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This pan seared shrimp recipe is perfect for when you need a quick and flavorful meal on the table. With just a few ingredients and less than five minutes to cook, it makes a delightful appetizer or main course. Whether you pair it with a fresh salad or your favorite side, it’s a simple way to enjoy juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp without fuss.
I first made this recipe when I was short on time but wanted something tasty. It quickly became a staple because it’s so fast and always turns out perfectly seared shrimp with a bit of kick.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 pound of shrimp peeled and deveined for convenience and quick cooking
- Spicy fajita seasoning: One tablespoon of low sodium spicy fajita seasoning to add a smoky and mildly spicy flavor without overpowering
- Ghee or butter: Two tablespoons of ghee or butter to help crisp the shrimp and add a rich taste, ghee holds up better at high heat
- Tip: Choose shrimp that are firm and translucent for the freshest taste. If frozen, thaw completely and pat dry for best searing results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp thoroughly in the spicy fajita seasoning to coat them evenly, allowing the flavors to stick during cooking.
- Preheat Your Pan:
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s hot but not smoking. This ensures a good sear without steaming the shrimp.
- Add the Fat:
- Add the ghee or butter and let it melt and coat the bottom of the pan. The butter should start sizzling softly when the pan is ready.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Place the shrimp in the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side depending on their size—jumbo shrimp will take closer to 2 minutes per side. You want them to turn pink and slightly golden without drying out. Flip carefully to keep the coating intact.
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I love how the spicy fajita seasoning transforms the shrimp with minimal effort. One memorable time my family gathered for a quick bite during a busy afternoon, and these shrimp stole the show. The seasoning and quick sear made a dish everyone wanted seconds of.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days. When reheating, use a quick sauté rather than the microwave to keep them from becoming rubbery. For longer storage, cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to one month but may lose some texture upon thawing.
Ingredient Substitutions
- If you don’t have a fajita seasoning blend, a simple mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of chili powder works well too
- Butter can be swapped with olive oil but ghee adds better flavor depth especially at high heat
- Shrimp size can vary, adjust cooking times accordingly, smaller ones will cook closer to one minute per side
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these pan seared shrimp over a bed of fresh greens or alongside grilled vegetables for a light meal
- They also pair wonderfully with rice or quinoa to make a more filling dish. A squeeze of lemon or lime brightens the flavors even more
- Try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra touch
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of shrimp works best for searing?
Jumbo peeled and deveined shrimp are ideal as they hold up well to searing and cook evenly in a short time.
- → Can I use another fat instead of ghee or butter?
Yes, oils with a high smoke point like avocado or grapeseed oil can be used, but butter or ghee adds a rich flavor and helps create a crisp crust.
- → How do I know when the pan is hot enough?
The pan should be preheated on medium-high heat for several minutes until a drop of water sizzles immediately or the butter melts and bubbles without burning.
- → Is it necessary to use fajita seasoning?
No, you can substitute with your favorite spice mix, but adjust the quantity since some blends can be saltier than others.
- → What’s the best way to prevent shrimp from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the pan is properly preheated and coated with enough butter or ghee before adding the shrimp; avoid overcrowding the pan.
- → How long does cooking take for smaller shrimp?
Smaller shrimp usually cook in about 1 minute per side, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.