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15 Minute Blackened Shrimp Recipe

4.9 from 90 reviews

A quick and flavorful 15-minute blackened shrimp recipe featuring a bold blend of spices seared to perfection in a cast iron skillet. Ideal for tacos, salads, pasta, or rice bowls, these shrimp are seasoned with a smoky, spicy mix and finished with garlic butter for an irresistible dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Blackening Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon regular paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon dried basil

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds shrimp (at least 3135 size, peeled and deveined)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other high heat oil)

Optional Finishing Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 lemon for serving
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped) for serving

Instructions

  1. Mix: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil. Stir well until thoroughly mixed and set aside.
  2. Prep: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure optimal searing. Coat each shrimp evenly with the prepared blackening seasoning. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat to get it hot for searing.
  3. Sear: Add avocado oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the surface evenly. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and develop a slight crust. Work in batches if necessary to maintain heat and searing quality.
  4. Finish: During the last minute of cooking, add the softened butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir the shrimp gently to coat them in the garlic butter and cook for an additional minute. Remove shrimp from heat promptly. If you cooked multiple batches, return all shrimp to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter mixture to combine flavors evenly.
  5. Serve: Transfer the blackened shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately, perfect for tacos, pasta, wraps, salads, sandwiches, enchiladas, or rice bowls for a quick and delicious meal.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before seasoning to get a good sear and avoid steaming.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your preferred spice level.
  • Use a cast iron skillet for best heat retention and sear results.
  • Butter and garlic are optional but add a rich, aromatic finish to the shrimp.
  • Blackened shrimp are versatile and pair well with many dishes like tacos or rice bowls.

Keywords: Blackened Shrimp, Quick Shrimp Recipe, Cajun Shrimp, Spicy Shrimp, Seafood Dinner, Cast Iron Skillet Shrimp