Name: Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 3 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust based on Cajun seasoning); 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

There’s something magical about the combination of bold Cajun spices and rich, buttery garlic sauce coating succulent shrimp. This dish brings the perfect balance of heat, tang, and indulgence, making it a favorite in my kitchen. Whether I’m whipping it up for a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests with a flavorful seafood dish, Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce never disappoints.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, I can serve up a restaurant-quality dish in under 20 minutes. The shrimp soak up all the delicious flavors, resulting in a meal that’s bursting with smoky, spicy, and buttery goodness. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves bold, satisfying flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Packed with Flavor – The Cajun seasoning adds a bold, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the buttery garlic sauce.
Versatile – Serve it over rice, pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Healthy & Protein-Packed – Shrimp is a great source of lean protein while keeping the meal light and nutritious.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, this dish always impresses.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

When making Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce, I always recommend using large or jumbo shrimp. They hold up well to the bold seasoning and stay juicy when cooked. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time, but keeping the tails on can add extra flavor and make for a beautiful presentation.

If you have access to wild-caught shrimp, go for it! They tend to have a sweeter, more robust flavor than farmed varieties. However, if farm-raised is what you have, the seasoning and butter sauce will make them taste incredible regardless.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No problem! Here are some easy substitutions:

Shrimp Alternative – Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a different protein option.
Cajun Seasoning – If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, use a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper.
Butter Substitute – Use ghee for a nuttier flavor or olive oil for a lighter version.
Garlic – Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re out, garlic powder works in a pinch.
Lemon Juice – Adds brightness to the dish, but you can use lime juice or white wine instead.
Spice Level – Adjust the heat by adding more cayenne for extra spice or reducing it for a milder version.

Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in bringing out the bold, rich flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp – The star of the dish! Large or jumbo shrimp work best for a juicy, tender bite.
Cajun Seasoning – A blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors that gives the shrimp its signature kick.
Butter – Adds richness and helps create the velvety garlic sauce.
Garlic – Infuses the butter sauce with an aromatic, deep flavor.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the shrimp for a perfectly crisp exterior.
Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dish and balances the spice.
Parsley – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the final dish.
Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For those who love extra heat!

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear better. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the bold spices.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and stir everything together.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce, ensuring each piece is coated in the rich, flavorful mixture. Let it simmer for another minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy!

How Long to Cook Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Shrimp cook incredibly fast, making this dish perfect for a quick meal. On medium-high heat, they take about 2 minutes per side to turn pink and slightly golden. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery, so keep an eye on them. Once they curl into a “C” shape and are opaque, they’re done. After adding them back into the garlic butter sauce, a quick 1-minute simmer is all that’s needed to soak up the flavors.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Shrimp – Fresh shrimp have the best texture, but if using frozen, thaw them in cold water and pat them dry before cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure even searing and avoid steaming.
Adjust the Spice Level – Add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra heat, or use a mild Cajun blend if you prefer less spice.
Butter Matters – Use high-quality butter for the richest, most flavorful garlic sauce.
Deglaze for Extra Flavor – After cooking the shrimp, you can add a splash of white wine to lift any flavorful bits from the pan before making the sauce.
Serve Immediately – Shrimp taste best when hot and fresh, so serve them right away for the best texture and flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is simple, a few missteps can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly! Overcooking them makes them rubbery and tough. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
Using Too Much Cajun Seasoning – While Cajun seasoning is delicious, some blends can be salty. Taste your seasoning first and adjust accordingly.
Not Drying the Shrimp – If the shrimp are too wet, they won’t sear properly and may release too much moisture into the pan.
Skipping the Lemon Juice – The acidity balances the richness of the butter and enhances the overall flavor.
Burning the Garlic – Garlic cooks fast! Make sure to sauté it for only about 30 seconds on medium heat to avoid a bitter taste.
Crowding the Pan – Shrimp need space to develop a nice sear. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Not Tasting Before Serving – Give the sauce a quick taste before adding the shrimp back in to ensure the flavors are well balanced.

What to Serve With Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce?

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite options:

1. Steamed White or Jasmine Rice

A simple, fluffy bed of rice soaks up all that buttery, garlicky sauce perfectly.

2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The rich, buttery shrimp pairs beautifully with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.

3. Garlic Butter Pasta

Toss some spaghetti or fettuccine in extra garlic butter for a comforting meal.

4. Crusty French Bread

A warm, crispy baguette is perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce.

5. Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a fresh, slightly charred contrast to the dish.

6. Coleslaw

A crunchy, tangy coleslaw helps balance out the richness of the shrimp and butter sauce.

7. Corn on the Cob

Sweet and buttery corn makes a delicious side, especially if grilled.

8. Caesar Salad

A crisp, garlicky Caesar salad provides a refreshing balance to the bold flavors of the shrimp.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, you can store Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce properly to enjoy later.

Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While shrimp can be frozen, the texture may change slightly. If needed, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To avoid overcooking, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter or a splash of water. Heat just until warmed through, about 2–3 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 220mg
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g

These values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Adjust according to your dietary needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Use a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount of seasoning. You can also omit the red pepper flakes if you want a milder dish.

2. What’s the best way to thaw frozen shrimp?

Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15–20 minutes until fully thawed. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

3. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but it’s not ideal. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. If using them, add them at the very end and just warm them through.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

5. Can I make this in the oven instead of on the stove?

Yes! Toss the shrimp in the seasoning and a bit of melted butter, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until pink and cooked through.

6. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an extra minute or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.

7. Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Try this recipe with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

8. What’s the best way to serve this for a crowd?

Double or triple the recipe and serve it buffet-style with rice, pasta, or bread. It’s a great dish for entertaining!

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce is an easy, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress. Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with family and friends—they’ll love it just as much as you do!