Baked Cajun Shrimp

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the shrimp are well coated with the seasoning.
3. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the shrimp.
4. Arrange in Baking Dish:
   • Place the marinated shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp for added richness.
5. Bake in the Oven:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.
6. Broil for Crispiness (Optional):
   • If you prefer a slightly crisp texture on the top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the baked Cajun shrimp from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.
8. Serve Warm:
   • Serve the baked Cajun shrimp over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. Enjoy!