Description
This Spicy Cajun Shrimp Sauce is and easy weeknight dinner idea that is packed with garlic, rich cream, and the perfect amount of heat.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp (fresh or thawed frozen; tail-on or off is fine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided (use store-bought or homemade; adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chicken stock or white wine
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish (flat-leaf or curly works)
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry and add to a bowl. Pour in the olive oil and season with the salt and two teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the shrimp on both sides. You are only looking to get a little color on the shrimp, not trying to fully-cook. You may have to do this in batches. As the shrimp sear, reserve them in a bowl.
- In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and start melting the butter.
- Add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing it to deepen in color.
- Pour in the chicken stock or white wine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Lower heat and stir in the heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Whisk in the lemon juice.
- Return shrimp to the sauce, along with the fresh parsley. Cook for another minute or two, to finish cooking the shrimp.
- Spoon over steamed rice.
- Garnished with more parsley, if desired.
- ENJOY!
Notes
- If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw properly.
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp with either the tail on, or off.
- Quickly sear the shrimp just to add a touch of color. You are NOT trying to fully cook the shrimp. This will only take a few seconds each side.
- Sear the shrimp in batches to avoid “cooking,” instead of searing.
- Adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to make the sauce extra spicy.
- Allow the sauce to slightly thicken. Use a spatula to scrape the sides as the sauce is simmering.
- Try not to overcook the shrimp once the shrimp are placed back into the sauce.
- Spoon this Cajun shrimp sauce over rice, serve with pasta or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: Seafood