Get ready to spice up your culinary game with these 18 mouth-watering Cajun recipes! As a beginner, you might think that Cajun cooking is all about complicated seasonings and techniques. But fear not, dear reader, because we’re here to show you that Cajun cuisine can be just as easy to make as it is delicious.
From classic shrimp and grits to one-pot sausage and rice, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add a little heat to their meals. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. So, whether you’re a seasoned Cajun cooking pro or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our roundup of 18 spicy and easy Cajun recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Easy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
A classic Southern dish gets a spicy kick with this simple recipe that combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and bold Cajun flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and butter until smooth.
2. Reduce heat to low; add Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook grits according to package instructions; stir into the creamy mixture.
4. In a separate skillet, sauté shrimp over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve shrimp over grits, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Chicken Pasta
Get a flavorful meal on the table in no time with this spicy Cajun chicken pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and spicy sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup Cajun sausage, sliced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers, Cajun sausage, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and cooked chicken. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Serve over cooked pasta and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cajun Jambalaya
This classic one-pot dish combines spicy sausage, chicken, and rice with a medley of vegetables for a flavorful and filling meal. With its bold flavors and hearty portions, this jambalaya is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
6. Return sausage and chicken to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Cajun Red Beans and Rice
This classic Southern dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, made with tender red kidney beans, flavorful sausage, and aromatic spices. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked red beans, Cajun seasoning, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
One-Pot Cajun Sausage and Rice
This hearty one-pot dish combines spicy Cajun sausage with flavorful rice, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Cajun sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing the pot
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add chopped onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, and cooked sausage back to the pot.
5. Stir in rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Easy Cajun Corn Maque Choux
This classic Southern recipe is a staple at many Louisiana gatherings. Our Easy Cajun Corn Maque Choux is a simple and delicious twist on the traditional dish, packed with flavor from cajun seasoning and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the frozen corn kernels, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the corn is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Crawfish Étouffée
This hearty one-pot dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, packed with succulent crawfish and the bold flavors of cajun country. With this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious étouffée in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crawfish tails
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add crawfish, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add rice and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Cajun Dirty Rice
A classic Southern dish with a flavorful twist, this Simple Cajun Dirty Rice recipe combines the richness of dirty rice with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed ground meats (beef, pork, and chicken)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed ground meats and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until well combined with the meat mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Cajun Blackened Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this quick and delicious Cajun blackened salmon recipe. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a spicy and savory dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Dot the top of each fillet with butter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Cajun Gumbo with Shrimp
This spicy and savory gumbo recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich, dark roux and the bold flavors of Cajun spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, rice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cajun Crab Cakes
Add a taste of Louisiana to your dinner table with these flavorful crab cakes infused with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and Cajun seasoning.
2. Stir in the egg and mayonnaise until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook crab cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite tartar sauce or cocktail sauce.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.
Easy Cajun Andouille Sausage Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This Cajun-inspired skillet is packed with juicy andouille sausage, crispy bell peppers, and creamy scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage and set aside. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula. Season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Cajun Shrimp Boil
This recipe serves a flavorful and spicy shrimp boil that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With just a few ingredients, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 2 potatoes, peeled and halved (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add shrimp to the pot and toss to coat with spice mixture.
3. Pour in water, Old Bay seasoning, and potatoes (if using).
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cajun Okra and Tomatoes
This hearty dish combines the tender crunch of okra with the sweetness of tomatoes, all seasoned with a bold Cajun flair. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh okra, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced okra and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to brown.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down and the okra is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo
This recipe combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the Cajun seasoning and stir to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
5. Combine the cooked noodles, chicken, and cream sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Seafood Pasta
Quick Cajun Seafood Pasta Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy seafood pasta dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the simplicity of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and crab meat)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
3. Add the mixed seafood and Cajun seasoning. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until seafood is pink and cooked through.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and chicken broth to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and seafood mixture in the large pot. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Cajun Cornbread
Add a pinch of spicy kick to your cornbread game with this Simple Cajun Cornbread recipe. This classic Southern favorite gets a bold boost from the addition of cayenne pepper and paprika, perfect for accompanying your favorite gumbo or jambalaya.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Cajun Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cooked bell peppers.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking routine with these 18 easy and delicious Cajun recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Jambalaya and Gumbo, to mouth-watering seafood and sausage options, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp, chicken, or even blackened salmon, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Plus, they’re all easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy cooks on-the-go. So why wait? Dive into the world of Cajun cuisine and start cooking up some flavor!
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