This Cajun Shrimp recipe offers a flavorful and creamy dish that's perfect for serving over rice or pasta. The combination of Cajun seasoning, fresh vegetables, and a rich sauce creates a delightful meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Full Recipe:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
For the Sauce:
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (reserve juice)
1 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar Jack, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella)
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Lime wedges, for garnish
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned shrimp and sliced red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove the shrimp and bell pepper from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the reserved tomato juice and use a silicone spatula to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Gradually add the chicken broth, heavy cream, honey, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken and comes to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked shrimp and bell pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the sauce and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in fresh lime juice for added brightness.
Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro.
Serve the Cajun Shrimp over rice, buttered noodles, black beans, or a fresh salad.
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 7g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 800mg