Get ready to spice up your meals with these mouth-watering Cajun recipes! As a beginner, you might think that cooking Cajun food requires a lot of experience and expertise. But fear not, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of 18 Spicy Easy Cajun Recipes is perfect for anyone who wants to try their hand at this flavorful cuisine.
From classic dishes like Jambalaya and Gumbo to seafood favorites like Shrimp and Grits and Crawfish Boil, we’ve included a variety of recipes that showcase the bold flavors and spices that Cajun cooking has to offer. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and require minimal ingredients, so you can start cooking with confidence.
In this article, we’ll take you through each of our 18 Spicy Easy Cajun Recipes, giving you a taste of what these dishes have to offer. Whether you’re looking for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
Easy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Savor the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple yet satisfying dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy Cajun seasoning, and creamy grits. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and just cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cooked grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Chicken Pasta
Add a spicy kick to your pasta night with this speedy and flavorful recipe! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened (1 minute).
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Simple Cajun Jambalaya
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic one-pot dish that combines sausage, chicken, and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the rice, chicken broth, and cooked sausage and chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Cajun Red Beans and Rice
A classic Louisiana staple that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines tender red beans with aromatic spices and savory rice for a comforting, one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, paprika, and cayenne (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked red beans, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
5. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by 2 inches; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
7. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy seafood experience with this classic Cajun crawfish boil recipe, perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings. This one-pot wonder combines the rich flavors of cajun spices, garlic, and citrus with succulent crawfish, making it an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound crawfish tails
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or boil, combine crawfish tails, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic.
2. Add water to the pot, making sure the crawfish are covered.
3. Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until crawfish turn bright red and shells crack open.
5. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Easy Cajun Corn Maque Choux
This classic Louisiana side dish combines sweet corn with smoky sausage and a hint of spice. Perfect as a side or added to your favorite main courses, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the corn kernels and Cajun seasoning; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the corn is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Cajun Dirty Rice
This classic Southern dish gets a boost of flavor from cajun seasoning, making it a perfect side dish or base for your favorite meals. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this quick dirty rice recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cajun seasoning to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the onion mixture.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cajun Gumbo
Get ready for a flavorful and hearty bowl of gumbo with this simple recipe that combines the richness of okra, the spice of cayenne, and the comfort of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp okra, sliced
– 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, celery, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the rice, water, okra, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Cajun Blackened Salmon
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional blackening, this Cajun-inspired recipe brings the bold flavors of Louisiana to your table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and the spice mixture.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin side up (if they have skin).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the fish is blackened.
7. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Sausage Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch! This Spicy Cajun Sausage Skillet is packed with spicy sausage, crispy potatoes, and sautéed onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Spicy Cajun sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing the skillet
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil or butter and swirl to coat.
2. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add cubed potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Return sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sausage is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Easy Cajun Shrimp Étouffée
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this mouthwatering Cajun shrimp étouffée, packed with flavorful shrimp, vegetables, and a rich roux-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and flour. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer étouffée for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Cajun Crab Cakes
Spice up your appetizer game with these flavorful crab cakes, packed with chunks of fresh crab and a hint of Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, and egg. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Using your hands or a spoon, shape mixture into 6-8 patties.
4. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Cajun Fried Catfish
This classic Southern dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, with crispy catfish fillets smothered in a spicy Cajun seasoning blend. This recipe brings the bold flavors and aromas of the Bayou to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet in the buttermilk, coating completely, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Cajun Potato Salad
Easy Cajun Potato Salad Recipe Summary:
Get ready to spice up your potato salad game with this easy and flavorful Cajun-inspired recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (such as scallions or chives)
– 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning (or paprika and garlic powder mix)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, green onions, Creole seasoning (or paprika and garlic powder mix), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and toss gently until coated with the dressing.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for garnish.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (boiling potatoes) + refrigeration time (at least 30 minutes)
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Po’ Boy
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this spicy Cajun shrimp po’ boy! This mouthwatering sandwich is packed with succulent shrimp, crispy vegetables, and creamy remoulade sauce, all served on a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons remoulade sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and hot sauce. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Split baguette in half lengthwise and toast on grill or in toaster.
4. Assemble sandwich by spreading remoulade sauce on the bottom half of the baguette, followed by a layer of shrimp, lettuce, bell pepper, cucumber, and mayonnaise.
5. Drizzle with Dijon mustard and top with the remaining baguette half.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Cajun Andouille Sausage Pasta
A flavorful and spicy pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of a classic pasta dinner. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and Cajun seasoning to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Cajun Cornbread
This spicy cornbread recipe combines the warmth of cayenne pepper with the sweetness of buttermilk and the crunch of fresh corn kernels, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite southern dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the corn kernels.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cajun Okra and Tomatoes
This classic Southern dish is a staple of many Cajun households, where okra’s unique texture and flavor are perfectly complemented by the bold spices and sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced okra and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the okra is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your life with these 18 easy Cajun recipes perfect for beginners! From classic Shrimp and Grits to Sausage Skillet, Dirty Rice, and Gumbo, this collection has something for everyone. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time. Try our Quick Cajun Chicken Pasta or Easy Cajun Blackened Salmon for a flavorful twist on dinner. And don’t forget to indulge in the spicy goodness of Spicy Cajun Crawfish Boil or Shrimp Po’ Boy! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these Cajun recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
