Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp

Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp is a bold, flavorful dish featuring shrimp coated in a smoky, spicy blackened seasoning and seared to perfection. Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish is perfect for tacos, salads, rice bowls, or as a protein-packed appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick—ready in 10 minutes
• Packed with bold, smoky, and spicy flavors
• Great for tacos, salads, rice bowls, or pasta
• Naturally low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free
• Uses simple pantry ingredients

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil or butter
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Dried oregano
• Dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
3. Sear the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer.
4. Cook: Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp. Enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add more cayenne or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
• Creamy Twist: Serve with a side of garlic aioli or ranch dressing.
• Grilled Version: Grill the shrimp on skewers over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or a fresh avocado salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

What does “blackened” mean?

Blackening is a cooking method where proteins are coated in a spice blend and seared at high heat to create a flavorful, slightly charred crust.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

What’s the best shrimp size for this recipe?

Medium to large shrimp (16/20 count) work best for even cooking and bold flavor.

Can I bake blackened shrimp instead?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat level, but you can adjust the cayenne to your preference.

What can I serve with blackened shrimp?

Tacos, salads, rice, pasta, or grits all pair well with this dish.

Can I use store-bought blackened seasoning?

Yes! Store-bought blackened seasoning is a great shortcut.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Yes! Butter adds richness and helps create a crispy crust.

How do I prevent shrimp from being rubbery?

Cook them quickly over high heat and avoid overcooking. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.

Can I use this seasoning on other proteins?

Absolutely! It works well on chicken, salmon, or even tofu.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Blackened Shrimp is a flavorful, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you serve it in tacos, over rice, or with a fresh salad, this recipe delivers bold taste in just minutes. Try it today!

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