Description
This Cajun Shrimp Scampi recipe combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, garlicky sauce infused with bold Cajun spices. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that delivers a delicious blend of zest, spice, and richness served over pasta or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood and Proteins
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Fats and Oils
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 Tbsp butter
- 1 additional Tbsp butter (for smoothness)
Aromatics and Spices
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Liquids
- 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken stock)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon (juiced)
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat fats: Heat olive oil and butter in a wok over medium heat until melted, creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing the aromatic flavors.
- Add white wine: Pour in the white wine and stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with Cajun seasoning; cook for 3-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add cream and butter: Stir in the heavy cream and an additional tablespoon of butter to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season and simmer: Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice; simmer for one more minute to blend all flavors thoroughly.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan before serving to add freshness and slight nuttiness.
Notes
- You can substitute white wine with chicken stock for a non-alcoholic version.
- Serve this Cajun shrimp scampi over linguine, spaghetti, or with warm crusty bread.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the spice level to your preference.
- Make sure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Parmesan garnish adds a delightful umami contrast but can be omitted or substituted with a vegan cheese alternative if desired.
