Print

Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Special Dipping Sauce – Spicy, Crunchy, Cozy

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This creamy and flavorful Cajun Shrimp features tender shrimp and bell peppers in a zesty, cheesy Cajun cream sauce. It’s perfect served over rice, pasta, or alongside a salad for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1 lb. uncooked shrimp, thawed and peeled

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

3 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons flour

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

3/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half)

1 tablespoon honey

2 teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s)

10 oz. Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, juice reserved

3/4 cup cheddar jack cheese, shredded

2 teaspoons lime juice

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Lime wedges, for serving

Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry and season with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Dice red bell pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté shrimp and bell pepper for about 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. Deglaze skillet with reserved tomato juice. Reduce by half over medium heat.
  4. Add butter and garlic, cook for 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Whisk in chicken broth, cream, honey, hot sauce, and seasonings gradually. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  6. Add drained tomatoes, simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheese gradually until melted. Add lime juice.
  8. Return shrimp and peppers to skillet, stir to combine. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice, buttered noodles, beans, or salad.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium Cajun seasoning if needed to control salt levels.
  • For milder heat, reduce hot sauce and skip cayenne and red pepper flakes.
  • Optional additions: corn, black beans, or diced avocado.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking shrimp.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/crispy-cajun-shrimp-with-special-dipping-sauce-spicy-crunchy-cozy/