Cajun Shrimp and Corn Skillet

This Cajun Shrimp and Corn Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan dish that combines plump shrimp, sweet corn, and bold Cajun spices. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The vibrant mix of textures and spices makes this dish both hearty and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet meal delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s the ideal recipe for busy evenings when you need something fast, nutritious, and exciting. The Cajun seasoning infuses the shrimp and vegetables with a smoky, spicy kick, while the natural sweetness of corn balances the heat. Plus, it’s easy to customize and scale to your needs.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Fresh or frozen corn kernels

• Bell pepper, diced

• Onion, diced

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Olive oil

• Cajun seasoning

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 4–5 minutes.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. Add the corn kernels to the skillet. Cook until the corn is slightly charred and tender, about 4–5 minutes.

5. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

6. Push the vegetables to the sides of the skillet and add the shrimp in the center. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque.

7. Toss everything together in the skillet to combine.

8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Total time: 25 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Use chicken, andouille sausage, or tofu instead of shrimp.

• Vegetable additions: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for more variety.

• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer sauce.

• Grains: Serve over rice, quinoa, or grits for a heartier meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid overcooking to preserve the shrimp’s tenderness.

FAQs

How spicy is Cajun Shrimp and Corn Skillet?

It has a moderate spice level, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Is it necessary to use fresh corn?

No, frozen or canned corn works well if fresh is not available.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, cook the shrimp fresh just before serving to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

What kind of skillet should I use?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron works best for even heat distribution and slight charring.

How do I make homemade Cajun seasoning?

Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add a creamy element.

What side dishes pair well with this?

Serve it with rice, a green salad, cornbread, or roasted potatoes.

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Watch closely and cook just until they turn pink and opaque—usually 2–3 minutes per side.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your skillet is large enough, or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp and Corn Skillet is a vibrant, flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It offers the bold taste of Southern cuisine with the ease of a one-pan meal. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s a go-to option for those who want a satisfying, spicy, and wholesome dinner

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