Are you ready to spice up your cooking routine with a dash of Cajun flair? Look no further! Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant spices, and hearty portions. And the best part? These recipes are surprisingly easy to make, even for culinary newcomers.
In this article, we’re excited to share 18 mouth-watering Cajun recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like jambalaya and gumbo to modern twists on traditional favorites, these spicy eats are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy Cajun recipes will guide you every step of the way.
In this collection, we’ve included everything from seafood-packed shrimp boils to comforting one-pot red beans and rice. And don’t even get us started on the desserts – our Cajun cornbread recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
So grab your apron and get ready to bring the heat with these 18 spicy easy Cajun recipes for beginners.
Easy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish gets a spicy kick in this easy-to-make recipe. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from pan; set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add Cajun seasoning, garlic, and parsley. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked grits to the spicy mixture; stir until combined. Serve with cooked shrimp on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Chicken Pasta
Get a flavorful and filling meal on the table with this speedy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Cajun seasoning to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
6. Add cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Cajun Jambalaya
Classic jambalaya gets a simplified twist with this straightforward recipe that’s packed with flavor and spice. This hearty one-pot dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, celery, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Easy Cajun Blackened Salmon
Add a spicy kick to your weeknight dinner routine with this simple and flavorful recipe. This bold and savory dish is perfect for those who love the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pot Cajun Red Beans and Rice
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot wonder that combines the classic Louisiana dish with the comfort of warm rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked red beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Stir in rice; cover pot with lid.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Cajun Corn Maque Choux
Add some spicy flair to your side dish routine with this simple recipe for Easy Cajun Corn Maque Choux. This classic Louisiana dish is a staple at many Cajun and Creole tables, and our version is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels. Cook until thawed and slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy twist.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Sausage Skillet
Savor the flavors of Louisiana with this easy and delicious skillet recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Spicy cajun sausage, bell peppers, onions, and potatoes come together in a hearty one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Cajun sausage, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add cooking oil or butter to grease the pan.
3. Cook the sausage, bell peppers, onion, and potatoes until the sausage is browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of hot sauce (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cajun Crawfish Étouffée
In this classic Louisiana dish, succulent crawfish are slow-cooked in a flavorful étouffée sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crawfish tails
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add crawfish tails, rice, fish stock, heavy cream, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir well to combine, then bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until crawfish are cooked through.
7. Serve étouffée over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped scallions and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Cajun Dirty Rice
This classic Southern dish gets a bold boost from the rich flavors of cajun spices and sausage. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously dirty rice that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as andouille), sliced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the rice to the skillet; stir to combine with the sausage mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted and fragrant.
6. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Shrimp Boil
Bring the flavors of Louisiana to your table with this speedy and savory shrimp boil recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 4-6 red potatoes, cut into wedges
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ingredients. Add the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, lemon slices, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the liquid and discard the solids. Serve the shrimp with the flavorful broth spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Simple Cajun Gumbo
This hearty gumbo recipe is a classic example of Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup okra, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Filé powder or ground cayenne pepper for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and okra; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, with filé powder or ground cayenne pepper on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Cajun Crab Cakes
Easy Cajun Crab Cakes Recipe
Summary: Elevate your seafood game with these mouthwatering crab cakes infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, egg, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab.
3. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a round cake.
4. Place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each cake.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the cakes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Cajun Andouille Po’ Boy
This spicy sandwich is a twist on the classic po’ boy, featuring crispy fried andouille sausage, crunchy remoulade slaw, and melted cheddar cheese on a soft baguette. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Cajun-style andouille sausage
– 4 hamburger buns (or French bread)
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Shredded cheddar cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the andouille sausage into thick rounds and fry in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette halves by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 2-3 minutes, or grill for 1 minute.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on each half, then topping with fried sausage, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle slices (if using), and finally the other baguette half.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Cajun Fried Catfish
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this quick and easy recipe for Simple Cajun Fried Catfish.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated fish on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Cajun Cornbread
This spicy twist on classic cornbread adds a bold flavor profile with the addition of cajun seasoning. Perfect for a comforting side dish or as a base for soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cajun seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and cajun seasoning.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Cajun Shrimp Tacos
Add a spicy kick to your taco Tuesday with these Quick Cajun Shrimp Tacos. This recipe combines the flavors of shrimp, cajun seasoning, and lime juice with crunchy tortillas and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Avocado or sour cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto warmed tortillas, squeezing with lime juice, and topping with cilantro and avocado or sour cream (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Cajun Okra Stew
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this comforting and easy-to-make Cajun okra stew. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the okra, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Cajun Stuffed Bell Peppers
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef or sausage, browned and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top (if using). Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking with these easy Cajun recipes! As a beginner, it can be intimidating to try out new dishes, but this collection of 18 simple and flavorful recipes is sure to guide you through the process. From classic shrimp and grits to jambalaya, gumbo, and more, these Cajun-inspired dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add some spice to their meals. With ingredients readily available in most supermarkets and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
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