🔥 Bold & Spicy Blackened Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp cooks super fast, so this is an ideal recipe for busy nights. If you’re trying to eat low-carb or keto, this is one of those go-to dishes to have in your rotation.

To get that signature char and smoky crust, I use a cast iron skillet. It makes a big difference! A stainless steel pan just doesn’t give you the same result.

My Homemade Blackening Spice Mix

The seasoning is a mix of smoked paprika, cayenne or chili powder, and a handful of dried herbs. Together, they create a deep, rich flavor with a bit of heat and that classic blackened edge.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

• Raw shrimp – I go for medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined. You can use jumbo or small—whatever you have. Frozen shrimp works too, but fresh will give you the best texture.
• Olive oil – Helps the spices stick to the shrimp and helps create a crust when searing.
• Seasoning mix – A blend of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, and salt.

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. If needed, peel and devein the shrimp. Give them a rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Add shrimp to a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, combine your spices. Sprinkle them over the shrimp and toss well to coat.
4. If you’ve got extra time, let them marinate in the fridge for up to an hour (this step is optional but boosts the flavor).

🔥 Cooking Methods

1. Stovetop (Cast Iron Skillet)

• Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add shrimp in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Cook for about 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until the shrimp are blackened and cooked through.
• Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

2. Oven-Baked

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 10 minutes or until fully cooked and slightly crispy.

3. Air Fryer

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange shrimp in one layer in the basket.
• Cook for 5 minutes, flip, and air fry another 5 minutes until crisp and darkened.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Keep in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat:

• In the microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 1–2 minutes (longer if frozen).
• On the stovetop: Heat a small skillet over low heat, add shrimp, and warm until heated through, flipping occasionally.

🍽 What to Serve With Blackened Shrimp?

This shrimp recipe goes with pretty much everything! Try it with:

• Lettuce wraps
• Low-carb pasta or veggie noodles
• Chopped salads
• Cauliflower rice or broccoli rice
• Roasted vegetables
• Spicy dipping sauces like garlic chili mayo, sriracha, or a tangy lime crema

It even makes a great appetizer for date night or dinner parties!

💡 Tips & Variations

• Want to mix things up? Add garlic powder, onion powder, lime zest, or your favorite Cajun or Creole seasoning.
• You can even splash in a little hot sauce or lemon juice for a different flavor twist.
• Always cook shrimp in a single layer so they sear properly and develop that crispy blackened edge.
• Avoid overcooking—shrimp become rubbery if they’re on the heat too long. Keep an eye on them!

Bonus tip: If you have an outdoor grill or indoor electric grill, try grilling the shrimp instead of pan-searing for a smoky BBQ-style flavor.

📋 Blackened Shrimp Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 10–15 mins
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~177

🧂 Ingredients:

• 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp lemon pepper
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt

🔪 Directions:

1. Wash and pat shrimp dry.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with the spice blend.
3. Optional: Marinate for 30–60 mins in the fridge.
4. Heat a cast iron pan, spread shrimp in a single layer, and cook 4–5 mins per side.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides or sauce