Cajun Shrimp Bake Recipe

A Cajun Shrimp Bake is a delicious, flavor-packed dish that brings together succulent shrimp, hearty vegetables, and bold Cajun seasoning. This easy sheet pan meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing gathering, or even meal prep. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an effortless way to enjoy the vibrant taste of Louisiana.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – A simple sheet pan meal that takes under an hour from start to finish.
• Bold flavors – Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick that enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
• Minimal cleanup – Everything bakes on one pan for easy cleanup.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels and swap in your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup corn kernels (or 2 ears of corn, cut into pieces)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Season the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes, corn, bell pepper, and red onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.

3. Bake the Vegetables

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Season the Shrimp

While the vegetables are baking, toss the shrimp in a bowl with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and melted butter.

5. Add the Shrimp to the Pan

Once the potatoes are tender, remove the pan from the oven. Add the seasoned shrimp and lemon slices to the sheet pan, mixing them with the vegetables.

6. Finish Baking

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Variations

• Extra spice – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Different proteins – Swap shrimp for chicken, sausage, or a mix of seafood.
• Vegetable swaps – Use zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.
• Cheesy twist – Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results. You can also use the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It has a moderate spice level, but you can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the Cajun seasoning.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best type of shrimp to use?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best because they stay juicy during baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and marinate the shrimp in the seasoning ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge until ready to bake.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

It can be! Swap the potatoes and corn for low-carb veggies like cauliflower and bell peppers.

Can I cook this on the grill?

Yes, you can use a grill basket or foil packets and cook over medium-high heat until the shrimp are done.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with garlic bread, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a second sheet pan to avoid overcrowding.

How do I prevent overcooked shrimp?

Keep an eye on them in the oven—shrimp cook quickly and only need about 8-10 minutes.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, but check the salt content as some blends are saltier than others. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Conclusion

This Cajun Shrimp Bake is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With just one pan and bold seasonings, it delivers maximum taste with minimal effort. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a taste of the South in every bite!

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