Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp

Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp are bold, flavorful, and perfectly charred from the grill. Coated in a homemade Cajun spice blend, these shrimp are ready in minutes and pair wonderfully with salads, rice, or tacos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with bold, smoky Cajun flavor
• Quick cooking—ready in under 15 minutes
• Great for weeknight meals or outdoor grilling
• Low-carb and high-protein
• Versatile for serving in many dishes

Ingredients

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

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried thyme
• Dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil and all spices until evenly coated.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers or cook directly on the grill.
4. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until opaque and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes

Variations

• Use store-bought Cajun seasoning for ease
• Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken
• Add a splash of lime juice or hot sauce for brightness
• Serve over grits or pasta for a complete meal
• Cook on a stovetop grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t possible

Storage/Reheating

• Store cooked shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through
• Not recommended for freezing once cooked

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw and pat dry before seasoning.

How do I prevent overcooking?

Grill only until the shrimp turn pink and curl—about 2–3 minutes per side.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

It can be. Adjust cayenne to taste for more or less heat.

Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes or broil for 5 minutes.

Do I need to marinate the shrimp?

No, just toss with seasoning and cook immediately.

Can I cook these on skewers?

Yes, skewers help with even cooking and easy flipping.

What sides go well?

Rice, grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, no dairy is used in this recipe.

Can I add sugar to the seasoning?

Yes, a small amount balances the heat if desired.

Are these good for tacos?

Absolutely—just add lettuce, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.

Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Grilled Shrimp are a fast and flavorful way to enjoy seafood with a kick. Whether served on their own or in tacos, salads, or bowls, they’re sure to impress with bold flavor and simple preparation.

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