You don’t want to lose this recipe. My friend who doesn’t even like shrimp, loves this dish!

Instructions

1. Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the peeled shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss well until the shrimp are evenly coated.

2. Assemble the Foil Packet: Tear off a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 18 inches long). Place the seasoned shrimp in the center of the foil. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper. Bring the two long sides of the foil together and fold them over several times to create a tight seal. Then, fold in the open ends to completely enclose the shrimp, forming a packet.

3. Bake: Place the foil packet on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp.

4. Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the packet rest for a few minutes. The steam inside will be very hot—open the packet cautiously, away from your face. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Balance the bold, spicy flavors of the shrimp with cool and creamy sides. A helping of creamy coleslaw or a crisp cucumber salad works perfectly. For heartier options, serve with buttery corn on the cob or crusty garlic bread, which is ideal for sopping up the delicious lemony butter sauce from the packet.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp towards the end of the baking time. They cook quickly and can become tough and rubbery if overcooked. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.

• Make It a Full Meal: For a one-packet dinner, add small new potatoes (parboil them first to ensure they cook through) or pieces of corn on the cob to the foil packet with the shrimp.

• Customize the Heat: This recipe is easily adjustable. Love it hot? Add an extra pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce before sealing the packet. Prefer it milder? Reduce or omit the cayenne and red pepper flakes.

• Add Color and Sweetness: Toss in some sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) with the shrimp for a pop of color and a touch of natural sweetness.

This baked shrimp recipe is more than just a quick meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy something truly satisfying. So, put on your favorite playlist, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as warm and welcoming as it is delicious. Happy cooking!