Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For Mashed Potatoes

01 - 900 grams potatoes, peeled and cubed
02 - 60 grams unsalted butter
03 - 120 milliliters warm milk or heavy cream
04 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For Garlic Butter Shrimp

05 - 450 grams large shrimp, peeled and deveined
06 - 30 grams unsalted butter
07 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
09 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For Creamy Cajun Sauce

10 - 15 grams unsalted butter
11 - 8 grams all-purpose flour
12 - 240 milliliters chicken broth
13 - 120 milliliters heavy cream
14 - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
15 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - 0.25 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
17 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ For Garnish

18 - Fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in generously salted water until fork-tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly. Mash the cooked potatoes with 60 grams of butter, warm milk (or heavy cream), salt, and pepper until a creamy consistency is achieved. Set aside and keep warm.
02 - Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry. Season them evenly with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
03 - In a large skillet, melt 30 grams of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Introduce the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.
04 - Using the same skillet, melt an additional 15 grams of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 8 grams of all-purpose flour until a smooth, golden roux forms. Continue cooking for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
05 - Gradually pour in the 240 milliliters of chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
06 - Stir in the 120 milliliters of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, 0.5 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 0.25 teaspoon of chili flakes (if desired for added heat). Simmer the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a slightly thickened consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Evenly spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto individual serving plates. Ladle a generous amount of the creamy Cajun sauce over the potatoes, then artfully arrange the garlic butter shrimp on top. Garnish abundantly with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately for optimal enjoyment.

# Notes:

01 - Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and chili flakes to your preference for desired spice level. For a milder flavor, consider reducing or omitting the chili flakes.
02 - For exceptionally creamy mashed potatoes, substitute heavy cream for milk in the preparation.
03 - This recipe yields best results with large or jumbo shrimp. Adjust cooking times as necessary if utilizing smaller shrimp to prevent overcooking.
04 - Consider enhancing the sauce with additional vegetables such as bell peppers or onions. Sauté them alongside the garlic for added flavor and texture.
05 - Serve this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad to create a comprehensive and balanced meal.

Back