Blackened Shrimp Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
158 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Blackened Shrimp Recipe
Description
This Blackened Shrimp Recipe uses a blend of smoked paprika, thyme, garlic, cayenne, and other spices to create the seasoning that coats the shrimp. After tossing shrimp in melted butter and seasoning to coat well, they are cooked in a very hot cast iron skillet with vegetable oil for about two and a half minutes per side, creating a seared and charred crust without overcooking the shrimp.
The cooking technique is key to achieving the blackened effect, which adds depth of flavor and a bit of smokiness. The shrimp remain moist inside due to the quick cooking and butter coating.
The shrimp can be served immediately with lemon wedges and fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for brightness. They pair well with rice, salads, or as a protein topping for various dishes. The included homemade seasoning can be stored for months and tailored to spice preference.
The recipe highlights the importance of drying shrimp before seasoning to get an even crust and using a hot pan to ensure blackening without steaming the shrimp.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Shrimp 26-30 per pound) peeled and deveined, tails removed, large raw
- 2 - 3 Tbsp blackening seasoning see recipe below in Chef's notes (or use store-bought)
- 3 Tbsp butter slightly cooled, melted
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil divided, or avocado oil
- lemon for garnish, wedges
- parsley for garnish, minced fresh, or cilantro
Instructions
Prepare
- Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels, then add to a large mixing bowl and toss with the melted butter.
Season
- Make seasoning if using homemade, or get out the store-bought seasoning mix.
- Sprinkle shrimp with blackening seasoning and toss to combine, so that each shrimp is coated very well.
Cook
- Heat a large cast iron skillet (or other large heavy bottomed skillet) over MED HIGH heat for several minutes, or until you see small wisps of smoke. Add 1 Tbsp of oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Add half of the shrimp, in a single layer. Cook about 90 seconds, then flip each shrimp over, cooking for another minute on the second side.
- Remove shrimp to a plate. Add remaining vegetable oil and shrimp, then cook about 90 seconds, then flip each shrimp over, cooking for another minute on the second side.
Serve
- Add all shrimp back to the skillet, then remove from the heat. Serve hot, with some lemon wedges and sprinkled with a bit of minced fresh parsley or cilantro (if desired).
Notes
- Pat shrimp thoroughly dry to ensure the seasoning adheres and the crust forms well.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount in the seasoning to control spiciness according to taste.
- Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley or cilantro to balance smoky flavors.
- The seasoning blend can be stored in an airtight container up to 6 months in a cool, dry place.
- This dish pairs nicely with cilantro lime rice or a creamy remoulade sauce.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 158 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 158kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 21g | 42% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 206mg | 69% |
| Sodium | 1789mg | 75% |
| Potassium | 173mg | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 447IU | 9% |
| Calcium | 83mg | 8% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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