Introduction
Do you love shrimp that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside? What if we add a little spicy kick and a creamy sauce on top? Sounds delicious, right? This Easy Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or even a weekend treat. It takes just a few simple steps and basic ingredients.
You don’t have to be a chef to make it — anyone can do it! The best part? It’s full of flavor. The Cajun seasoning adds a bold, spicy touch, while the creamy sauce helps cool things down. Together, they create the perfect bite every time. Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need. You’ll find most of these items in a regular kitchen.
For the Crispy Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 pound (about 450 grams) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best)
- 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Pinch of garlic powder
Step-by-Step Process – Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Wash the shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Add a bit of salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Let them sit for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Set Up a Breading Station
You’ll need three bowls:
- One with flour
- One with beaten eggs
- One with breadcrumbs
Now, take each shrimp and:
- Dip it in flour (shake off extra)
- Dip it in egg
- Roll it in breadcrumbs
Do this for all the shrimp and place them on a plate.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
- Heat oil in a frying pan (about 1 inch deep). Use medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), gently place the shrimp in.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place them on paper towels to drain extra oil.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the shrimp are cooling down:
- Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, honey, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve!
- Place the crispy shrimp on a plate.
- Drizzle the creamy sauce on top or serve it on the side as a dip.
- You can also garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Cholesterol | 190mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes! You can bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes. Flip halfway for even crispiness.
2. What is Cajun seasoning made of?
Cajun seasoning usually includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. You can buy it ready-made or mix your own.
3. Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a mild to medium spice level. If you don’t like much heat, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild version.
4. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and dry them well before cooking.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce is the kind of dish that makes everyone smile. It’s crispy, spicy, creamy, and super tasty. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or a quick snack for friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
The best part? It doesn’t take much time or effort. Even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe simple and fun to make. So go ahead — grab some shrimp and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!
