Description
This flavorful Cajun Shrimp recipe pairs perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy mashed potatoes and tender, roasted broccolini. With a mix of bold spices and fresh ingredients, it’s a delicious and balanced meal ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Roasted Broccolini
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the peeled and chopped russet potatoes. Cook them until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes with butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside and keep warm.
- Roast the Broccolini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the trimmed broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Cook Broccolini: Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly charred on the edges. Optionally, sprinkle with lemon zest before serving for a fresh zing.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Assemble the Dish: Serve the cooked Cajun shrimp on top of a bed of creamy mashed potatoes alongside the roasted broccolini.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired, and enjoy your flavorful meal while hot.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level of the shrimp.
- If heavy cream is unavailable, whole milk can be used for a lighter mashed potato consistency.
- The lemon zest on the broccolini adds brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until opaque to avoid toughness.
- Leftover mashed potatoes can be reheated with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
