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Instructions
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter and olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat. If you like a bit more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Cajun Shrimp Scampi over linguine or your choice of pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Tips for Perfect Cajun Shrimp Scampi
- Cajun Seasoning: You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning, or make your own by blending spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and omit the red pepper flakes. For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.
- Wine Substitutes: If you don’t have white wine on hand, chicken broth makes a great non-alcoholic alternative that still adds depth to the sauce.
- Pasta Options: While linguine is a classic choice, you can also serve this dish with angel hair pasta, rice, or even on its own with a side of garlic bread.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp Scampi is a delightful fusion of Italian and Cajun flavors, offering the best of both cuisines in one dish. The rich, garlicky butter sauce paired with spicy, perfectly cooked shrimp creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or looking to impress guests with something special, this recipe brings a delicious twist to classic shrimp scampi that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with pasta, bread, or rice, and watch how quickly it disappears!