Blackened Shrimp
Juicy, plump shrimp coated in a bold Cajun spice blend and seared in a blazing hot skillet. This classic New Orleans dish is smoky, spicy, and ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Shrimp and Spice Blend
- b.In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. This is your blackening seasoning.
- c.Rinse the shrimp and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear instead of steaming the shrimp.
- d.Place the dry shrimp in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over them and toss gently until every shrimp is evenly and generously coated.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Blacken the Shrimp
- b.Place a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Let it heat for 5-7 minutes until it is extremely hot, just to the point of smoking. Proper ventilation is key, so open a window or turn on your exhaust fan.
- c.While the pan heats, melt the butter in a small, separate bowl.
- d.Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, dip each seasoned shrimp into the melted butter, letting any excess drip off.
- e.Carefully place the butter-coated shrimp in the hot skillet in a single layer. You should hear a loud sizzle immediately.
- f.Sear for 60-90 seconds on the first side. The spices will char and become dark, forming a crust. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 60 seconds on the other side, or until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
- g.Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining shrimp, adding more butter to the pan if needed.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Once all the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter.
- c.Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
- d.Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up all the flavors.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1A cast-iron skillet is highly recommended for blackening as it holds high heat evenly, which is essential for creating the signature crust.
- 2Do not skip drying the shrimp. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear and will cause the shrimp to steam.
- 3The pan must be screaming hot. This high heat cooks the shrimp quickly and chars the spices without overcooking the shrimp itself.
- 4Be prepared for smoke! The blackening process is inherently smoky. Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated.
- 5Cook in batches. Overcrowding the pan will lower its temperature, preventing a proper sear and resulting in steamed, rubbery shrimp.
- 6Watch the shrimp closely. They cook in just a few minutes. Overcooked shrimp will be tough.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This blackening spice blend is fantastic on other proteins. Try it on chicken tenders, catfish fillets, or firm tofu.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
After cooking the shrimp, reduce the heat, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or broth, then stir in a 1/4 cup of heavy cream for a quick, creamy sauce.
Spice Level AdjustmentSpice Level Adjustment
Easily control the heat by reducing or increasing the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice blend. For a milder version, use just a pinch or omit it entirely.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function, all while being low in calories.
Rich in Antioxidants
The herbs and spices used in the blackening blend, such as paprika, oregano, and thyme, are loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Metabolism-Boosting Spices
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a compound known to slightly boost metabolism and increase fat burning, contributing to weight management efforts.
Supports Brain Health
Shrimp contains important nutrients like astaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to protecting the brain from inflammation and supporting cognitive function.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this Blackened Shrimp contains approximately 210-230 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie main dish. The final count depends on the exact size of the shrimp and the amount of butter absorbed.