Sweet & Spicy Baked Honey Cajun Shrimp Recipe You’ll Want on Repeat

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner idea, this Baked Honey Cajun Shrimp recipe is about to become your new obsession. Sweet, spicy, and downright addictive, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!

Last weekend, I made this for my family, and let me tell you, the house smelled amazing while it baked. My kids couldn’t get enough, and my husband even asked if I could “double the sauce next time.” Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.

"Photo taken from a top-down angle, using all-natural lighting, on a light gray granite countertop. The baked honey Cajun shrimp are plated on a white serving dish, garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon slices. The shrimp have a caramelized, glossy finish, and a small bowl of extra sauce is placed on the side."

pizza oven cta 2025 ver2b Sweet & Spicy Baked Honey Cajun Shrimp Recipe You’ll Want on Repeat

Why This Dish is a Weeknight Hero

This dish combines the bold, smoky flavors of Cajun seasoning with the sticky sweetness of honey for a perfectly balanced bite. The shrimp cook quickly in the oven, absorbing the caramelized sauce as they bake. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s the ultimate no-fuss recipe that still feels special.

Your Grocery List

  • 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)

Secrets to Perfectly Baked Shrimp

One of the keys to this recipe is using large shrimp, as they stay juicy and tender while baking. Be sure to pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before tossing them with the seasoning to help the flavors stick. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup even easier!

Building Bold Flavor with the Sauce

The honey and Cajun spice mix is the star of this dish. Adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper. Want a deeper, caramelized flavor? Bake the shrimp closer to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning the honey. Don’t forget to spoon the extra sauce from the pan over the shrimp before serving—it’s liquid gold!

Make It Even Better

This shrimp is so versatile! Serve it over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a bed of fresh greens for a complete meal. For a little extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the shrimp for scallops or chunks of salmon.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent the shrimp from drying out.

Additional Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Nutrition Info: About 220 calories per serving

Fun Fact: Did you know shrimp are naturally low in calories but packed with protein? This recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Pairing Tips: Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Riesling or an iced tea with lemon. For dessert, a slice of key lime pie will perfectly balance the bold flavors of this dish.

A delicious slice of cheese pizzaPizza fresh from the ovenA mouthwatering pizza close-upAnother irresistible slice of pizza
"Photo taken from a top-down angle, using all-natural lighting, on a light gray granite countertop. The baked honey Cajun shrimp are plated on a white serving dish, garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon slices. The shrimp have a caramelized, glossy finish, and a small bowl of extra sauce is placed on the side."

Baked Honey Cajun Shrimp

Sweet, spicy, and perfectly baked, this Honey Cajun Shrimp recipe is a flavorful, easy dinner that comes together in minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small saucepan (optional for sauce thickening)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large raw shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 lemon sliced, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well mixed.
  • Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated in the marinade.
  • Spread the shrimp out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
  • Optional: For a more caramelized finish, broil the shrimp for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days and reheated gently.
Keyword Cajun, Easy Dinner, Shrimp
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