If you’re craving something with a bold punch of flavor that comes together in a flash, this Blackened Shrimp Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine perfectly seasoned shrimp boasting a smoky, spicy crust that caramelizes in the pan, locking in juicy tenderness with every bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weekday dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, this dish brings a vibrant, restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen with minimal fuss. It’s truly a celebration of simple ingredients transforming into something extraordinary.

A white bowl holds a dish with three main layers. The bottom layer is light cream-colored wide flat noodles, spread loosely around the bowl with a soft texture. On top of the noodles is a layer of browned, seasoned shrimp, each shrimp reddish-orange with darker spices on the surface, arranged closely to cover the noodles. Garnishing the shrimp and noodles are small green parsley leaves scattered around. Resting on the rim of the bowl is a thick slice of golden toasted garlic bread with visible herbs. A yellow lemon wedge is placed on the noodles beside the shrimp. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a white cloth napkin with yellow floral prints nearby, and a glass with a light drink partially visible to the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Blackened Shrimp Recipe plays a crucial part, combining to create that irresistible spicy crust and succulent shrimp texture. Keep things simple but purposeful with just a handful of ingredients that bring color, flavor, and richness to the dish.

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Choose fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for the best texture and quick cooking.
1 tablespoon blackened seasoning: This blend of spices is the heart of the dish, delivering smoky heat and depth.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, creamy layer that browns beautifully and coats the shrimp evenly.
1 tablespoon oil: Helps get that perfect sear without burning the spices, balancing heat and fat.
Lemon wedges (optional for squeezing on top): A fresh pop of acidity brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.

How to Make Blackened Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp and gently patting them dry. This small step ensures that the seasoning sticks beautifully and the shrimp sears up nicely instead of steaming. Toss the shrimp with the blackened seasoning in a bag or bowl until each piece is evenly coated. This helps to infuse every bite with that signature smoky, spicy flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 2: Heat Your Pan

Next, melt the butter and add the oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. The mix of butter and oil is key because butter alone can burn at high temperatures, while oil helps maintain the heat needed for a perfect crust. You’ll want your pan hot and ready so the shrimp hit the surface with a sizzle, locking in all those spices.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. After about 2 minutes on one side, you’ll see the edges start to curl and the color change to a gorgeous pink. Flip them gently and let the shrimp cook on the other side for another 2 minutes—watch out, as they cook quickly! The blackened spices will crisp up, creating a beautiful flavorful shell while the inside stays tender and juicy.

Step 4: Serve Right Away

Once cooked, transfer your shrimp to a warm serving plate. If you like, drizzle the leftover browned butter from the pan over the shrimp for extra richness and flavor. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating enhances the overall brightness of the dish, providing a fresh contrast to the spices.

How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Recipe

A white bowl filled with cooked shrimp that are reddish-orange with a slightly crispy texture. The shrimp are arranged in a loose pile with their tails visible, and they are garnished with small green parsley leaves scattered on top. Around the shrimp, several bright yellow lemon wedges are placed, their juicy flesh facing outward. A gold spoon rests inside the bowl, partially visible on the left side. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate the presentation and flavor. Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and herbaceous notes that lighten the rich spices. Lemon wedges on the side not only look inviting but allow everyone to tailor each bite with a zesty splash.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a casual dinner, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up the buttery, spicy blackened seasoning. If you’re aiming for lighter fare, a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables bring balance and freshness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the plate? Try stuffing these blackened shrimp into warm tortillas with avocado and a dollop of sour cream for a vibrant shrimp taco. Or layer them over a cooling cucumber slaw for an innovative appetizer. The possibilities for this Blackened Shrimp Recipe are as exciting as the flavors themselves!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within 2 days to maintain their texture and flavor. Keep the shrimp away from strong-smelling foods to avoid any flavor transfer.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked blackened shrimp by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best results, use them within 1 month. Freeze in a single layer to prevent clumping, then transfer to a bag once solid. This keeps the seasoning crisp when reheated.

Reheating

The key to reheating blackened shrimp is gentle warmth to avoid turning them rubbery. Reheat quickly in a hot skillet with a touch of oil or butter, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to overcook shrimp quickly and diminishes the blackened crust’s texture.

FAQs

What is blackened seasoning made of?

Blackened seasoning is a blend of spices typically including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. It’s designed to create a bold, smoky, and slightly spicy crust when cooked at high heat.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking without excess moisture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The blackened seasoning has a bit of heat thanks to cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the level of spiciness by choosing your seasoning blend or modifying the amount used. It’s perfectly balanced for most palates.

Can I make this without butter?

While butter adds richness and helps develop the flavorful crust, you could substitute with oil alone for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the butter’s nutty flavor is a big part of what makes this recipe so special.

How long does it take to cook shrimp in this recipe?

The shrimp cook very quickly—usually about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them tough, so watch carefully for the shrimp to curl and turn pink for perfectly juicy results.

Final Thoughts

This Blackened Shrimp Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients and a bit of technique can transform everyday shrimp into a show-stopping dish full of bold flavors and beautiful textures. I can’t wait for you to try it because once you do, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again. It’s quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious—a perfect addition to your recipe collection!