blackened shrimp recipe
The Best blackened shrimp recipe
My family loves it because it’s easy to customize. You can serve it with rice, quinoa, or even just a simple salad to keep things light, but it’s also great with a big bowl of pasta or a hearty grain bowl if you’re craving something heartier. And let’s be real, it’s perfect for special occasions too—whether it’s a weekend brunch with friends or a casual family dinner where everyone’s just hanging out. The kids will love the crunchy, spicy coating, and the adults will appreciate how it’s just the right amount of flavor without being too heavy. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser, so no one ever complains about leftovers. You can even make it ahead and reheat it, so it’s a total win for busy days.
Blackened Shrimp with Spicy Garlic Butter
A flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp coated in a smoky-spicy blackening seasoning, served with a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Combine all blackening seasoning ingredients in a bowl and set aside. -
2
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp of butter and let it melt. Toss shrimp in the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coating. -
3
Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. -
4
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). -
5
Return shrimp to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until shrimp are heated through and sauce is glossy.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime before serving.
- Use large, firm shrimp for best results.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough for the shrimp to cook quickly and stay crispy.
Watch Video Of How Blackened Shrimp with Spicy Garlic Butter Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Blackened Shrimp with Spicy Garlic Butter
1. What is the difference between blackened shrimp and traditional shrimp recipes?
Blackened shrimp typically involves coating the shrimp in a spicy, smoky, and often garlicky seasoning blend that’s baked or pan-seared until crispy. Unlike traditional shrimp recipes (like poached or sautéed), blackened shrimp features bold flavors from ingredients like cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sometimes a touch of cayenne or hot sauce for extra heat. The crust gives it a satisfying crunch, while the inside remains tender.
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2. Can I use frozen shrimp for blackened shrimp, or should I use fresh shrimp?
You can use frozen shrimp, but fresh is preferred for best results. Frozen shrimp can be slightly less flexible and may not hold the seasoning as well, but it works fine if you’re short on time. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or use cold water to speed up the process. Pat them very dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy crust.
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3. What’s the best way to season blackened shrimp to avoid a soggy crust?
To prevent a soggy crust, follow these key steps:
– Pat shrimp extremely dry with paper towels (even if they’re fresh).
– Use a high-heat cooking method (grill, oven, or skillet) and cook shrimp quickly (about 2–3 minutes per side for medium-sized shrimp).
– Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed.
– If using a crusting technique (like breading), press it firmly with a fork or spatula to adhere well.
– For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes after searing.
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4. How do I adjust the spice level in the blackened shrimp recipe?
The spice level depends on your preference:
– Mild: Reduce cayenne or hot sauce to ½ tsp per cup of seasoning mix. Add more smoked paprika or garlic powder for depth without heat.
– Medium: Use the standard recipe (1 tbsp cayenne per 2 cups mix).
– Hot: Double the cayenne (1–2 tbsp) or add extra hot sauce (like Tabasco or Sriracha) at the end.
– For extra heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne directly on the shrimp before cooking.
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5. Can I make blackened shrimp ahead of time and reheat it?
Blackened shrimp is best eaten fresh, but you can prep the seasoned shrimp in advance:
– Store seasoned shrimp (without cooking) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– Reheat in a skillet over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side (or until hot through).
– For oven reheating, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway.
– Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
