Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound extra large grilling shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
Seasoning
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
- Make the Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, then whisk until fully blended.
- Coat the Shrimp: Wearing vinyl gloves, toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture until each shrimp is well coated with the bold spice blend.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot before adding the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for 3 minutes until the shrimp are blackened and cooked through with a spicy crust. Use tongs to flip the shrimp.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best results; avoid pre-cooked shrimp.
- Cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted to control the spiciness.
- Cooking shrimp in a single layer is important to achieve a good blackened crust.
- Blackened shrimp are delicious served with rice, in tacos, or over a fresh salad.
- Use vinyl gloves when tossing shrimp in seasoning to avoid staining hands.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
