Introduction
Discover a delightful recipe that highlights the succulent flavors of shrimp, combined with a zesty and spicy buttery sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The medley of garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (e.g., McCormick or Slap Ya Mama)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 pounds large shrimp, deveined
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This easy-to-make shrimp dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Butter
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Ensure that the butter is fully melted before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 30 seconds. Stir continuously to prevent the garlic from burning and to allow it to release its flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
Incorporate the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper into the skillet. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Introduce the deveined shrimp into the skillet. Toss the shrimp in the butter mixture, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Cook the shrimp for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat once fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Serve the shrimp immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges, hot sauce, and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Substitution Options
You can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil for a lighter version. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat tolerance.
Serving Suggestions
This shrimp dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storage Recommendations
Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent overcooking.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to become fully liquid without browning.
Infusing Garlic Flavor
Add minced garlic to the melted butter and cook briefly (about 30 seconds) to release its flavor into the oil.
Mixing Sauces and Seasonings
Combine Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in the skillet, stirring until all ingredients are well integrated.
Cooking Shrimp
Introduce the deveined shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the buttery, seasoned mixture. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes.
Serving Shrimp
Serve the freshly cooked shrimp immediately with optional sides like lemon wedges, hot sauce, and chopped parsley.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can create your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and some cayenne pepper.
How can I adjust the spice level?
You can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper for a milder dish or increase it for more heat, based on your preference.
What can I serve with the shrimp?
These shrimp pair well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, along with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving for maximum freshness.
Conclusion
The garlic butter Cajun shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture. The combination of garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning creates a rich and mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also makes for a fantastic meal that can impress family and friends alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with garlic butter Cajun shrimp for a hearty and flavorful meal. Toss with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Cajun Shrimp Tacos
Use the garlic butter Cajun shrimp as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Top with cabbage slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a delicious twist.
Shrimp and Grits
Serve the garlic butter Cajun shrimp over creamy grits for a Southern-inspired comfort food dish. Add some sautéed greens on the side for a complete meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the garlic butter Cajun shrimp with rice, black beans, and cheese, then stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Cajun Shrimp Salad
Toss the cooked shrimp with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing and low-carb meal option.
