Blackened Shrimp – These easy juicy blackened shrimp is the best weeknight appetizer made in less than 15 minutes served on pasta, rice or with tacos.
What is Blackened Shrimp?
It is a cooking technique where shrimp are coated in a fiery spice mix and seared super-hot in a cast-iron skillet.
It’s not about burning; it’s about creating a deep, flavorful crust with just a hint of char to get the Shrimp, that’s juicy on the inside and explosively flavorful on the outside.
Blackening Seasoning
You can find pre-made blackening spice blends, but making your own is super easy and lets you adjust the heat. Here’s my go-to mix:
- Paprika (smoked and regular): The backbone of the flavor.
- Onion and garlic powder: Essential aromatics.
- Dried herbs (oregano, thyme, basil): Layers of complexity.
- Salt and black pepper: Don’t skimp!
- Cayenne pepper: This is where you control the heat – start with less and add more to taste.
Easy Blackened Shrimp – Tips
Pat those shrimp dry! Excess moisture will prevent the crust from forming.
Get that skillet screaming hot. This is crucial for the perfect sear.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed for even browning.
Finish with butter. A final toss with melted butter adds richness just before serving.
Quick Blackened Shrimp – Serving Suggestions
- Tacos: With avocado, salsa, and lime wedges.
- Over grits: Southern comfort at its best.
- Pasta: Toss with creamy sauce and fresh veggies.
- Salad: Blackened shrimp salad is light and refreshing.
- Straight up: As a finger-licking appetizer!
Recipe Variations
Blackened Salmon or Chicken: The same technique works beautifully on other proteins.
Spice it up: Play with different peppers or add brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Citrus Twist: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice brightens the flavors.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning.
What size shrimp is best?
Medium to large work well. Too small, and they might overcook.
How do I know the pan is hot enough?
It should be almost smoking. A water droplet should sizzle and evaporate instantly.
Blackened Shrimp
These easy juicy blackened shrimp is the best weeknight appetizer made in less than 15 minutes served on pasta, rice or with tacos.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
- 2 Tbsp blackening seasoning
- 3 Tbsp butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil, divided
- freshly minced parsley or coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, pat dry the shrimps and toss with melted butter.
- Add blackening seasoning and toss to combine until well coated.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet on medium high high until smoky hot. Add 1 oil and swirl to coat.
- Single layer half of the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another minute. Remove and transfer to a plate.
- Add the remaining shrimp and oil, cook about 2-3 seconds, flip and cook for another minute.
- Add all the cooked shrimp to the skillet or until warmed through.
- Serve immediately, minced coriander leaves.
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Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 202Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 206mgSodium 2422mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 21g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
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