15-Minute Blackened Shrimp Recipe

Introduction

This 15 Minute Blackened Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a spicy seafood dish. With a blend of smoky and aromatic spices, the shrimp are seared to perfection and ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a simple, delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon regular paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 pounds shrimp (at least 31-35 size, peeled and deveined)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other high heat oil)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, optional)
• 1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
• 1 lemon for serving (optional)
• 1 fresh parsley finely chopped for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Mix together smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil in a small bowl until well combined and set aside.
2. Step 2: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry using a paper towel to help the seasoning adhere properly.
3. Step 3: Coat the shrimp evenly with the blackening seasoning mix. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Step 4: Add avocado oil to the hot pan and swirl to coat. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until the shrimp are just opaque and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary.
5. Step 5: During the last minute of cooking, add the softened butter and minced garlic to the pan if using. Stir to coat the shrimp and cook for about 1 more minute, then remove from heat. If cooking in batches, return all shrimp to the pan and toss with butter and garlic.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately on tacos, pasta, wraps, salads, sandwiches, enchiladas, or rice bowls.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked paprika to add a deep smoky flavor or substitute with sweet paprika if unavailable for a milder taste.
• For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of chili flakes.
• To keep shrimp tender, avoid overcooking; they cook very quickly and become rubbery if left in the pan too long.
• Swap avocado oil with grapeseed oil or another oil with a high smoke point.
• Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the spice mix for a subtle sweetness balancing the heat.

Storage

Store any leftover blackened shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave to avoid drying them out. These shrimp are best enjoyed fresh but will still be tasty when reheated carefully.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they sear properly and achieve that delicious blackened crust.

What can I serve with blackened shrimp?

Blackened shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides like rice bowls, pasta, fresh salads, tacos, or wrapped in a sandwich. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon or a creamy sauce can complement the spicy seasoning.

15-Minute Blackened Shrimp Recipe

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4.6 from 150 reviews

This 15 Minute Blackened Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp coated in a bold, smoky blackening seasoning and quickly seared to perfection in a hot cast iron skillet. The seasoning blend combines smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs to create a flavorful crust that’s complemented by optional butter and garlic for extra richness. Perfectly cooked in just minutes, these spicy shrimp make an excellent addition to tacos, salads, wraps, and more, delivering a quick, delicious meal with a punch of Cajun-inspired flavor.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Blackening Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon regular paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds shrimp (at least 31–35 size, peeled and deveined)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other high heat oil)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, optional)
• 1 clove garlic (minced, optional)

To Serve (Optional)

• 1 lemon (for serving)
• 1 fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a good sear. Coat the shrimp evenly with the prepared blackening seasoning mix to ensure every bite is flavorful. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat to get it hot enough for searing.
3. Sear the Shrimp: Add avocado oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around to coat the surface completely. Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the pan, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they become just opaque and develop a flavorful crust.
4. Finish with Butter and Garlic: During the last minute of cooking, add softened butter and minced garlic to the pan if using. Stir carefully to coat all shrimp with the melted butter and garlic mixture, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove shrimp from the heat once done. If you cooked in multiple batches, return all shrimp to the pan and toss them together in the butter and garlic mixture for even flavor.
5. Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately as a flavorful protein addition to tacos, pasta, wraps, salads, sandwiches, enchiladas, or rice bowls.

Notes

• For best results, use a cast iron skillet to achieve a good sear and blackening effect.
• Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to taste depending on your preferred spice level.
• The butter and garlic finishing step is optional but adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Serve immediately to maintain the shrimp’s perfect texture and flavor.
• This recipe works well with various serving options such as tacos, salads, or rice bowls.

Keywords: blackened shrimp, Cajun shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, spicy shrimp, skillet shrimp, 15 minute shrimp, easy dinner, seafood, blackening seasoning