Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a relaxed weeknight dinner to a festive family gathering. The shrimp is bathed in a flavorful Cajun seasoning blend that includes a dash of heat from cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes, balanced by the richness of garlic powder and thyme. The tin foil method locks in the flavors and moisture, so you get perfectly cooked shrimp every time. It’s easy, no-fuss cooking at its finest, and the best part? Clean-up is a breeze!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Parsley, chopped for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Tin foil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss the shrimp gently until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Tear off a large piece of tin foil and place the seasoned shrimp in the center. Drizzle lemon juice over the shrimp, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
Fold the edges of the foil together to create a sealed packet, ensuring all the flavorful juices stay inside.
Place the foil packet on a baking tray and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.
Once done, carefully open the foil packet, allowing the aromatic steam to escape.
Serve the shrimp directly from the foil for easy clean-up, garnish with chopped parsley, and add lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total time: 25 to 30 minutes

Variations & Tips

For a heartier meal, add chunks of corn on the cob or diced potatoes into the foil packet along with the shrimp.
If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Add bell peppers for a colorful, sweet contrast to the spicy shrimp.
To prevent overcooking the shrimp, check for doneness after 15 minutes. Once the shrimp are pink, they’re ready to be served.
For the best results, use fresh shrimp, but frozen shrimp can work too—just make sure they’re fully thawed before seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Baked Cajun Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp during reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess water before seasoning.

2. How do I know when the shrimp is cooked through?

The shrimp should turn pink and opaque when cooked. You can also check by cutting into the largest shrimp; it should be white inside with no translucent spots.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prep the shrimp and seasoning in advance and store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.

4. What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve the shrimp directly from the foil packet for minimal cleanup. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and pair with sides like creamy coleslaw, cucumber salad, or garlic toast.

5. Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes.

6. Can I add vegetables to the foil packet?

Yes! Bell peppers, onions, or even small potatoes make a great addition to this dish.

7. How can I make the shrimp spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to boost the heat, or include some finely chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

8. Can I use a different type of seasoning instead of Cajun seasoning?

Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can use Old Bay seasoning, a lemon pepper blend, or even a simple garlic butter seasoning mix.

9. Can I cook the shrimp on the grill?

Yes! You can transfer the foil packet to the grill instead of baking in the oven. Just grill over medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes.

10. What sides pair well with this dish?

This spicy shrimp pairs beautifully with creamy sides like coleslaw, as well as fresh salads, corn on the cob, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Baked Cajun Shrimp in Tin Foil Tray is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the bold, zesty flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for customizing to your taste, and easy enough for even the busiest of weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a small family or serving a crowd, this shrimp dish is sure to become a favorite!

Baked Cajun Shrimp in Tin Foil Tray