Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce – Spicy, Flavorful & Easy
Spice up dinner with these Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce! Perfectly seasoned and golden-fried, the shrimp are tossed in a luscious, creamy sauce for a bold and flavorful meal. Quick and easy to make, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or special occasions. Serve over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Equipment
- Air fryer, skillet, or oven with baking sheet
- Mixing bowls for dredging
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Whisk for sauce
- Optional: thermometer for precise cooking
Ingredients
For Crispy Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium-to-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 2 large eggs (beaten) or ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for air fryer or skillet)
For Creamy Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or sour cream
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Pat dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Set Up Dredging Station: Three bowls: seasoned flour, beaten eggs or buttermilk, panko/cornmeal.
- Coat Shrimp: Dredge shrimp in flour → dip in egg/buttermilk → coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.
- Cook Shrimp:Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F. Arrange shrimp single layer; cook 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.Skillet: Heat oil over medium-high; cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden.Oven: Bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prepare Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise/Greek yogurt/sour cream, garlic, smoked paprika, hot sauce (optional), and lemon juice until smooth.
- Serve: Toss shrimp in sauce or drizzle before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
- Crispier Shrimp: Use panko breadcrumbs and avoid overcrowding during cooking.
- Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt for sauce and air fryer for cooking.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Coat uncooked shrimp and refrigerate up to 12 hours; cook just before serving.
- Flavor Variations: Add Parmesan, lemon zest, or sriracha for different twists.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with rice, pasta, tacos, roasted vegetables, or as an appetizer with extra dipping sauce.