Pan-Seared Gulf Shrimp with Cajun-Spiced Butter Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Succulent Gulf shrimp pan-seared and finished with a rich Cajun-spiced butter sauce, perfect for a quick seafood dinner. This southern-inspired seafood (low carb) ready in about 16 minutes blends Gulf shrimp, peeled and deveined, unsalted butter, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 6 min Serves 4 Southern cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create the Cajun seasoning.
  2. Step 2: Pat dry 1 lb Gulf shrimp and toss them in the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes on one side until pink and slightly charred.
  4. Step 4: Flip the shrimp and add 4 tbsp unsalted butter along with 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for another 2 minutes, spooning the melted butter and garlic over the shrimp to infuse flavor.
  5. Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 tbsp lemon juice and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, tossing the shrimp gently to coat in the butter sauce.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately with a sprinkle of additional parsley if desired.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Gulf Shrimp with Cajun-Spiced Butter Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 16 minutes (10 min prep + 6 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Gulf Shrimp with Cajun-Spiced Butter Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Gulf Shrimp with Cajun-Spiced Butter Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Gulf Shrimp with Cajun-Spiced Butter Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Pan-Seared Gulf Shrimp with Cajun-Spiced Butter Sauce low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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