Description
This Blackened Shrimp recipe features succulent extra-large shrimp coated in a bold, smoky spice blend and seared to perfection in a hot cast iron skillet. Ready in just 18 minutes, these spicy, flavorful shrimp are perfect for a quick dinner or impressive appetizer, garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Spice Mix
- 18 oz. extra large shrimp (about 24), peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste (this is spicy)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
Cooking and Garnish
- 1 1/2 Tbsp light olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 Tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp on a cutting board or large plate. If the shrimp are very wet, dab up some of the excess moisture using paper towels to ensure better spice adherence and searing.
- Make the Spice Mix: In a mixing bowl, whisk together paprika, granulated sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, and salt to taste. This blend will provide the signature blackened flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot, essential for creating the blackened crust.
- Spice the Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp close together without overlapping. Sprinkle half of the spice mixture evenly over one side of the shrimp. Then, turn the shrimp and sprinkle the remaining half of the spice mix on the opposite side.
- Add Oil to Skillet: Pour the light olive oil into the hot skillet. Using hot pads, carefully tilt the pan to coat the surface evenly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until lightly charred. Quickly turn the shrimp over and cook for about 1 minute on the other side, or until they are just opaque throughout, indicating they are cooked through.
- Transfer and Rest: Immediately move the shrimp to a serving platter to prevent further cooking from residual heat in the skillet.
- Finish and Serve: Pour the melted butter over the shrimp to add richness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for spritzing to add a fresh, zesty flavor.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are dry before seasoning for better spice adherence and searing.
- Use a cast iron skillet for best searing and blackening effect due to its superior heat retention.
- Cayenne pepper level can be adjusted according to your spice preference.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their juiciest and most flavorful.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
