15 Minute Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Introduction
Blackened shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that packs a spicy punch with minimal effort. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or adding bold flavor to your favorite meals like tacos and salads.
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 pounds shrimp (31-35 size, peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other high heat oil)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, optional)
- 1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
- 1 lemon for serving (optional)
- 1 fresh parsley, finely chopped for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix together smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
- Step 2: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Coat the shrimp evenly with the blackened seasoning mixture.
- Step 3: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Step 4: Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until just opaque and cooked through.
- Step 5: If using, add butter and minced garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking. Stir to coat the shrimp and cook for about 1 minute more. Remove from heat.
- Step 6: If more than one batch, return all shrimp to the pan and toss with the butter and garlic mixture.
- Step 7: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. Enjoy immediately on tacos, pasta, wraps, salads, sandwiches, enchiladas, or rice bowls.
Tips & Variations
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best blackening effect and even cooking.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or swap it for smoked paprika only.
- Try substituting shrimp with scallops or firm white fish for a different twist.
- For a richer finish, add a splash of cream or coconut milk to the pan after cooking.
- Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for quick shrimp tacos.
Storage
Store leftover blackened shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking, or enjoy cold as a protein topping on salads.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to achieve a good sear.
What can I substitute for avocado oil?
Any high smoke point oil such as canola, grapeseed, or vegetable oil will work well for cooking the shrimp.
Print15 Minute Blackened Shrimp Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
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 31–35 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
