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Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 83 reviews

This Crispy Cajun Shrimp recipe features perfectly seared shrimp coated in a flavorful Cajun seasoning and lightly dredged in flour for a crispy texture. Paired with a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors—making it an ideal appetizer or main course for seafood lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or other neutral oil

Creamy Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior when cooked.
  2. Season Shrimp: Toss the shrimp evenly in the Cajun seasoning until all pieces are fully coated for maximum flavor.
  3. Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat the seasoned shrimp in all-purpose flour and shake off any excess to avoid a heavy batter.
  4. Heat Oil: Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, preparing for searing the shrimp.
  5. Cook Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Sear each side for 2–3 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  6. Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice until smooth to create the creamy dipping sauce.
  7. Assemble Dish: Arrange the cooked shrimp on a serving plate and drizzle or dollop the creamy sauce over them.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the shrimp for a pop of color and fresh herbal note. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Adjust the hot sauce amount in the creamy sauce to control the spiciness according to taste preferences.
  • Using fresh parsley provides a bright, fresh flavor, but chives offer a mild oniony contrast—choose based on your preference.
  • If preferred, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • Ensure the shrimp are dry before seasoning and dredging to achieve the crispiest texture.
  • This dish is best served immediately to maintain shrimp crispness and sauce freshness.

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, crispy shrimp, spicy shrimp recipe, creamy shrimp sauce, quick seafood appetizer

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/crispy-cajun-shrimp-with-creamy-sauce-recipe-2/