Name: Baked Cajun Shrimp in Tin Foil Tray
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled & deveined; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp dried oregano; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt & black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving); Tin foil

There’s something immensely comforting about Southern cuisine that resonates with the heart, especially when it arrives in the form of a delectable Baked Cajun Shrimp in Tin Foil Tray. This recipe beautifully captures the essence of family gatherings in the countryside, where the aroma of home-cooked dishes fills the air, mingling with laughter and shared stories around the dinner table. Whether it’s a sultry summer evening, complete with the buzz of cicadas, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish offers a perfect balance of heartiness and vibrant flavors without demanding countless hours in the kitchen.

What sets this Baked Cajun Shrimp apart is its ability to marry the comforting simplicity of Midwestern cooking with the bold, spicy flair of Southern recipes. Utilizing a straightforward foil packet method, this dish ensures you can enjoy beautiful flavors while making clean-up a breeze. Who doesn’t love less time spent scrubbing pots and pans? Serve your shrimp with a side of creamy coleslaw, a crisp cucumber salad, or buttery corn on the cob, and don’t forget to have crusty garlic bread on hand to soak up every bit of that flavorful sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cajun Shrimp

Bold Cajun flavor that packs a punch in every mouthful.
Quick prep and easy cleanup, thanks to the convenient foil packets.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables, such as corn, potatoes, or bell peppers.
Perfect for serving a crowd without the hassle of complicated cooking methods.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into preparing your Baked Cajun Shrimp, it’s essential to set up your kitchen effectively to ensure a seamless cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools: you’ll need a large bowl for mixing, measuring spoons, a sharp knife for prepping any additional vegetables, and of course, tin foil to create those magic packets.

Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C), as this temperature will allow the shrimp to cook perfectly, becoming juicy and packed with flavor. Consider inviting some fresh vegetables to join the shrimp—they don’t just add nutrition; they enhance the dish’s overall flavor and texture. From red bell peppers to sweet corn kernels, the options are plentiful.

Ingredients

2 lbs large shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp sweet paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Tin foil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the shrimp cooks evenly, allowing those delicious Cajun spices to infuse properly during baking.

Step 2: Mix the Shrimp with Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with the olive oil and all the seasonings: Cajun seasoning, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss the shrimp thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the spices and oil, unlocking those irresistible flavors.

Step 3: Create Your Foil Packet

Tear off a sufficiently large piece of tin foil, approximately 18 inches long. Place the seasoned shrimp in the center of the foil, then drizzle with fresh lemon juice and season lightly with salt and pepper. Fold the foil over the shrimp, sealing the edges tightly to lock in the juices. This step is what makes the cooking process so easy because everything steams together beautifully!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your carefully sealed foil packet onto a baking tray and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark. The shrimp are ready when they turn pink and are cooked through. Be cautious when opening the foil after baking, as hot steam will escape.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, open the foil packet carefully and sprinkle the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze extra lemon juice over the shrimp to enhance the flavors even more, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal!

Variations

Protein: Feel free to substitute shrimp with other proteins like chicken or fish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as different proteins can require varying cooking times.
Vegetables: Add in fresh or frozen veggies such as corn, zucchini, or diced bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with the seasoning blend—adjust the heat level by adding more cayenne or adding additional herbs like basil or dill.

Cooking Notes

To save time, prep your shrimp and veggies in advance.
Make sure to fold the foil packets tightly, ensuring no juices escape during baking.
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the foil packets instead of baking.
You can bake multiple packets at once on a larger tray for serving a bigger crowd.

Serving Suggestions

Complement the shrimp with buttery corn on the cob for a delightful crunch.
A creamy coleslaw balances out the spice perfectly.
Pair it with some homemade garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Tips

When seasoning, taste as you go to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne and red pepper flakes.
For added freshness, top with some sliced scallions just before serving.
Make sure to check the shrimp at the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Baked Cajun Shrimp does have a kick due to Cajun seasoning. However, you can adjust the heat by reducing the cayenne and red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the shrimp and veggies and store them in the fridge in the foil packets until you’re ready to cook.

What can I serve with Baked Cajun Shrimp?

Delicious sides include coleslaw, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. Pairing it with a cold beverage enhances the experience.

Conclusion

Baked Cajun Shrimp in Tin Foil Tray is not just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings warmth to your dinner table. With its phenomenal flavors, charming simplicity, and easy preparation, this dish encourages everyone to indulge in delightful Southern comfort food. Whether you’re hosting family or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will surely impress your guests and create memories. Don’t forget to try out various adaptations and share your experiences in the comments below. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Cajun cooking today!