Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce is a flavorful dish that combines crunchy, seasoned shrimp with a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Timing

Making Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Marinate Shrimp: In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 15-30 minutes. This helps to tenderize the shrimp and allows the coating to stick better.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Fry Shrimp: Working in batches, fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Drain: Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Arrange the crispy Cajun shrimp on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle Sauce: Serve with the creamy sauce drizzled over the shrimp or on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	25g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste. For more heat, add cayenne pepper.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover shrimp and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Cajun Shrimp with Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating and coating.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added to mimic buttermilk.