If you’re craving a dish that brings bold, vibrant flavors together with comforting textures, the Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe is an absolute winner. This meal combines spicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp with fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes and tender, caramelized broccolini for a harmony of taste and color that’s sure to brighten up any dinner table. Whether you want a weeknight supper that feels a little special or a dish to impress friends, this recipe balances smoky heat and fresh greens in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect balance in this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe. Each element plays an essential role, from the spices that pack a punch to the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and comfort.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Choose peeled and deveined shrimp for quick and easy cooking with the perfect tender bite.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Used for roasting and cooking, it adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps crisp up the shrimp and broccolini.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): The star spice blend that brings the dish’s signature smoky and spicy flavor.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a mild sweetness that complements the Cajun seasoning beautifully.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Offers a warm, savory background note in both the shrimp and potatoes.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances umami and rounds out the seasoning profile.
- Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon): Adjust this to your spice preference for a gentle or fiery kick.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and heighten all flavors in the dish.
- Russet potatoes (4 medium): High starch content makes for fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and smooth texture to the mashed potatoes.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): For that luxurious creaminess that makes the potatoes heavenly.
- Broccolini (1 bunch): This vibrant green vegetable brings color and a slightly sweet, peppery crunch to the plate.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon, optional): A bright finishing touch that lifts the roasted broccolini’s flavor.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting the russet potatoes into even chunks so they cook uniformly. Boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well, then mash with butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. Set aside and let the rich flavors meld while you move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Roast the Broccolini
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccolini with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, making sure every stalk is well coated. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes. They should become tender with slightly charred edges, which brings out a wonderful natural sweetness. If you love a hint of zest, sprinkle lemon zest over the broccolini right before serving for an extra fresh note.
Step 3: Cook the Cajun Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, coat the peeled and deveined shrimp evenly with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight crisp on the edges that’s just irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
It’s time to bring everything together! On each plate, spread a generous bed of the creamy mashed potatoes, lay down a handful of the spicy Cajun shrimp, and add a serving of the roasted broccolini. This layered presentation not only looks inviting but ensures every bite hits all the best flavors and textures you’ve prepared.
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really elevate this dish. Try sprinkling chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness that cuts through the richness. Lemon wedges on the side are a perfect complement, allowing each person to add a pop of brightness that balances the spicy shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
Though this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe shines all on its own, you can add a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread for crunch and to soak up the delicious flavors. A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon pairs wonderfully here as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider serving the shrimp in small individual cast iron skillets atop the mashed potatoes, with broccolini artfully arranged on the side. Alternatively, stack the mashed potatoes in a ring shape and heap the shrimp in the center, draping broccolini around it—an eye-catching dinner plate that will surely impress your dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to ensure maximum freshness without losing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the mashed potatoes and shrimp separately for best results. Store mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container and the cooked shrimp in a sealed bag or container. Both should be used within 1 to 2 months. Roasted broccolini is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen as well though the texture may soften.
Reheating
Reheat mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop or in a microwave, stirring in a splash of cream or milk to bring back creaminess. Warm the shrimp quickly in a pan over medium heat, being careful not to overcook. Reheat broccolini in the oven or microwave until just warm to preserve its tender crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture and flavor.
How spicy is this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to the blend of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. You can easily adjust the cayenne amount to make it milder or spicier based on your taste.
Can I substitute the broccolini with another vegetable?
Yes, tender-crisp vegetables like asparagus or green beans work well roasted alongside this dish, bringing a similar texture and a lovely green color to your plate.
What wine pairs best with this meal?
A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Chardonnay complements the spicy and creamy elements beautifully, balancing out the flavors without overwhelming the seafood.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients. Just be sure to check your Cajun seasoning blend if you’re buying pre-made to confirm it’s gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe enough for anyone wanting a fantastic balance of spice, comfort, and freshness in one meal. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and feels just a little fancy—perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try, and I’m confident it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen too!
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Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
A flavorful and satisfying meal featuring spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp served over creamy mashed potatoes, complemented by tender roasted broccolini with a hint of lemon zest. This dish balances spicy, creamy, and roasted elements for a comforting dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Mashed Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Roasted Broccolini
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the cooked potatoes with butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside to keep warm.
- Roast the Broccolini: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Optional: sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.
- Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Assemble the Dish: Serve the cooked Cajun shrimp over a bed of mashed potatoes with the roasted broccolini on the side.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Cajun shrimp dinner!
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For extra creaminess in mashed potatoes, you can add more butter or cream.
- Broccolini can be swapped with broccoli if unavailable.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs or lemon enhances the freshness of the dish.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be used if properly thawed.
