How to Make the Perfect Blackened Shrimp
Cajun · Easy · 10 min · 4 servings
These boldly spiced blackened shrimp cook in under 5 minutes making them one of the fastest high protein quick recipes you can make. A homemade blackening spice blend creates a deeply flavored crust that is smoky and slightly spicy.
Why this recipe works
This Blackened Shrimp recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 10 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 210 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp butter
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix Blackening Spice
Combine smoked paprika garlic powder cayenne and dried oregano in a small bowl. Toss shrimp in the spice blend until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Heat butter in a cast iron skillet over high heat until the butter begins to smoke slightly. A very hot pan is essential for the blackened crust to form.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until the spices are deeply charred and shrimp curl into a C shape indicating doneness.
Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately with lemon wedges over rice grits or in tacos for a complete quick meal.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- shrimp → sliced chicken breast for a blackened chicken variation
- butter → avocado oil for a dairy free high heat cooking option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using a pan that is not hot enough which prevents the signature blackened crust from forming
- Overcooking shrimp past the C shape curl which makes them rubbery and tough
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 210 calories, 28g protein, 3g carbs, 9g fat, 1g fiber.
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