Ingredients
Seasoning Mix
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon celery salt
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1¼ pounds medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for shrimp seasoning)
- 2 12-inch baguettes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 8 ounces shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 large tomato (sliced)
- 16 sweet and spicy pickle slices
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, ground black pepper, mustard powder, celery salt, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a balanced spice blend.
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in a large bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the shrimp and toss to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Prepare the baguettes: Slice the baguettes lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Optionally, toast the bread under a broiler or on a grill pan for 1 to 2 minutes until they are lightly crisp for added texture.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot enough for cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until shrimp turn pink, become opaque, and shape into a loose “C.” Remove promptly from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spread mayonnaise evenly on the cut sides of each toasted baguette. Layer shredded lettuce, fresh tomato slices, sweet and spicy pickles, and the cooked shrimp evenly over the bottom halves.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches, slice each in half for easy handling, and serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp while warm and the bread crisp.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase cayenne pepper amount according to taste.
- To add more smoky flavor, smoke the shrimp briefly on a grill instead of stovetop.
- Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor, avoiding frozen if possible.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute baguettes with gluten-free rolls.
- Leftover shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
