Firey Cajun Shrimp
Fiery Cajun shrimp coated in a spicy, buttery sauce, perfect for sharing with crusty French bread and ideal for seafood lovers seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash shrimp thoroughly.
- Combine melted margarine, butter, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, black pepper, hot sauce, salt, and garlic salt to make the sauce.
- Place unpeeled shrimp in a large Pyrex dish.
- Pour the sauce over the shrimp.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Stir the shrimp twice during baking.
- Butter French bread and brown it.
- Serve the shrimp with the buttered French bread; the sauce can be used as a dip.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or adjusting the hot sauce to your preference. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen works too—just thaw them properly before cooking. For a variation, try adding diced bell peppers or onions to the dish for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with buttered French bread, which is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. For a complete seafood dinner, consider making a side of Shrimp Louisiana Casserole or a light Tuna Salad Filling to complement the shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a baking dish and cover with foil, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. The sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Firey Cajun Shrimp contains roughly 231 calories, with 5g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2109mg per serving (92% 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 use peeled shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use peeled shrimp if you prefer. However, leaving the shells on during baking enhances the flavor and keeps the shrimp moist. If using peeled shrimp, reduce the baking time slightly, checking for doneness at around 15 minutes.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing soy sauce, vinegar, and a little sugar. This will provide a similar depth of flavor. Alternatively, a combination of balsamic vinegar and a dash of hot sauce can also work in a pinch.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, just bake them together. The shrimp can also be easily reheated without losing much flavor, making it a convenient option for busy days.
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).