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Easy Cajun Shrimp & Cauliflower Rice - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (thawed if frozen)
  • Cajun seasoning: 1–1.5 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
  • Cauliflower rice: 4 cups (fresh riced cauliflower or frozen, thawed)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 2–3 tablespoons
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for richness)
  • Bell pepper: 1 medium, diced (any color)
  • Celery: 2 ribs, diced
  • Red onion: 1 small, diced (or 1/2 large)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, boosts smoky flavor)
  • Lemon: 1 (zest and juice)
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: 1/4 cup (or water)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions: For garnish
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne: Optional, for extra heat

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of oil. Set aside while you prep veggies.
  2. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil.
  3. Sear the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. Remove to a plate. Do not overcook.
  4. Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon oil and the butter. Stir in onion, bell pepper, and celery with a pinch of salt. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  5. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic and smoked paprika. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Cook the cauliflower rice: Add cauliflower rice and 1/4 cup broth. Season with 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring often, 5–7 minutes until tender but not mushy and most liquid is gone.
  7. Finish with shrimp: Return shrimp and any juices to the skillet. Zest in half the lemon and squeeze in 1–2 tablespoons juice. Toss over heat for 1 minute to warm through.
  8. Taste and adjust: Add more Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne if you want extra heat. If it needs richness, swirl in another teaspoon of butter.
  9. Garnish and serve: Top with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve with extra lemon wedges.