Fiery Cajun Shrimp
Fiery Cajun Shrimp features bold spices, zesty lemon, and rich butter, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a flavorful, satisfying meal with a spicy kick. Ideal for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except shrimp and sliced lemons, in a Dutch oven or large saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently; reduce to simmer after 1 minute.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Pour a small amount of sauce in the bottom of a casserole dish to cover the bottom.
- Make layers of shrimp alternating with lemon slices in the casserole.
- Pour the sauce over all ingredients.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp.
- Stir halfway through cooking to ensure all shrimp are cooked evenly.
- Serve hot with fresh French bread for sopping up the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder version, reduce the black pepper and Tabasco sauce to taste. You can substitute fresh shrimp with frozen shrimp, but ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can boost the heat without overwhelming the flavor. If you want to add a bit of color and sweetness, consider including some diced bell peppers in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fiery Cajun Shrimp hot, accompanied by fresh French bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of coleslaw or a light green salad can balance the richness of the dish. This recipe pairs beautifully with Causa Limena (Lima Potato Salad) for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fiery Cajun Shrimp contains roughly 201 calories, with 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1269mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce a day in advance. Just layer them in the casserole dish and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even baking.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Fresh shrimp in shells are ideal for this recipe, as they retain moisture and flavor during cooking. If fresh shrimp are unavailable, high-quality frozen shrimp will work, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before use.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Absolutely! You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of black pepper and Tabasco sauce. Start with less and gradually add more to suit your taste. Consider serving with a cooling side dish like coleslaw to balance the spiciness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).