Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp

The moment I hear about a dish like Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement. Picture this: a warm summer evening, the sun dipping below the horizon, and the tantalizing aroma of spices wafting through the air. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it beautifully combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the sweet, sticky goodness of honey. It’s a dish I’ve served at family gatherings and casual weeknight dinners alike, and every time it’s met with oohs and aahs.

Let me share a little secret: the best part of making Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp is how quick it comes together. I often find myself craving shrimp, and this dish fulfills that craving in under 15 minutes. It’s a lifesaver for those busy weeknights where you want something delicious but don’t have much time to cook. Plus, everyone loves shrimp, and the combination of flavors here is simply irresistible.

As I prepare the shrimp, I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I made this dish. I had friends over for dinner, and I wanted to impress them without spending hours in the kitchen. I decided to whip up Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp, and it was a hit! The shrimp were perfectly cooked, glistening with buttery goodness, and the hot honey sauce took it all to another level. I served it over creamy polenta, and my friends couldn’t get enough!

This dish is not just about the flavors; it’s about the memories we create around the dining table. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just enjoying a meal with family, Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp brings people together. It’s a reminder that good food is meant to be shared, and I can’t wait for you to experience it!

What You’ll Need for Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp

To create a fantastic dish like Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp, you’ll need a handful of key ingredients that work harmoniously together. The star of the show is, of course, the shrimp, which cooks quickly and absorbs all that delicious flavor. The Cajun seasoning adds the right amount of kick, while honey brings a delightful sweetness that balances the spice. Together, these ingredients create a vibrant dish that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.

• 1 1/2 pounds raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail-on or off: The main ingredient, shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with bold flavors.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cajun seasoning: This spice blend brings the heat and depth of flavor that defines the dish.
• Black pepper: A simple yet essential seasoning to enhance the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This helps in sautéing the shrimp and adds a nice richness.
• 4 tablespoons salted butter: Adds creaminess and richness, making the shrimp luscious.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Garlic brings aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme): Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity.
• Zest and juice from 1 lemon: Brightens the dish with acidity, complementing the shrimp beautifully.
• 1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness and creates a sticky, luscious sauce.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust to taste for an extra kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Enhances the spicy flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a rich, smoky depth to the shrimp.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor.

Putting Together Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp

Making Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a delightful meal in no time. Follow these steps closely to achieve the perfect results, and don’t forget to watch the shrimp closely to ensure they cook just right!

1. Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is essential for ensuring they sear nicely. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the cajun seasoning and a generous pinch of black pepper to coat them evenly.
2. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly. Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the pan. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want them to sear, not steam.
3. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the butter, garlic, thyme, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the butter melt, coating the shrimp in a rich sauce. Keep cooking until the garlic is lightly golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp. This adds a burst of acidity, balancing the richness of the butter and sweetness of the honey.
5. For the spicy honey sauce, melt together the honey, butter, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. To serve, plate the shrimp and generously drizzle the spicy honey sauce over the top. I love to finish it off with a sprinkle of flaky salt for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy your Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp with a side of creamy polenta or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Tips for Success

To ensure that your Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp turns out perfectly, here are some tried-and-true tips that will help you along the way.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• Freezing: If you have leftover shrimp, you can freeze them for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: You can prep the shrimp by cleaning and seasoning them ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
• Variations: Experiment with different spices or add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Options for Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp

When it comes to serving Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

• Over Creamy Polenta: Serve the shrimp over a bed of creamy polenta, which complements the spicy sauce beautifully.
• With Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp salad featuring greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the shrimp.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve with fluffy rice or quinoa for a heartier meal that’s still light.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for casual gatherings or dinner parties. Serve it family-style in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
• Seasonal Pairing: In summer, try serving with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob to highlight fresh produce.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp lies in its perfect balance of flavors and the joy it brings to the dinner table. It’s a dish that’s quick to prepare yet so decadent that it feels special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. With its bold flavors, you’ll be craving it again and again!

Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp

The ultimate comfort food, Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp delivers a tantalizing combination of sweet and spicy flavors. This easy weeknight dinner comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. Serve it over creamy polenta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You won't want to miss making this dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds shrimp peeled and deveined, tail-on or off
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
• black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 3-4 cloves garlic minced or grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
• 1 each lemon zest and juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper using more or less to your taste
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• kosher salt

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is essential for ensuring they sear nicely. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the cajun seasoning and a generous pinch of black pepper to coat them evenly.
2. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly. Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the pan. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan; you want them to sear, not steam.
3. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the butter, garlic, thyme, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the butter melt, coating the shrimp in a rich sauce. Keep cooking until the garlic is lightly golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp. This adds a burst of acidity, balancing the richness of the butter and sweetness of the honey.
5. For the spicy honey sauce, melt together the honey, butter, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. To serve, plate the shrimp and generously drizzle the spicy honey sauce over the top. I love to finish it off with a sprinkle of flaky salt for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy your Cajun Hot Honey Butter Shrimp with a side of creamy polenta or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• Tip 2: If you have leftover shrimp, you can freeze them for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: You can prep the shrimp by cleaning and seasoning them ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different spices or add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!