preventing food from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures that the shrimp get a nice crispiness.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 12 oz shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon ground oregano
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Baked Cajun Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, place the shrimp and drizzle with canola oil. Cover the bowl and gently shake it to coat all the shrimp evenly with oil.
Step 3: Mix Seasonings
In a separate small bowl with a lid, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme leaves, and oregano. Shake or stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Season the Shrimp
Add the seasoning mixture to the bowl with shrimp. Cover again and gently shake to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with spices.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and lightly crisped on edges.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick! Enjoy your delicious Baked Cajun Shrimp!
How to Serve Baked Cajun Shrimp
Baked Cajun Shrimp is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or an appetizer, these suggestions will enhance your meal.
As a Standalone Appetizer
- Serve the shrimp warm with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Create a hearty meal by placing the shrimp over fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the flavors to meld together.
In Tacos
- Fill soft or hard taco shells with baked Cajun shrimp, topped with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of lime crema for a spicy twist.
With a Salad
- Toss the shrimp into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a light yet satisfying dish.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer various dipping sauces like spicy mayo or garlic aioli on the side for added flavor.
As Part of a Seafood Platter
- Include the shrimp on a seafood platter alongside oysters, crab legs, and other shellfish for an impressive spread.
How to Perfect Baked Cajun Shrimp
To ensure your Baked Cajun Shrimp turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will provide the best texture and taste.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Spread the shrimp in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference; less for milder shrimp, more for extra kick.
- Add citrus zest: Incorporating lemon or lime zest into the seasoning mix can brighten up the flavors.
- Check doneness carefully: Shrimp cook quickly; keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Experiment with seasonings: Try adding different spices like cumin or even chili powder for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Cajun Shrimp
Pairing sides with Baked Cajun Shrimp can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter complements the bold flavors of the shrimp perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing the spiciness of the shrimp.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate while enhancing flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with spicy dishes, making it an excellent accompaniment.
- Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest offers a bright contrast to the rich seasoning of the shrimp.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can add heartiness to your meal and are great for dipping in sauces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfectly baked Cajun shrimp. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the oil: Not using canola oil can lead to dry shrimp. Always coat the shrimp to keep them juicy and flavorful.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many shrimp on the baking sheet can cause steaming instead of baking. Spread them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect the texture and flavor. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
- Ignoring the cooking time: Overbaking shrimp can make them tough. Keep an eye on them and bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
- Using old spices: Expired spices won’t give you that bold flavor. Ensure your seasoning blend is fresh for optimal taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Baked Cajun shrimp will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Quickly sauté in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baked Cajun Shrimp?
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a dish made with shrimp coated in a spicy Cajun seasoning blend, then baked until perfectly cooked and slightly crisp.
How can I customize my Baked Cajun Shrimp?
You can add more spices like paprika or garlic, or include vegetables like bell peppers and onions before baking to enhance flavor.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they are thawed completely before following the recipe instructions for best results.
What do I serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Final Thoughts
Baked Cajun Shrimp is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe invites customization with various spices and sides. Give it a try, and enjoy its smoky, spicy goodness!
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Baked Cajun Shrimp
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 2 people 1x
Description
Baked Cajun Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a zesty blend of spices, making it perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is ideal as a quick appetizer or a light main course. The smoky seasonings tantalize the taste buds, while the easy preparation ensures that you can whip it up in no time. Serve over rice, toss into salads, or enjoy on its own—this versatile recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 12 oz shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp thyme leaves
- ¼ tsp oregano
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil, spraying it lightly with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp with canola oil, tossing to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the shrimp and toss until well-coated.
- Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
- Serve warm with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 170 mg