Sheet pan meals have taken the cooking world by storm—and for good reason. They’re easy, require minimal cleanup, and allow you to pack an incredible amount of flavor into every bite. Today, we’re spotlighting one of our favorite one-pan wonders: Sheet Pan Cajun Butter Shrimp. It's a crowd-pleaser that combines succulent shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and a luscious, buttery sauce.
This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s an absolute lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you need to impress guests without breaking a sweat. Let's get into the recipe and tips that are sure to boost your culinary game.
Why You’ll Love Cajun Butter Shrimp
This dish has it all:
- Quick and Easy – A prep time of just 10 minutes and only one pan!
- Flavor Explosion – The Cajun seasoning adds a bold, spicy kick balanced by the buttery richness.
- Versatile – Perfect as a standalone dish, over rice, or served with crusty bread for dipping in that delightful butter sauce.
- Minimal Cleanup – One pan = less stress post-dinner.
Sound good? Grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is a simple recipe, with most ingredients being pantry staples. Here's what you’ll need to whip up the magic.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
How to Make Sheet Pan Cajun Butter Shrimp
From start to finish, this recipe will have you serving up a restaurant-worthy dish in under 30 minutes.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Arrange the bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on the sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and toss everything to coat evenly. Spread the vegetables into a single layer so they roast evenly.
Step 3: Make the Cajun Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. This blend of spices and butter is the heart of this recipe, delivering a punch of bold flavors.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Nestle the shrimp in between the vegetables on the sheet pan, ensuring each piece touches the pan for even cooking. Pour the Cajun butter mixture generously over the shrimp and vegetables, coating everything evenly.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Toss halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
Step 6: Broil (Optional but Recommended)
For that extra golden, slightly charred flavor, broil on high for 2-3 minutes after roasting. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Pair it with fluffy rice, warm crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Sheet Pan Cajun Shrimp Pro Tips
To make this recipe even better, here are some pro tips:
- Adjust the Spice Level: Not a fan of intense heat? Use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount. Want more kick? Add cayenne pepper or extra chili flakes.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp works perfectly fine here. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- Custom Vegetables: While bell peppers and cherry tomatoes are classics, feel free to switch it up with zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms based on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on the oven and pull them out as soon as they turn pink.
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning: For total control over flavor and heat, make your own Cajun spice blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and salt.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion
The versatility of this dish makes it ideal for a variety of occasions:
- Weeknight Dinners – It’s fast, flavorful, and fuss-free.
- Casual Entertaining – Impress friends with a bold, colorful dish that feels gourmet without the effort.
- Meal Prep – Make a double batch and enjoy leftovers for days.
Your Next Step to a Perfect Meal
This Sheet Pan Cajun Butter Shrimp dish is proof that you don’t need complicated recipes to create a delicious, show-stopping meal. Loaded with bold flavors, satisfying textures, and vibrant colors, it hits all the right notes for foodies and home cooks alike.
Looking for more tips and recipes to elevate your cooking game? Sign up for our newsletter and never miss a new recipe!
إرسال تعليق