Introduction: The Ultimate One-Pan Meal
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal, this Cajun Shrimp Bake is just what you need. Packed with bold spices, succulent shrimp, and roasted vegetables, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
With its smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning and the perfect balance of butter and garlic, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and protein variations.
In this detailed recipe, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the perfect Cajun Shrimp Bake, including ingredient selection, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, keto and low-carb adaptations, and frequently asked questions.
Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp Bake
For the Bake:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 ear of corn, cut into small rounds
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Place the baby potatoes on the baking sheet and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Roast the Potatoes
- Roast the potatoes for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Shrimp
- Add the corn, bell pepper, and zucchini to the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and Cajun seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, and smoked paprika.
- Arrange the shrimp on the baking sheet and top with lemon slices.
Step 4: Bake Until Done
- Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can work if properly thawed.
- Customize your veggies with asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Make it extra spicy by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Variations
Keto Version
- Replace potatoes with cauliflower or broccoli.
- Use grass-fed butter for an even richer flavor.
- Serve with avocado slices for added healthy fats.
Low-Carb Version
- Swap out corn and potatoes for zucchini and bell peppers.
- Reduce the amount of lemon to lower the natural sugars.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before seasoning.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the shrimp and chop the veggies in advance to save time.
4. What can I serve with Cajun Shrimp Bake?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Bake the shrimp for just 10-12 minutes and check for a pink, opaque appearance.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Easy Seafood Dish
This Cajun Shrimp Bake is a fast, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for any occasion. With bold spices, tender shrimp, and roasted veggies, it’s a dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.
Try this delicious and easy Cajun Shrimp Bake recipe today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Enjoy!
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