If you’re craving a meal that bursts with bold flavors while keeping things comforting and fresh, the Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly marries the spicy, smoky kick of Cajun-seasoned shrimp with the creamy smoothness of classic mashed potatoes and the crisp, slightly charred goodness of roasted broccolini. It feels indulgent yet balanced and is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is a breeze because each one plays a vital role in creating its unforgettable flavor and texture. From the succulent shrimp to the hearty potatoes and vibrant broccolini, these staples combine for an impressive and well-rounded meal.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, juicy and perfect for soaking up the Cajun spices.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for cooking the shrimp and roasting the broccolini, providing a lovely golden crisp.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: A spicy blend that gives the shrimp their signature Southern fire and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and depth to the shrimp seasoning mix.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory notes in both the shrimp and mashed potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the seasoning with a subtle, sweet onion flavor.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjustable heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple but crucial for enhancing all the other flavors.
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks: The creamy base that balances the spice with velvety texture.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Richness that makes the mashed potatoes irresistibly smooth.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious creaminess to the mash.
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed: Brings a fresh, green element with a bit of bite and visual appeal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used again to coat the broccolini before roasting for that perfect crisp-tender finish.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional): A bright finishing touch that livens up the roasted broccolini.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this is key for seasoning the potatoes from the inside out. Add your peeled and chunked russet potatoes and cook them until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Once done, drain and return them to the pot to start mashing. Stir in the butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, whipping it all together until creamy and smooth. Set this comforting base aside while you get the rest going.
Step 2: Roast the Broccolini
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and toss the trimmed broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet for even cooking. Roast for 15-20 minutes until the edges are just a little crispy and slightly charred, which brings out a fantastic natural sweetness alongside its fresh green crunch. For an optional pop of brightness, sprinkle lemon zest over the broccolini just before serving.
Step 3: Cook the Cajun Shrimp
In a medium bowl, coat your shrimp with olive oil and then generously toss with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix is where the magic happens, providing layers of smoky heat and savory goodness. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque—juicy on the inside with a flavorful crust outside.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Plate a generous scoop of the creamy mashed potatoes, top it lovingly with the sizzling Cajun shrimp, and add a side of roasted broccolini for color and texture contrast. This assembly showcases the harmonious interplay between creamy, spicy, and crisp elements that make this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe so irresistibly enjoyable.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges. These little additions brighten the plate and add a fresh aroma. Don’t wait too long—this dish is best enjoyed warm when all the flavors are at their peak.
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives create a lovely color contrast and add a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness. Lemon wedges can be squeezed just before eating to brighten each bite, lifting the bold Cajun spices beautifully without overwhelming the dish.
Side Dishes
If you want to add more variety, consider a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to soak up any leftover juices from the shrimp and potatoes. These additions keep the meal balanced and complement the hearty plate without competing for attention.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the shrimp atop a quenelle of mashed potatoes with the broccolini fanned out alongside for a restaurant-quality presentation at home. Or serve in shallow bowls with a drizzle of beurre blanc or a tangy remoulade sauce for extra flair. Presentation is all about showing off those vibrant colors and letting the rustic appeal shine through.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp, mashed potatoes, and broccolini separated if possible, so the textures hold up better when reheated.
Freezing
The mashed potatoes freeze well if you want to save some for later, but the shrimp and broccolini are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their best texture and flavor. If you do freeze mashed potatoes, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the mashed potatoes slowly in a saucepan or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Gently reheat the shrimp in a hot pan just until warmed through to avoid rubberiness. Reheat broccolini in the oven or stovetop to keep that slight crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This prevents excess moisture that might steam the shrimp instead of searing them properly.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the combination of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the cayenne to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether.
Can I substitute the broccolini?
Yes, if you can’t find broccolini, baby broccoli or even asparagus would work well. Just adjust the roasting time slightly to ensure they’re tender but still have a bit of bite.
Is there a dairy-free way to make the mashed potatoes?
Definitely! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to keep those mashed potatoes creamy and delicious without dairy.
What wine pairs well with this Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe?
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully, as they complement the shrimp’s spice and cut through the richness of the potatoes without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
Making the Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe is like inviting a party of flavors to your dinner plate, each bringing its own unique vibe but blending seamlessly in the end. It’s a dish that’s approachable, quick enough for busy nights, and impressive enough to share with friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll likely find yourself reaching for it again and again when you need that perfect mix of comfort and kick in a meal.
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Cajun Shrimp with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Broccolini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This flavorful Cajun Shrimp recipe pairs perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy mashed potatoes and tender, roasted broccolini. With a mix of bold spices and fresh ingredients, it’s a delicious and balanced meal ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
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, then add the peeled and chopped russet potatoes. Cook them until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes with butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside and keep warm.
- Roast the Broccolini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the trimmed broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Cook Broccolini: Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly charred on the edges. Optionally, sprinkle with lemon zest before serving for a fresh zing.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Assemble the Dish: Serve the cooked Cajun shrimp on top of a bed of creamy mashed potatoes alongside the roasted broccolini.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired, and enjoy your flavorful meal while hot.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level of the shrimp.
- If heavy cream is unavailable, whole milk can be used for a lighter mashed potato consistency.
- The lemon zest on the broccolini adds brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until opaque to avoid toughness.
- Leftover mashed potatoes can be reheated with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
