If you’re looking for a showstopping seafood dish that’s bursting with color, smoky spice, and weeknight-easy charm, these Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers are your answer! Sweet, succulent shrimp get tossed in bold Cajun spices, kissed by the grill, and served up with zippy lemon and fresh herbs for a meal that tastes like it came straight from a festive Southern cookout. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want to shake up your dinner game, Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers bring big flavor with minimal fuss—there’s nothing quite like them when you want immediate wow-factor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about these skewers is how quickly and simply you can get them on your table, thanks to a handful of key ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in creating that irresistible Cajun flavor profile and juicy, tender texture that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Large shrimp (1 ½ pounds, peeled and deveined, tails on): Go for fresh or thawed shrimp for the juiciest, most satisfying results.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the seasoning stick and adds a lush richness to the grilled shrimp.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): The secret backbone of this dish—choose your favorite store-bought blend or make your own for extra kick.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds savory warmth without overwhelming the other spices.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings gentle smokiness and a gorgeous deep red color.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the marinade and keeps the shrimp tasting fresh and lively.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked, and metal ones can go straight onto the grill.
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges (for serving): A sprinkle of green and a citrusy squeeze make every bite pop.
How to Make Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Step 1: Soak the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by submerging them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning or charring on the grill, so your Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers come off clean and safe every single time. Metal skewers need no prep, so just have them ready to go!
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine your shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a good squeeze of lemon juice. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until each shrimp is thoroughly coated. The marinade infuses every bite with spice, tang, and a bit of smokiness—the perfect kickoff to Cajun flavor.
Step 3: Thread the Skewers
Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, nestling them snugly so they cook evenly but aren’t overcrowded. There’s something fun about assembling these skewers, and it’s a great opportunity to get the family involved in the kitchen.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange the skewers on the grates and let them sizzle for 2–3 minutes per side. Watch closely: you’re looking for pink, opaque shrimp with a touch of char—that means flavor! Flip once, and remove them as soon as they’re done to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Transfer your Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers to a serving platter, then shower them with fresh chopped parsley and offer plenty of lemon wedges for squeezing. This last touch brightens up each bite and elevates the whole dish to something truly special.
How to Serve Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges are an absolute must for the ideal finish. The parsley adds color and a gentle herbal lift, while the lemon wedges let everyone customize their level of citrusy zing on the spot. If you want extra flair, try a little sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving—it makes every bite taste restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers are delicious with all sorts of classic sides! Pile them over steamed rice to soak up those spicy juices, serve next to grilled veggies for a rainbow of flavors, or make it light and breezy with a big leafy salad. They’re also fantastic alongside creamy coleslaw or simple buttered corn on the cob—summer on a plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Slide the shrimp off the skewers and toss them into tacos with avocado and fresh salsa, or layer them onto a crusty baguette for the ultimate shrimp po’boy. For party appetizers, present each skewer upright in a tall glass with lemon wedges or arrange them on a serving platter with colorful microgreens for a fresh, modern look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers (lucky you!), let them cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. They’re perfect cold, right out of the fridge, or repurposed into salads and wraps for a new meal the next day.
Freezing
While freshly grilled is always best, you can freeze cooked shrimp if needed. Remove them from the skewers and lay in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using in recipes—just know the texture will be a touch firmer after freezing.
Reheating
For the most tender results, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make shrimp rubbery. Always heat just until warmed through, since shrimp are quick to overcook.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw your shrimp in the refrigerator or under cold running water and pat them dry before marinating so the spices and oil stick well.
How do I know when the shrimp are done grilling?
Shrimp cook in flash—they should be pink, opaque, and slightly curled. The moment you see those gorgeous grill marks and the shrimp are no longer translucent, they’re perfect. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep a close eye!
What brand of Cajun seasoning works best?
Any store-bought Cajun blend will work, but if you love a signature flavor, consider mixing your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme. This way, you can fine-tune the spice and salt levels for your taste buds.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
If you can’t grill, bake the skewers in a 425°F oven on a lined baking sheet for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. You won’t get the same smoky char, but you’ll still get juicy, flavorful shrimp.
Do Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers work well for meal prep?
They’re fantastic for meal prep! Store the shrimp chilled, and use them to top salads, fold into grain bowls, or tuck into wraps during the workweek. Just keep the garnishes fresh and add them right before eating for maximum pizzazz.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to spice up your table, don’t wait—Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers are easy, fast, and punchy enough to make any meal memorable. Whether you’re grilling for one or feeding a hungry crowd, give them a try and watch everyone dig in with a smile!
Print
Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for summer grilling. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty Cajun seasoning mix, then grilled to perfection. Serve these skewers with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- juice of ½ lemon
Additional:
- wooden or metal skewers
- chopped parsley and lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
- Skewer the Shrimp: Thread shrimp onto skewers, about 4–5 shrimp per skewer.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove from grill, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- You can use pre-cooked shrimp, but reduce grill time to 1–2 minutes per side.
- Serve with rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer portion
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
