Name: Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb. shrimp (20/24 count per pound, peeled, deveined, tails on or off); 2 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning; 2 tsp. packed brown sugar; ½ tsp. salt (to taste); 2 Tbsp. butter; 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); Lemon slices; Parsley (finely chopped)

Description

This Blackened Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful blend of Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and salt, then sautéed with aromatic garlic in butter for a quick and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these spicy and slightly sweet shrimp offer a perfect balance of bold flavors with a hint of citrus and fresh parsley garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

1 lb. shrimp (20/24 count per pound, peeled, deveined, tails on or off)
2 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning
2 tsp. packed brown sugar
½ tsp. salt (to taste)

Cooking

2 Tbsp. butter
2 cloves garlic (finely minced)

Garnish

Lemon slices
Parsley (finely chopped)

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Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Peel, devein, and optionally remove tails from all shrimp. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with proper searing.
Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and salt. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the shrimp and toss gently until all shrimp are well coated with the spice blend.
Heat the Butter and Garlic: Place a large cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely, then add finely minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 15–30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Cook the Shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2–4 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking time. The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and their tails curl up.
Serve: Remove shrimp from heat and garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a bright, fresh flavor finish.

Notes

Make sure shrimp are dry before seasoning to get the best blackened crust.
If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper works well.
Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook shrimp in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and blackening.
Serve with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.