Description
Cajun Shrimp Loaded Fries
Ingredients
For the Fries:
4 large potatoes (cut into fries)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cajun Shrimp:
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
For the Creamy Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Garnish:
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Fries:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss the potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Cook the Shrimp:
In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Loaded Fries:
Place the fries on a serving plate. Layer the cooked shrimp on top, then generously drizzle with the creamy sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing.
Enjoy!
This indulgent dish combines crispy fries, juicy Cajun shrimp, and a creamy, flavorful sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Potatoes: Wash and dry 4 large potatoes. Cut them into uniform 1/4-inch sticks for even cooking. Soak in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry with a towel.
2. Season and Bake: In a large bowl, toss the dry fries with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes, flip, then bake another 10-15 minutes until crispy.
3. Cook Shrimp: Pat 1 lb of shrimp dry. Toss with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until opaque. Remove immediately to prevent overcooking.
4. Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet (with shrimp drippings), lower heat to medium. Add 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Whisk in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and lemon juice until the cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.
5. Assemble Immediately: On a platter, layer hot fries, then shrimp. Drizzle generously with the warm creamy sauce and garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish immediately on a large platter for sharing. Accompany with lemon wedges for squeezing and extra chopped parsley. For a complete meal, pair with a simple, crisp green salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness. These loaded fries also make an impressive game-day appetizer or a fun, casual dinner.
How-to Summary
Cut and bake seasoned potato fries until golden and crisp. Sauté shrimp with Cajun seasoning in a hot skillet. In the same pan, create a creamy sauce with heavy cream, Parmesan, and spices. Assemble by layering fries, shrimp, and sauce, then garnish with parsley and lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fries or shrimp? Yes, for convenience. Use a 1 lb bag of frozen crispy fries and follow package instructions. For shrimp, thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat dry before seasoning to ensure proper searing.
How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning in both the shrimp and sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Serving with a side of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños also works well.
What’s a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce? For a lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free option, full-fat canned coconut milk is an excellent substitute that still provides richness.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can cut and soak the potatoes ahead, storing them in water in the fridge. The Cajun seasoning for the shrimp can also be mixed in advance. However, for best texture, cook and assemble just before serving.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat fries in an oven or air fryer to re-crisp. Gently reheat shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat to avoid separating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet with fries, as this steams them instead of crisping. Do not skip drying the shrimp before cooking; moisture prevents a good sear. When making the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer—boiling can cause the cream to separate or the cheese to become grainy. Finally, assemble the dish just before eating to prevent the fries from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp Loaded Fries are the ultimate fusion of comfort and bold flavor. This dish successfully combines crispy, seasoned potatoes, perfectly spiced shrimp, and a luxuriously creamy sauce for a truly satisfying experience. While it feels indulgent, the straightforward steps make it an achievable project for any home cook. Perfect for a special snack, party centerpiece, or a fun weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the guide, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-worthy creation from your own kitchen.