Baked Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients :
12 Shrimp Peeled, Deveined, Cooked
1 Canola Oil
1 Smoked Paprika
1 Onion Powder
1 Garlic Powder
1 ½ Salt
½ Cayenne Pepper
½ Thyme Leaves
¼ Ground Oregano
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°. Place foil onto cookie sheet. Lightly oil the foil with cooking spray.
Place shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add oil to the bowl. Cover top of the bowl and gently shake until all of the shrimp is covered with the oil.
In a small bowl with a lid, mix all of the herbs and spices. Add the mixture to the shrimp bowl.
Cover the bowl and gently shake until all of the shrimp are covered with the seasonings.
In a single layer, place the shrimp onto the cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Serve warm with a slice of lemon wedge.
Enjoy !!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw shrimp for this recipe.
Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure the shrimp are fully cooked.
Raw shrimp typically take a bit longer to cook than cooked shrimp.
What size of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
The shrimp size can vary based on your preference.
You can use medium-sized shrimp (around 31-35 count per pound) for a balance of flavor and texture.
Larger shrimp will work as well but may require slightly longer cooking times.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried spices for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried spices for a slightly different flavor profile.
Consider using fresh minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and fresh oregano leaves.
Adjust the quantities to your taste.
Is there a recommended side dish or dipping sauce to serve with the Baked Cajun Shrimp?
You can serve the Baked Cajun Shrimp with a variety of sides or dipping sauces.
Common options include a simple garlic butter sauce, cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a creamy Cajun dipping sauce.
You can also pair it with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time and bake them later?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned shrimp ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours until you’re ready to bake.
Just ensure they are covered to prevent them from drying out.
When ready to bake, place them on the foil-lined cookie sheet and bake as directed in the recipe.
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of precooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.
Precooked shrimp are already cooked, so they only need to be heated through.
If using fresh shrimp, bake until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
What can I use as a substitute for canola oil?
If you don’t have canola oil, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or even olive oil.
Choose an oil with a neutral flavor to avoid overpowering the Cajun seasoning.
Is it necessary to use smoked paprika, or can I use regular paprika?
You can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika.
Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor, but regular paprika will still provide a nice color and flavor to the dish.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe to make it milder or spicier?
Absolutely! You can customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper.
Use less cayenne for a milder flavor or more for extra heat.
Taste and adjust according to your preference.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Baked Cajun Shrimp?
Baked Cajun Shrimp pairs nicely with a variety of side dishes.
Consider serving it with steamed rice, garlic buttered pasta, a simple salad, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.
The choice of side dishes can complement the Cajun flavors of the shrimp.