Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp

Share the flavor, share the love.

There’s something magical about the bold and vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine, and when you combine that with the convenience of an Instant Pot, you have yourself a winning dish! This Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and ready in no time. The shrimp become tender and juicy, coated in a zesty sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a dinner party with friends.

The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the dish with a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp is not only delicious but also ridiculously quick to whip up. Here are a few reasons why you won’t want to miss out on this dish:

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
• One-Pot Wonder: The Instant Pot means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that?
• Flavor-Packed: The Cajun seasoning combined with fresh vegetables makes each bite a burst of flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and ingredient ratios to your liking.
• Healthy: Packed with protein and colorful veggies, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or avocado oil, sunflower oil, corn oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp, deveined and peeled
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for added heat)
• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 3 small bell peppers, diced (yellow, green, and red for color)
• ¼ cup vegetable stock or chicken stock
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

How To Make Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add 1 tablespoon of your chosen oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 2: Add the Shrimp and Spices

Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the shrimp! Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and chili flakes over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated. Toss everything together for about 2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb those fantastic flavors.

Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables and Stock

Add the diced bell peppers to the pot, mixing them in with the shrimp and onions. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This will add even more flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for just 1 minute. Yes, you read that right, just 1 minute! Once the cooking time is up, allow the pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Taste and Garnish

After releasing the pressure, carefully open the lid. Give the shrimp a gentle stir to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or Cajun spice if desired. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use quality shrimp: Fresh or properly frozen shrimp will provide the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook: The shrimp cooks very quickly, so it’s important to not extend the cooking time. They’ll become rubbery if overcooked.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning or skip the chili flakes.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the shrimp can lose their tenderness if left to sit.

Variations and Customizations

There are many ways to personalize this Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp recipe:

• Add extra vegetables: Consider adding zucchini, corn, or even okra for added texture and nutrients.
• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try substituting with chicken or tofu, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a rich, creamy sauce.
• Serve over grains: This dish is fantastic served over rice, quinoa, or even pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious this dish is), here’s how to store them:

– Allow the Cajun shrimp to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
– If you’d like to freeze it, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen shrimp, but you should thaw them before cooking for even results. You can place frozen shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes to speed up the thawing process.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp?

This delightful dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over rice, quinoa, or alongside crusty bread. A fresh green salad or coleslaw also complements the dish beautifully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the steps outlined in the recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level of this dish largely depends on the Cajun seasoning used. If you prefer it mild, start with a smaller amount of Cajun seasoning and gradually add more according to taste. The optional chili flakes can also be omitted for a milder flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp is a testament to how simple ingredients and a few minutes of cooking can yield an explosion of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish will surely delight your taste buds. The combination of succulent shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and fragrant Cajun spices creates a meal that is not only satisfying but also quick and easy. So grab your Instant Pot, follow these steps, and enjoy a taste of the South right in your kitchen!

Share the flavor, share the love.