Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish, this spicy garlic shrimp recipe is the perfect choice. Combining the richness of butter with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, these shrimp are sure to impress. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course, making it ideal for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
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
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
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its flavor.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and toss in the butter mixture to coat evenly.
5. Cook the shrimp for 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, hot sauce, and fresh parsley if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds to release its flavor.
Step 3: Stir in the Sauce
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and toss in the butter mixture to coat them evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Cook the shrimp for 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, hot sauce, and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
Freshness
Using fresh shrimp is recommended for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
To melt butter, add it to a skillet over medium heat. This method ensures the butter melts evenly without burning.
Minced Garlic
Minced garlic is created by finely chopping garlic cloves. This helps release the strong flavor and aroma quickly when heated.
Combining Flavors
Mixing Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and spices creates a flavorful sauce. Stir until all ingredients are well combined for even distribution of taste.
Sautéing Shrimp
Add shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque to ensure they are perfectly done.
Serving Suggestions
Serve shrimp hot, garnished with lemon wedges, hot sauce, and fresh parsley for a vibrant and flavorful dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of shrimp?
Yes, you can use any type of shrimp, but make sure they are deveined for the best texture.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
To reduce spiciness, you can decrease the amount of cayenne pepper or omit Cajun seasoning altogether.
What can I serve with this shrimp dish?
This shrimp dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving.
How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking 4-5 minutes to cook.
Conclusion
The garlic butter Cajun shrimp dish brings together an incredible medley of flavors, making it a delightful and quick meal option. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and spices creates a zesty and savory experience that complements the shrimp perfectly. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Butter Scallops
Replace shrimp with scallops and follow the same cooking instructions for a luxurious seafood dish.
Cajun Chicken Stir-Fry
Substitute shrimp with sliced chicken breast and add bell peppers and onions for a hearty stir-fry.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Use the same shrimp recipe and serve in warm corn tortillas with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Toss the cooked shrimp in the butter sauce with your favorite pasta and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Seafood Boil
Incorporate potatoes, corn, and sausages to the shrimp recipe for a flavorful seafood boil experience.
Garlic Butter Vegetable Medley
Use the same butter mixture to sauté a medley of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a vegetarian option.
Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Marinate shrimp in the garlic butter sauce and thread onto skewers for grilling, adding pieces of bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.
Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
Stir-fry the shrimp with rice, peas, carrots, and a touch of soy sauce to create a delicious Cajun-inspired fried rice.
Garlic Butter Quinoa
Toss cooked quinoa with the garlic butter sauce and add sautéed spinach and cherry tomatoes for a healthy side dish.
