Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner

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🍤 Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner

🔹 Servings: 2–3

🔹 Prep Time: 10 minutes

🔹 Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

🔹 Total Time: ~20–25 minutes

This is a complete one-basket meal (or two-stage cook) featuring spicy Cajun shrimp, roasted vegetables, and optional air-fried potatoes or rice on the side.

📝 Ingredients

For the Cajun Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade — see below)

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra smokiness)

For the Veggies:

  • 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced

  • 1 small zucchini, sliced into half moons

  • 1 red onion, sliced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Optional: extra Cajun seasoning (½ tsp)

Optional Sides:

  • Baby potatoes (halved or quartered)

  • Cooked white or brown rice

  • Corn on the cob (cut into thirds)

🔥 Homemade Cajun Seasoning (Optional)

Mix the following:

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

🍽️ Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

  • In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and lemon juice.

  • Toss to coat and set aside while you prep the veggies.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

  • In a separate bowl, toss sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, pepper, and (optional) extra Cajun seasoning.

  • If using potatoes, toss separately with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of Cajun seasoning.

Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes (if using)

  • If adding potatoes, air fry them first at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender and golden. Set aside.

Step 4: Air Fry Shrimp + Veggies

  • Lightly spray your air fryer basket with oil.

  • Add seasoned veggies to one side and shrimp on the other (or layer if needed but don’t overcrowd).

  • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through.

✅ Shrimp should be pink, curled, and opaque. Veggies will be slightly charred and tender.

Step 5: Serve

  • Plate shrimp and veggies with potatoes or rice.

  • Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of garlic butter or ranch (optional).

❓ Q&A Section

🔸 Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, but thaw them first and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning.

🔸 Q: Can I cook everything together in one batch?

A: Yes, if your air fryer is large enough. If not, cook in stages to avoid steaming instead of roasting.

🔸 Q: How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

A: Medium-spicy. Reduce or skip the cayenne if you want it milder. You can also buy a low-sodium Cajun blend.

🔸 Q: Can I add sausage to this dish?

A: Absolutely! Slice smoked andouille or chicken sausage and add it with the veggies. It pairs perfectly with the Cajun shrimp.

🔸 Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.

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