Spicy Baked Cajun Catfish and Shrimp with Zesty Lemon Butter

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that brings bold Southern flavors right to your table, this Spicy Baked Cajun Catfish and Shrimp recipe is calling your name! It’s the perfect balance of heat, tang, and buttery richness, all baked to golden perfection. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes—making it an ideal weeknight go-to.

Whether you’re new to seafood or a seasoned pro, this dish is a surefire winner. Let me walk you through the steps to create a meal that’s as simple as it is delicious. Oh, and don’t forget to subscribe to get more mouthwatering recipes sent directly to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: A simple recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes!
• Packed with Flavor: Cajun spices bring a smoky heat, while the zesty lemon butter adds a refreshing, tangy twist.
• Healthy Option: Baked, not fried, this dish is lighter yet still incredibly satisfying.
• Versatile: You can swap out the catfish or shrimp for other seafood if you prefer—anything from tilapia to scallops works!

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine the rich, smoky flavor of Cajun seasoning—paprika, garlic, and onion all mingling to create a deep, savory bite. Then, add in tender catfish and juicy shrimp, baked just right, so each bite melts in your mouth. Top it all off with a zesty lemon butter sauce that cuts through the richness, brightening the dish and making each forkful irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this spicy seafood dish to life:

• 2 catfish fillets (about 1 lb/450g total)
• 1/2 lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small bowl (for mixing spices)
• Basting brush
• Measuring spoons

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

• Fish: If you don’t have catfish, try tilapia, cod, or even salmon for a different take on the recipe.
• Shrimp: You can switch out the shrimp for scallops, or omit the shrimp entirely and double the amount of fish.
• Cajun Seasoning: No Cajun seasoning on hand? Make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

How to Make Spicy Baked Cajun Catfish and Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season the Seafood

Pat your catfish fillets and shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they bake up crispy. Brush them with olive oil on both sides. In a small bowl, mix together your Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the catfish and shrimp.

Step 3: Bake

Place the seasoned seafood on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Make the Zesty Lemon Butter

While the fish and shrimp bake, melt your butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. The smell alone will have your mouth watering!

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Once the fish and shrimp are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness!

What to Serve with Cajun Catfish and Shrimp

To round out this meal, consider pairing the dish with:

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Rice or quinoa, to soak up all that buttery lemon sauce.
• A simple mixed green salad for a fresh and light side.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Catfish and Shrimp

• Don’t Overcook! Keep an eye on your seafood, especially the shrimp. They cook faster than fish and will become rubbery if left in too long.
• Use Fresh Lemon: The bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon juice makes a world of difference.
• Make It Your Own: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning based on your preference.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (unlikely, I know!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter and season the seafood ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I use frozen catfish or shrimp?

Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

What can I use if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick homemade version by combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of oregano or thyme.

Conclusion

There you have it—Spicy Baked Cajun Catfish and Shrimp that’s anything but boring! With its bold flavors, zesty lemon butter, and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing dinner guests, this dish will never disappoint.

Don’t forget to leave a review, pin it on Pinterest, or share your photos! I’d love to see how yours turns out.

Looking for more seafood inspiration? Check out these recipes:

• Spicy Shrimp Symphony Fried Rice
• Cajun Lobster, Crab, and Salmon Alfredo
• 5-Ingredient Marinated Grilled Salmon

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbs: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

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