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A delicious plate of Cajun Hot Honey Shrimp

Cajun Hot Honey Shrimp

This Cajun Hot Honey Shrimp recipe delivers a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Jumbo shrimp are quickly seared and then coated in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, thyme, lemon, and a fiery hot honey glaze, making for a quick and impressive meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Shrimp
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs raw jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined, fresh or thawed
  • 1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning adjust to your preferred spice level
  • 0.5 tsp Black pepper freshly ground, for seasoning shrimp
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for searing the shrimp
  • 4 tbsp salted butter for the shrimp sauce base
  • 3 cloves garlic minced, adds aromatic depth
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme or substitute with 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 lemon lemon zest finely grated, for bright citrus notes
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed, for acidity and brightness
  • 0.25 cup honey for the sweet component of the glaze
  • 2 tbsp salted butter for richness in the hot honey glaze
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper provides a significant kick to the glaze
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder adds savory depth to the glaze
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor in the glaze
  • 0.5 tsp Kosher salt to balance the flavors in the hot honey glaze

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Small Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Pat shrimp dry, then toss them thoroughly with Cajun seasoning and black pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and sear for approximately 2 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the 4 tbsp salted butter, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and lemon zest to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly browned.
  4. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Immediately remove the pan from the heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
  5. In a separate small saucepan, melt the honey, 2 tbsp salted butter, cayenne pepper, chili powder, paprika, and Kosher salt over medium-low heat, stirring until well combined and warmed through to form the hot honey glaze.
  6. Pour or drizzle the hot honey glaze generously over the cooked shrimp in the skillet. Toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with flaky salt, and accompanied by sides such as creamy polenta, crusty bread, or rice.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grits, rice, or a simple green salad.