This Easy Blackened Shrimp is full of flavor and cooks up in just 15 minutes! With spicy seasoning and juicy shrimp, it’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty meal prep option! I love tossing it on a salad or in tacos for a fun twist. Who knew delicious could be this quick? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for this recipe. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp works too—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry.
Smoked Paprika: This gives the shrimp a smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika can work in a pinch. Just know it’ll be less smoky. You could also use chili powder for a slightly different taste.
Olive Oil vs. Butter: Both are delicious, but I prefer olive oil for a lighter taste. Butter will give a richer flavor, so use whichever fits your preference!
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your food. For a milder option, use a pinch of paprika instead or skip it altogether.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
The secret to blackened shrimp lies in the cooking method. The aim is to get that perfect char without overcooking. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the shrimp. This helps achieve that beautiful, charred exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—to get the shrimp evenly cooked and properly blackened, cook them in batches if necessary.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; 2 minutes per side is usually just right. They’ll turn opaque and slightly charred when done.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked blackened shrimp! It’s quick, easy, and delicious any time of year. 😊
Easy Blackened Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This blend will give your shrimp that amazing blackened flavor!
2. Get the Shrimp Ready:
Rinse your shrimp under cold water and then pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they’re nice and dry so the seasoning sticks well!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, toss your shrimp with olive oil or melted butter until they’re evenly coated. This helps the seasoning adhere and adds flavor!
4. Season the Shrimp:
Sprinkle the blackening seasoning over the shrimp and toss again to ensure every shrimp is covered with that spicy goodness.
5. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot; this will help create that wonderful char on the shrimp.
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have a nice charred appearance. Be careful not to overcook!
7. Serve It Up:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your blackened shrimp with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. They’re delicious served with rice, in tacos, or on a salad. Enjoy your quick and tasty meal!
In just 15 minutes, you’ve created a flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
FAQs for Easy Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika for a less intense taste while still keeping the dish flavorful!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover blackened shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the seasoning and coat the shrimp up to a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This will save you time during meal prep!
