Name: Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter; 1.5 pounds asparagus, rinsed and trimmed; 1/4 cup vegetable stock; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; lemon slices, for garnish; red chili pepper flakes, for garnish; fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that bursts with flavor, is quick to make, and looks like something straight from your favorite restaurant, you’re in for a treat. This Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet is bold, buttery, and brimming with vibrant color and taste. Picture juicy shrimp, seasoned with a smoky blackened spice mix, nestled alongside crisp-tender asparagus—this dish is as easy on the eyes as it is on your palate. Fun fact: blackening is a traditional Cajun cooking method that creates an irresistible crust and depth on seafood, and it’s way simpler to master than you might think! Best of all? This skillet dinner can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families and weeknight warriors alike. If you loved my Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe, you’ll delight in the bright, zesty notes here—give both a try and you’ll have dinner covered all week long. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure!

What is Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet?

Have you ever wondered what exactly makes a dish “blackened”? It’s not a kitchen mishap—it’s a delicious technique! Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet gets its name from the way shrimp are coated in robust spices and seared in a hot pan until they develop a crave-worthy, smoky crust. The result? Each bite is bold, zesty, and just a little bit sassy—just like the best dinner parties! Asparagus joins the fun, soaking up the flavor and adding a bright crunch. Remember, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—so why not make it blackened? This recipe is like a flavor party on your plate. Give it a try and see why blackened really means best!

Why You’ll Love This

There’s so much to adore about this Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet. First, let’s talk about the highlight: big, succulent shrimp with that unforgettable spicy crust. The magic of blackening means every bite bursts with flavor, complemented perfectly by tender asparagus and a splash of zesty lemon. Making this dish at home saves you serious money—think restaurant-quality flavor without the takeout price! Plus, you get to control the heat and customize to your taste. The finishing touches of fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes make each plate pop, both in freshness and appearance. If you’ve already tried my Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll love this seafood spin! Don’t wait—grab your skillet and make tonight’s dinner something truly special.

Skillet filled with blackened shrimp and asparagus garnished with lemon slices and parsley

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is proof that you don’t need a pile of dishes or hours in the kitchen for a satisfying, restaurant-worthy meal. Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet is ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish. The secret lies in a one-pan method: season the shrimp and asparagus, cook everything in stages for perfect texture, and then finish with a drizzle of lemon and fresh herbs. There’s no complicated sauces or lengthy prep, just simple, bold ingredients for maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
1.5 pounds asparagus, rinsed and trimmed
1/4 cup vegetable stock
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon slices, for garnish
Red chili pepper flakes, for garnish
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step

Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning; this ensures they get beautifully crisp when cooked. In a medium bowl, combine the chili powder, paprika, onion powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in this bold spice mix until they’re well coated.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the spice-coated shrimp in a single layer. Cook on each side for about 2-3 minutes until they’re blackened and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil (or butter if you want extra richness). Add the trimmed asparagus and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until asparagus starts to soften but is still bright green and crisp.
Pour in the vegetable stock and (if using) hot sauce; this will help lift up any flavorful browned bits from the pan and steam the asparagus to perfect tenderness. Allow to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, uncovered.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss with the asparagus. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top, and give everything a final toss to coat in the delicious juices.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, lemon slices, and a sprinkle of red chili pepper flakes for a little extra heat.

What to Serve Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet With

This recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or simple quinoa to soak up all those savory juices. Garlic parmesan mashed potatoes add a comforting touch, while a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the bold blackened spices. For drinks, a cold glass of sauvignon blanc or a pitcher of sparkling lemonade makes an uplifting pairing. For a heartier feast, add a slice of crusty bread and finish with a light dessert like sorbet or fruit salad.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Make sure your pan is hot before adding the shrimp—that’s how you get that classic blackened crust.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook shrimp in batches if necessary so each piece gets perfectly seared.
Adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s taste by reducing (or increasing) the chili powder or hot sauce.
For a protein boost, mix in cooked andouille sausage or diced chicken alongside the shrimp.
Avoid overcooking: shrimp cook quickly, and asparagus should still have a bit of snap for the best results.
Substitute green beans or zucchini for asparagus as a fun twist.
Fresh lemon juice right before serving wakes up all the flavors—don’t skip it!
If you don’t have vegetable stock, try chicken stock or even a splash of white wine.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until just heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep everything moist. Shrimp can become rubbery if microwaved too long, so use gentle heat. While asparagus is best fresh, you can freeze the entire dish for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the skillet for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

What does “blackened” mean in cooking?
Blackened refers to a cooking technique using a mix of bold spices and high heat to create a flavorful, dark crust on proteins like shrimp or chicken.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a little kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by using less chili powder or skipping the red chili flakes and hot sauce.

Can I use a different vegetable besides asparagus?
Definitely. Green beans, broccoli florets, or zucchini all work beautifully in this skillet.

How can I make this dairy-free?
Stick to olive oil instead of butter for a fully dairy-free version of the dish.

Conclusion

Blackened Shrimp and Asparagus Skillet is a flavor-forward, lightning-fast dinner that’s sure to become a new staple in your kitchen. With its bold Cajun-inspired spices, juicy shrimp, and crisp asparagus, it strikes the perfect balance between nourishment and indulgence—all in just one pan. Whether you’re looking for an impressive meal for guests or a family-friendly weeknight favorite, this recipe delivers every time. Pair it with your favorite sides and personalize the heat level to suit your taste. Give it a try, and discover why simple skillet recipes like this are reader favorites. Happy cooking!