This Cajun Shrimp recipe is a game-changer for your dinner rotation. The shrimp are seasoned with Cajun spices and sautéed until perfectly cooked. They're then combined with a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and a touch of heat from hot sauce. The addition of cheese and lime juice enhances the flavor profile, making it a dish you'll want to savor.
Full Recipe:
1 lb (450g) uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups chicken broth
¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), juice reserved
¾ cup shredded cheddar jack cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
2 teaspoons lime juice
Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and peppers from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, honey, and hot sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their reserved juice and shredded cheese. Continue to cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the lime juice and stir to combine.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp and bell peppers to the skillet. Toss to coat them in the sauce. Serve immediately over rice, buttered noodles, or alongside a fresh salad.
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 900mg
Cholesterol: 150mg