Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 bold and spicy blackened shrimp recipes! Blackened shrimp, a staple of Louisiana cuisine, has gained popularity around the world for its rich, smoky flavor. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on traditional seafood dishes or seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, this collection of recipes is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From tacos and sandwiches to pasta and salads, these blackened shrimp recipes offer a wide range of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy. And with their spicy kick, they’re perfect for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best blackened shrimp recipes out there, each with its own unique flavor profile and cooking method. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for new ideas to try at home, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of spicy blackened shrimp and get ready to spice up your meals!
Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of blackened shrimp with the sweetness of mango salsa. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove from heat and stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with blackened shrimp, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Blackened Shrimp and Grits
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy and savory dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Crispy blackened shrimp are served over creamy stone-ground grits and topped with caramelized onions and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; blacken for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In another pan, cook bacon until crispy; remove from heat.
4. In the same pan, add diced onions and cook until caramelized.
5. Serve blackened shrimp over cooked grits with caramelized onions and crispy bacon on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
This recipe takes the classic New Orleans sandwich to the next level with blackened shrimp, crispy lettuce, and creamy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 crusty French bread rolls (Po’ Boy style)
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and butter.
3. Add shrimp to the mixture and toss until coated.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until blackened.
5. Split bread rolls in half and toast.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled shrimp on the bottom half of the roll, followed by chopped lettuce, remoulade sauce, and the top half of the roll.
7. Serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Blackened Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, blackened seasoning, and succulent shrimp with al dente pasta for a decadent and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp blackened seasoning (such as Tony’s Creole Seasoning)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and blackened seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and chicken broth, add to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with shrimp mixture and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Caesar Salad
Elevate your classic Caesar salad with the bold flavors of blackened shrimp. This recipe combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the richness of garlic butter and the crunch of croutons.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and garlic.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until blackened.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add butter and cook until melted.
6. Combine chopped lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing in a large bowl.
7. Add cooked shrimp to the bowl and toss with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blackened Shrimp and Avocado Quesadillas
Transform your quesadilla game with this bold and creamy fusion of flavors. Crispy tortillas filled with succulent blackened shrimp, velvety avocado, and melted cheese will become your new go-to snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and blackening seasoning. Brush both sides of the shrimp with the mixture.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until blackened and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese.
5. Arrange 2-3 blackened shrimp on top of the cheese, followed by diced avocado.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip and cook an additional minute.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Jambalaya
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the hearty goodness of jambalaya, adding succulent shrimp to the mix. The result is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and blackening seasoning. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine with rice and vegetable mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spicy kick of blackening seasoning with succulent shrimp and sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix shrimp, olive oil, blackening seasoning, rice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the shrimp mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blackened Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful chowder that combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and smoky spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and blackening seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
4. Stir in corn, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Shrimp with Cilantro Lime Rice
Add a burst of flavor to your dinner table with this easy and zesty recipe for Blackened Shrimp with Cilantro Lime Rice. A perfect blend of spices, citrus, and fresh herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Toss shrimp with the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions using lime juice, garlic, and water.
5. Add chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Blackened shrimp: heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until blackened.
7. Serve shrimp on top of Cilantro Lime Rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Scampi
This flavorful dish combines the spicy kick of blackening seasoning with the rich taste of garlic butter, all wrapped up in a delightful shrimp scampi package. Perfect for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and blackening seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of blackened shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and crispy vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and just set, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet; stir in chicken broth. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Add a spicy kick to your lunch routine with these flavorful wraps. A perfect combination of crispy lettuce, tender shrimp, and creamy avocado, all wrapped up in one delicious package.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups crisp lettuce leaves
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and blackening seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
3. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a cooked shrimp on each lettuce leaf, followed by diced avocado and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Add your choice of toppings, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blackened Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice
This tropical twist on traditional fried rice combines succulent blackened shrimp with sweet pineapple chunks, crispy vegetables, and savory seasonings. Perfect as a main dish or as a flavorful side for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced pineapple
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, peas)
– 6 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until blackened, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. In same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and blackened shrimp. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, combining flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Shrimp with Creamy Grits
Savor the bold flavors of Louisiana’s Lowcountry cuisine with this recipe, featuring succulent blackened shrimp served atop a rich and creamy grits base.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup creamy grits (see recipe below)
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until blackened.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In a separate pot, prepare creamy grits according to package instructions. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the blackened shrimp atop the creamy grits, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines the richness of mushrooms, spinach, and blackened shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, blackening seasoning, garlic, and salt.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with spinach leaves.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of mushrooms during the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Étouffée
A classic Louisiana dish gets a spicy twist with the addition of blackening seasoning and succulent shrimp. This hearty stew is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– 1 cup etouffée base (see below)
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice, for serving
Etouffée Base:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until blackened, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in blackening seasoning and etouffée base. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine with sauce.
6. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Shrimp and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful twist on traditional shrimp and potatoes, this recipe combines the spicy kick of blackening seasoning with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and blackening seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. To assemble the hash, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, top with blackened shrimp, and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy blackened shrimp recipes that pack a punch of bold flavors! From tacos to pasta, sandwiches to salads, and everything in between, this collection has something for every palate. Discover mouthwatering combinations like Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa, Cajun Blackened Shrimp and Grits, and Garlic Butter Blackened Shrimp Pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or a rich and creamy sauce, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
