Description
This Easy Blackened Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, spicy shrimp cooked quickly on the stovetop. Featuring a bold Cajun-inspired spice blend of smoked paprika, garlic, onion, and cayenne pepper, these succulent shrimp are slightly charred for a smoky, flavorful finish. Ready in under 20 minutes, they make a fantastic main course served with fresh lemon wedges and pair well with tacos, salads, or rice bowls.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Oil
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spice Mix
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the shrimp will sear properly and the spices will adhere well.
- Coat with Oil: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil until they are evenly coated, helping the spices stick and promoting even cooking.
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the blackening seasoning.
- Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the spice mixture over the oiled shrimp. Toss thoroughly until all shrimp are well coated with the seasoning blend.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot before adding the shrimp for a good sear.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until shrimp turn opaque and develop a slightly charred crust.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to reduce or increase heat according to your preference.
- These shrimp are versatile and work well in tacos, salads, grain bowls, or paired with rice for a complete meal.
