How To Cook Frozen Shrimp

How to Cook Frozen Shrimp: A Quick and Easy Recipe

Cooking frozen shrimp is incredibly simple and quick, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Follow this easy recipe to prepare flavorful, Cajun-spiced shrimp in just 15 minutes. This guide will take you through each step, ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp every time.

Ingredients

• Spices and Seasonings:
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Shrimp:
  • 1 1/2 pounds uncooked, cleaned, and peeled extra-large frozen shrimp (21 to 25 shrimp per pound)

Equipment

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small mixing bowl
• Colander
• Medium mixing bowl
• Rimmed baking sheet

Directions

1. Make the Cajun Spice Blend

Start by creating a flavorful Cajun spice blend for the shrimp. In a small mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Stir the spices together until well mixed.

2. Preheat the Oven and Baking Sheet

Arrange a rack about 6 inches under the broiling element in your oven. Place a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and set the broiler to high. Allow the baking sheet to heat for at least 10 minutes.

3. Rinse the Shrimp

While the oven is heating, rinse the frozen shrimp under cold water to remove any ice crystals. Place the shrimp in a colander and rinse under cool running water for about 1 minute. This helps to remove ice crystals and separate any shrimp that are frozen together. Shake the colander to remove as much excess water as possible.

4. Season the Shrimp

Transfer the rinsed shrimp to the medium mixing bowl with the Cajun spice blend. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated with the spices.

5. Broil the Shrimp

Carefully remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven. Quickly pour the seasoned shrimp onto the baking sheet. You should immediately hear the shrimp sizzle. Use tongs to arrange the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they are evenly spaced apart.

6. Broil for 5 Minutes

Return the baking sheet to the rack under the broiler. Broil the shrimp for about 5 minutes, until they curve slightly and become opaque.

Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Enjoy your perfectly cooked Cajun-spiced shrimp! This recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile, making it a great addition to salads, pastas, or served as a main dish with your favorite sides.