When it comes to adding flavor to your meals, there’s no better way to do it than with a generous helping of spicy Cajun seasoning. Hailing from Louisiana, this bold and aromatic blend of herbs and spices has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of foodies everywhere. Whether you’re cooking up a hearty jambalaya or simply looking to add some zing to your roasted vegetables, Cajun seasoning is the perfect addition.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of Cajun cuisine. From classic dishes like shrimp and grits and blackened salmon, to innovative creations like Cajun butter steak bites and spicy Cajun corn chowder, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your apron, dust off your cast-iron skillet, and get ready to spice up your dinner game with these deliciously bold Cajun recipes!
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
This classic Lowcountry dish gets a bold Cajun twist with spicy sausage, garlic, and herbs. Serve over creamy grits for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Cajun sausage, sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– Butter or cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions with 2 cups water. Stir in butter or cream if desired.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, sausage, chicken broth, hot sauce, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve shrimp mixture over warm grits.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Blackened Salmon with Cajun Cream Sauce
This bold and flavorful dish combines the richness of blackening seasoning with the creaminess of a spicy Cajun sauce, perfectly complementing the delicate taste of salmon.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Cajun cream sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper; coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated salmon fillets; cook 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven; bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove skillet from oven; top each fillet with garlic and Cajun cream sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Experience the bold flavors of Cajun country with this spicy twist on a classic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine chicken, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
A classic Creole dish from Louisiana, this jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot wonder that combines the rich flavors of andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cooked shrimp (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot; set aside.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot; set aside with sausage.
4. Add rice to pot; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add broth, tomatoes, onion, celery, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
7. Add sausage and chicken back into pot; stir to combine.
8. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with shrimp on top (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cajun Spiced Roasted Potatoes
Get ready to spice up your potato game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of roasted potatoes with the zesty kick of Cajun spices. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these spuds are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Sprinkle parsley over the potatoes and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Big Easy with this classic New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp recipe, a twist on traditional Southern barbecue. Succulent shrimp are smothered in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup New Orleans-style BBQ sauce (such as Zatarain’s or your own recipe)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from heat and stir in BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill shrimp for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Cajun Butter Steak Bites
Succulent steak bites infused with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and melted butter, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cube steak (such as top round or rump), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Cajun seasoning and garlic powder.
3. Add the beef cubes to the dish and toss until coated with the spice mixture.
4. Place the butter in a separate dish and microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until melted and smooth.
5. Remove the steak from the spice mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each piece into the melted butter, coating evenly.
6. Place the coated steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Southern Cajun Fried Chicken
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering Southern Cajun Fried Chicken recipe! This classic dish is a staple of Cajun cuisine, and for good reason – it’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with spicy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, legs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Spicy Cajun Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the sweetness of corn with a spicy kick, perfect for a cozy evening or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, bell peppers, and tomatoes; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream; stir to combine.
5. Add the Cajun seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Rice and Sausage Skillet
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of spicy sausage, savory rice, and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cooked rice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the sweet and tangy taste of mango, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and fiery. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the spice mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the salsa and stir to combine.
7. Serve blackened catfish with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with these crispy Cajun crab cakes, served with a tangy remoulade sauce. This recipe combines fresh lump crab meat with spicy Cajun seasonings and a hint of garlic, resulting in a dish that’s both decadent and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Remoulade sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve chilled alongside Cajun crab cakes.
Sheet Pan Cajun Veggies and Sausage
Sheet Pan Cajun Veggies and Sausage Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on classic sheet pan cooking! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with tender sausage and colorful vegetables, all in one easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 large yellow bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Arrange the sausage slices, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and cherry tomatoes in a single layer on the prepared pan.
4. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and paprika evenly over the top of the vegetables.
5. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cajun-Seasoned Grilled Corn on the Cob
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck, this grilled corn on the cob is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend (containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and Cajun seasoning.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Place corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
A staple of Creole cuisine, this hearty dish is a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– Andouille sausage, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add the soaked red beans and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
6. Stir in cooked rice; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot with sliced Andouille sausage on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cajun Honey Butter Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots game with this sweet and spicy twist! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, all wrapped up in a rich buttery package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together softened butter, honey, and Cajun seasoning until smooth.
3. Add chopped carrots to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey-butter mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Spread the carrot mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Pasta with Sausage and Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of Cajun cuisine with a hearty pasta dish, featuring spicy sausage and sautéed peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. linguine pasta
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and chicken broth; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage-pepper mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Spiced Popcorn for Snacking
Add a kick to your snacking routine with this flavorful Cajun Spiced Popcorn recipe! This sweet and spicy treat is perfect for movie nights, game days, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn maker according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pour the spice mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (popcorn popping time) + 1 minute to mix with spices.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning! From spicy shrimp and grits to blackened salmon, Cajun chicken alfredo pasta, and more, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, poultry, or veggies, there’s something on this list for everyone. Try adding a dash of Cajun magic to your meals with recipes like New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, Cajun butter steak bites, and spicy Cajun corn chowder. Your taste buds will thank you!