The flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun country are known for being bold and full of spice. From shrimp boils to gumbo pots, there’s nothing quite like the rich, savory taste of traditional Cajun cuisine. And with these 20 recipes, you can bring that same level of heat and flavor to your own kitchen.
From classic dishes like jambalaya and blackened salmon to spicy twists on old favorites like chicken pasta and corn maque choux, we’ve got a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned Cajun cook or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So put on some zydeco music, grab a bib, and get ready to dive into the bold flavors of Louisiana with our collection of 20 spicy Cajun recipes…
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Get ready to spice up your breakfast or brunch with this classic Cajun dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a bold tomato-based sauce and served over creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 8 ounces stone-ground grits
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Serve shrimp mixture over cooked grits. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Cajun Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this simple and mouthwatering Blackened Cajun Salmon recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush both sides of the salmon with softened butter.
5. Sprinkle the Cajun spice mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
This classic one-pot dish from Louisiana combines the bold flavors of andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp, and rice to create a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and add to sausage.
4. Add the onion, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the rice, broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun Chicken Pasta
This spicy pasta dish combines the flavors of Cajun seasoning with sautéed chicken, bell peppers, and onions, served over a bed of linguine. A perfect blend of bold and savory!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and stir to combine. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer for 5 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil
Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil Recipe
This Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic Lowcountry boil, featuring succulent crawfish cooked to perfection in a spicy broth. Perfect for a fun gathering with friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large crawfish
– 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the crawfish, cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the crawfish turn bright red.
4. Remove from heat and add lemon juice, beer (if using), and butter. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the broth and discard solids.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread and your favorite sides!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Dirty Rice with Ground Beef
This classic Cajun dish is a hearty one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Corn Maque Choux
A classic Southern side dish gets a spicy kick with the addition of Andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning. This creamy corn dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite barbecue or seafood recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices Andouille sausage, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add corn kernels and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in heavy cream, scallions, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cream has thickened slightly.
5. Add diced Andouille sausage and stir to combine.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the corn is tender and the sausage is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Style Red Beans and Rice
This hearty dish is a staple of Cajun cuisine, perfect for a comforting meal or as a side to your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups long-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked red beans, onion, celery, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Pour in the cooked red beans and stir to combine with the oil.
5. Serve the red beans over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time:
– Red beans: 1 hour
– Rice: 20 minutes
– Total: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cajun Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Cajun Crab Cakes with Remoulade Recipe
Summary: Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with these mouthwatering Cajun crab cakes, served with a tangy remoulade sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or casual gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Serve warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Fried Catfish
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this crispy Cajun fried catfish recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 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 shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated catfish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Gumbo with Okra and Shrimp
A classic Cajun dish that’s perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this gumbo combines the flavors of okra, shrimp, and a rich roux-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add okra and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and paprika.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to the pot, whisking constantly.
6. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually add chicken broth and water, whisking until smooth.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
9. Season with thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and filé powder (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the warm spices of Cajun cuisine with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (optional)
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 evenly coated.
3. Spread potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun Seafood Étouffée
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the freshness of seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup seafood broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add seafood broth, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add shrimp and mussels; stir to coat.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, until seafood is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Stir in diced tomatoes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes
Cajun-Style Boudin Sausage
This classic Cajun dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, with its spicy blend of pork, rice, and seasonings. This recipe brings the flavors of Boudin sausage to your table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend (hot or mild)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, cooked rice, green onions, cheddar cheese, Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix all ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
3. Stuff the mixture into sausage casings or make into patties for grilling or pan-frying.
4. Cook sausages or patties in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side).
5. Serve with your favorite Cajun-style dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, or boudin balls.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to cook sausages or patties.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner! This hearty skillet combines spicy Cajun chicken, savory sausage, and tender vegetables in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the chicken and sausage back into the skillet. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
A classic Cajun-inspired sandwich that combines succulent shrimp, spicy seasonings, and crispy bread for a flavorful twist on the traditional po’ boy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 French bread rolls (or similar)
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 slices of American cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast French bread rolls by grilling them lightly or baking at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked shrimp on the bottom half of each roll, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and cheese (if using). Top with remaining bread half.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Grilled Oysters
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple recipe for Cajun-Spiced Grilled Oysters.
Ingredients:
– 12 oysters, shucked and rinsed
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Brush both sides of oysters with the spice mixture.
4. Place oysters on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re slightly charred and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Enjoy your Cajun-Spiced Grilled Oysters!
Cajun Turkey Neck Stew
Get ready to warm up with this hearty, comforting Cajun-inspired stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a twist on traditional turkey neck soup, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck (about 2 lbs)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the turkey neck on all sides over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then transfer pot to preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 1 hour, or until turkey neck is tender.
7. Remove from heat; let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cajun-Style Stuffed Bell Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty and delicious recipe. A blend of savory rice, spicy sausage, and sweet bell peppers creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb Cajun-style sausage (such as Andouille or boudin), sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice and mix well.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with this mouthwatering Cajun Garlic Butter Shrimp dish! This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy Cajun recipes! From seafood dishes like Cajun Shrimp and Grits and Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil, to hearty meals like Cajun Jambalaya and Cajun Chicken Pasta, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on classic Cajun favorites like Blackened Cajun Salmon and Cajun Fried Catfish. These bold flavors will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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