Bold, fiery, and full of flavor — that’s exactly what you can expect with this Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce. Each shrimp is perfectly seared to golden perfection, carrying a smoky char and a punch of Cajun seasoning in every bite. As if the crispy edges weren’t tempting enough, they’re drenched in a luscious, zesty sauce that’s rich with spices and a subtle tang, balancing the heat beautifully.

Ideal for a quick appetizer, a satisfying main dish, or even a creative taco filling, this dish brings a whole lot of excitement to the table. The shrimp stay juicy inside while developing that irresistible crisp on the outside, and the creamy sauce clings to them like a dream. If you’re looking for a “must-make” for seafood lovers or a new spicy favorite for dinner ideas, this one will absolutely hit the spot.

Ingredients for Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon honey
1 clove garlic, finely minced
Pinch of smoked paprika

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting that crispy sear. Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt over the shrimp. Gently toss or stir until every shrimp is beautifully coated with the spice blend. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare your pan.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a splash of olive oil if needed, then place the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once, until the shrimp are cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

While the shrimp cook, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of smoked paprika in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste — you can add more Cajun spice if you love it extra bold.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the crispy shrimp to a serving bowl or plate. Generously drizzle the creamy sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine with a dish this irresistible), store your Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce properly to keep them fresh:

Refrigerator: Place the shrimp and sauce in separate airtight containers. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the shrimp in a hot skillet for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve their crispy texture.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this dish as the shrimp may lose their crispy coating and the sauce can separate once thawed.

Pro Tip: Always add the creamy sauce fresh after reheating for the best flavor and texture!

Estimated Nutrition

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Cholesterol: 210mg

This makes it a high-protein, low-carb option, perfect for keto and low-carb diets!

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun shrimp?

The heat level is medium, but you can easily adjust it by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.

What’s the best skillet to use?

A heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron, gives the best crispy sear on the shrimp.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Yes! Grilling them over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes per side works beautifully.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. You can prepare the creamy sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it refrigerated.

What other proteins can I use?

This recipe works great with chicken strips or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Substitute the sour cream in the sauce with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s better enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and seasoned shrimp separately and cook them just before eating for a quick meal.