Cajun Butter Shrimp

Juicy, golden-seared shrimp tossed in a rich, spicy Cajun butter sauce — that’s what I’m cooking with this Cajun Butter Shrimp recipe. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and brings big, bold Southern flavors straight to the table. Whether I serve it as an appetizer or a main over rice or pasta, it always disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy this recipe is — from prep to plate in under 30 minutes. The shrimp are succulent and well-seasoned, and that Cajun butter sauce? It’s spicy, garlicky, buttery, and has just a hint of sweetness from the honey. I can pair it with rice, pasta, or some toasted bread to soak up every last drop. Plus, it’s a one-skillet recipe, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Cajun butter sauce:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the shrimp:
I start by tossing the shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the shrimp are evenly coated, I heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn golden and opaque. I remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Make the Cajun butter sauce:
Using the same skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it smells amazing. I stir in the honey (if I’m using it), smoked paprika, cayenne, and lemon juice. I let that simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and serve:
I return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the butter sauce until they’re fully coated. A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top finishes the dish, and then I serve it hot — usually with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 20 to 25 minutes total — with just 10 minutes of prep and 10 to 15 minutes of cook time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests.

Variations

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp: I sometimes add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the butter sauce for a richer, creamier version.

• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes go great in the skillet alongside the shrimp.

• Make it a Pasta Dish: Toss the whole thing with cooked linguine or penne for a hearty pasta dinner.

• Mild Version: I skip the cayenne or reduce the Cajun seasoning for a kid-friendly, less spicy dish.

• Cajun Shrimp Tacos: I use the shrimp as a filling for tacos, adding avocado and a drizzle of sour cream or lime crema.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I use a skillet over low heat to warm everything through without overcooking the shrimp. If I’m in a rush, the microwave works too — just 30–60 seconds should do it.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use?

I like using large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience. Tails on or off is up to me, depending on how I’m serving them.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This helps them sear better and avoids excess moisture in the pan.

Is Cajun seasoning really spicy?

It can be, but not always. I check the label — some are milder, and some have more kick. I can adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.

What can I serve with Cajun butter shrimp?

Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or toasted bread are my go-to sides. Even a simple salad pairs well to balance the richness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I wouldn’t recommend cooking the shrimp too far in advance because they can become rubbery when reheated. But I often prep the ingredients ahead — like seasoning the shrimp or making the sauce base — to save time.

Conclusion

This Cajun Butter Shrimp recipe brings restaurant-level flavor right to my home kitchen. It’s spicy, buttery, and packed with flavor, yet quick enough for a busy weeknight. Whether I’m cooking for family or entertaining friends, it never fails to impress. Once I try it, it’s going on regular rotation — guaranteed.