If you’re looking for an easy seafood dinner that delivers plenty of flavor without much work, this garlic butter Cajun shrimp is a great choice. The shrimp turn juicy and golden while buttery garlic, bold Cajun spices, and fresh lemon bring everything together in just 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Cajun spice. Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes bring real heat and depth.
- That garlic butter finish. Every shrimp gets coated in rich, fragrant butter.
- Ready in 20 minutes. A fast, flavorful dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Bright lemon finish. Keeps the richness balanced and fresh.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Garlic Butter Cajun Shrimp
1. Season the shrimp. Pat the shrimp dry, then toss with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
2. Heat the skillet. Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and sizzling.
3. Sear the shrimp. Arrange the shrimp in an even layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden, pink, and cooked through.
4. Add the garlic butter. Reduce the heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, gently tossing the Cajun shrimp until coated in the fragrant garlic butter.
5. Finish with lemon. Add the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Toss until every shrimp is coated in the Cajun garlic butter sauce.
6. Serve. Serve the garlic butter Cajun shrimp immediately with fresh lemon wedges and spoon the buttery pan sauce over the top.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Cajun Shrimp
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Arranging the shrimp in a single layer helps them sear instead of steam.
- Watch the garlic closely. It can burn quickly in hot butter, so keep an eye on it during that step.
- Adjust the heat to taste. Use less red pepper flakes for a milder dish, or add extra for more kick.
- Serve immediately. These shrimp are best enjoyed hot, right out of the skillet while the butter is still glossy.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Cajun Shrimp
These shrimp are versatile enough to serve over rice or pasta for a full dinner, or alongside crusty bread as a shareable appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat very dry before cooking so they sear properly instead of releasing excess water.
Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and use a milder Cajun seasoning if you prefer less heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, since the shrimp can turn rubbery when reheated.
Garlic Butter Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry, then toss with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium high heat until the butter is melted and sizzling.
- Arrange the shrimp in an even layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden, pink, and cooked through.
- Reduce the heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, gently tossing the Cajun shrimp until coated in the fragrant garlic butter.
- Add the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Toss until every shrimp is coated in the Cajun garlic butter sauce.
- Serve the garlic butter Cajun shrimp immediately with fresh lemon wedges and spoon the buttery pan sauce over the top.