Go Back
Close-up of seared Crispy Cajun Shrimp showing the textured dark red-brown rub and charred edges.

Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Orange Zest Drizzle

These Crispy Cajun Shrimp feature a blackened, spice-heavy crust and a thick, glossy orange zest cream sauce. Perfectly seared with charred edges, this 20-minute meal is a visual and flavor powerhouse perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin for Later
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Large Shrimp tail-on, peeled and deveined (450g)
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika (15g)
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder (5g)
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder (5g)
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano (2.5g)
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme (2.5g)
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (1.25g)
  • 2 tbsp Avocado Oil (30ml)
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (120ml)
  • 1 whole Orange zested and juiced
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley finely chopped
  • 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes

Equipment

  • 1 Cast-Iron Skillet Ensures the best char
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Shrimp
  1. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne until heavily coated in the dark red-brown spice rub.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes undisturbed to achieve charred edges. Flip and cook for 1-2 more minutes. Remove from pan.
Make the Sauce
  1. Lower heat to medium. Add heavy cream and orange juice to the pan, whisking to incorporate the spices. Stir in orange zest and simmer until the sauce is thick and glossy.
  2. Place shrimp in a dark bowl, drizzle with the orange sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes.

Notes

Ensure the pan is shimmering hot before adding shrimp to get the 'crispy' texture.
Use fresh orange zest for the best aromatic experience.