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Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp

This Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp 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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil or avocado oil, sunflower oil, corn oil
  • 1 small Yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 pound 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
  • to taste Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • 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. 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.

Notes

Use quality shrimp for best results. Don’t overcook the shrimp to avoid rubberiness. Adjust spice levels to your preference.
Keyword Easy, Quick