Simplicity meets zest and flavor in these Spicy Cajun Shrimp where plump shrimp are bathed in the most explosive sauce made with garlic, butter, lemon juice, ketchup, hot sauce, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Your tastebuds will absolutely love them and it all comes together in 20 minutes!
Ingredients In Spicy Cajun Shrimp
- Shrimp
- Garlic
- Cajun seasoning
- Parsley flakes
- Butter
- Lemon juice
- Chicken broth
- Ketchup
- Hot sauce
- Parsley
- Salt and pepper
How To Make Spicy Cajun Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm
- Pour the chicken broth, ketchup, hot sauce, and chopped fresh parsley into the same skillet. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Add the shrimp back to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
What Can I Substitute For Cajun Seasoning?
You can make your own by using equal parts of garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to your liking. Add more cayenne for a spicier seasoning, or less for a milder one.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp For This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw them out completely before you start cooking. To thaw shrimp, place them in a colander and run cold water over them until they thaw out.
What If I Don’t Have A Skillet?
You can use any frying pan that can hold one pound of shrimp without them being overcrowded.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to two days.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead Of Time?
You can peel and devein the shrimp, and prepare the sauce ahead of time, but cook the shrimp just before serving.

Easy 20-Minute Spicy Cajun Shrimp
Equipment
- Knife and cutting board
- Large skillet
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp parsley flakes
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped
Instructions
- Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm
- Pour the chicken broth, ketchup, hot sauce, and chopped fresh parsley into the same skillet. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Add the shrimp back to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions about Spicy Cajun Shrimp
1. What Sides Go Well With Cajun Shrimp?
You can serve these shrimp with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A side of green salad is great if you don’t want to eat a lot of carbs.
2. Can I Make This Less Spicy?
Absolutely! Use less hot sauce and a milder Cajun seasoning for a less spicy dish.
3. What’s The Best Way To Peel And Devein Shrimp?
To devein, cut a slit along the back of the shrimp with a small, sharp knife and pull out the vein with the tip of the knife. Use your fingers to peel away the shell. You can either leave the tail intact or remove it.
4. Is There A Gluten-Free Option For This Recipe?
The good news is, that this recipe is naturally gluten-free. But always check the ingredients to verify they don’t contain gluten.