Cooking shrimp can seem intimidating but it doesn’t have to be with the right tools and techniques. A cast iron skillet is the perfect vessel for cooking shrimp to tender, juicy perfection. The even heat distribution of cast iron allows the shrimp to cook evenly without burning or overcooking.
In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook shrimp like a pro in your trusty cast iron skillet, from buying and preparing the shrimp to cooking techniques and seasoning. Read on for tips, step-by-step instructions, and mouthwatering recipe inspiration.
Benefits of Cooking Shrimp in Cast Iron
Cast iron skillets have been treasured kitchen tools for generations and for good reason. Here are some of the biggest benefits of using cast iron to cook shrimp
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Even heating Cast iron heats gradually and evenly preventing hot spots that lead to uneven cooking. Shrimp will cook through gently and thoroughly.
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Searing and caramelization: The even, high heat of cast iron is perfect for getting a nice sear on shrimp. This adds tons of flavor from the Maillard reaction.
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Heat retention: Once cast iron is hot, it stays hot. This allows you to cook shrimp thoroughly without losing too much heat when you add the shrimp to the pan.
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Versatile: A cast iron skillet can be used for a wide range of cooking techniques like pan-searing, sautéing, pan-frying, or baking.
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Adds iron: Some iron from the pan leaches into acidic foods like shrimp. This adds a micro-dose of dietary iron.
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Nonstick: Well-seasoned cast iron develops a natural nonstick patina. Foods release easily when cooked properly.
With all of these advantages, it’s easy to see why cast iron is ideal for cooking moist, flavorful shrimp.
Step-By-Step Guide to Cooking Shrimp in Cast Iron
Follow this simple step-by-step guide for foolproof shrimp every time you break out your cast iron skillet.
1. Choose Fresh Shrimp
High quality shrimp is key. Look for shrimp that smells fresh and mildly briny, not fishy. Their shells should be firm and shiny, not slimy. Peeled shrimp saves lots of time, but you can peel them yourself if needed. Rinse well.
2. Prepare Your Skillet
If cooking shrimp straight from the fridge, be sure to give your cast iron skillet time to preheat gradually so it’s piping hot. Over high heat, preheat for 4-5 minutes. Add a tablespoon of fat like oil or butter. It should shimmer when hot enough.
3. Pat Shrimp Dry
Damp shrimp will steam instead of sear. Gently pat raw shrimp with paper towels until very dry all over. This helps them get crispy brown edges in the skillet.
4. Season the Shrimp
Shrimp need just a bit of seasoning, as they have a naturally sweet flavor. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, lemon zest, or cajun seasoning all taste great.
5. Sear the Shrimp
Carefully add shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Let sear undisturbed until the edges turn pink and brown. Then flip and cook just until opaque in center. Be careful not to overcook.
6. Finish with Flavorings
Turn off heat and add any extra flavorings: garlic, herbs, citrus juice, compound butter, etc. Toss to coat shrimp before serving. That’s it!
Handy Tips for Cooking Shrimp in Cast Iron
Follow these tips and tricks for extra shrimp cooking success:
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Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook shrimp in batches if needed to properly sear.
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Flip shrimp gently with tongs or a spatula to avoid damage.
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Use a separate spoon for basting hot butter over shrimp as they cook.
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Cook shrimp in shells for more flavor, then peel after cooking.
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Time cooking based on size. Large shrimp needs more time than smaller shrimp.
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Take shrimp off heat just before opaque in very center. It will finish cooking off heat.
Delicious Cast Iron Shrimp Recipes
Ready to put your cast iron skillet to work cooking some flavorful shrimp dishes? Try out these tasty recipes:
Lemony Garlic Shrimp
Sauté peeled shrimp in olive oil over high heat until browned. Add garlic, lemon zest, juice, and butter. Toss until shrimp is opaque. Finish with chopped parsley.
Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Dry shrimp well and toss with Cajun seasoning. Sear in a very hot cast iron skillet with oil until blackened in spots. Mix in diced tomatoes and green onions.
Crispy Coconut Shrimp
Toss butterflied shrimp in coconut milk and dredge in toasted shredded coconut. Fry in hot oil in cast iron skillet until golden brown.
Skillet Shrimp Boil
Sauté Trinity aromatics, potatoes, corn, andouille sausage until browned. Add shrimp, Old Bay, lemon, and broth. Simmer until shrimp is cooked.
Shrimp and Sausage Paella
Sear shrimp and chorizo sausage in oil. Add rice, saffron, tomatoes, and broth. Once rice is tender, mix in peas.
Garlic Shrimp Quinoa
Heat oil in a cast iron skillet. Sauté garlic and shrimp. Add cooked quinoa, spinach, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until heated through.
Cast Iron Shrimp FAQs
Still have questions about cooking shrimp in cast iron? Here are some common questions answered:
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp turns opaque throughout when fully cooked. Larger shrimp may have just a translucent stripe in center when done.
Should I cook shrimp from frozen?
Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or in cold water first. Cooking directly from frozen can lead to uneven cooking.
What is the best oil for cooking shrimp?
Try a high smoke point neutral oil like avocado, grapeseed, or light olive oil. Butter can burn quickly.
How long does shrimp last in the fridge?
Fresh shrimp lasts just 2-3 days in the fridge. Use immediately or freeze upon purchase for longer storage.
Is frozen or fresh shrimp better?
Frozen shrimp is often flash frozen right on the boat, so it can be very fresh. Pick high quality frozen or fresh.
The Takeaway
Cooking tender, flavorful shrimp is simple with the right techniques and a trusty preheated cast iron skillet. Be sure shrimp are fresh, dry them well, don’t overcook, and finish with flavorful sauces. In no time, you’ll be serving restaurant-worthy shrimp entrées. Give these recipes a try and enjoy the benefits of cooking shrimp in cast iron. Your tastebuds will thank you. Just be prepared for requests for second helpings!
The Perfect Recipe for Cooking Shrimp in a Cast Iron Skillet
If you love seafood and want to know how to cook shrimp in a cast iron skillet, this blog post is the place to be. It has a simple but delicious recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Cast iron skillets are great for cooking shrimp because they spread the heat out evenly and give the shrimp a great sear.
- 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- It’s important to season your cast iron skillet well before you start cooking. Using oil to season the pan helps make the surface naturally non-stick.
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to cover the bottom of the pan evenly once it’s hot.
- Put the minced garlic in the pan and cook it for about one minute, until it smells good and turns a little golden.
- Put the shrimp in the pan in a single layer, being careful not to crowd them. This is the most important part of the dish. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
- The shrimp should be cooked for two to three minutes on each side until they turn pink and get a nice sear. Flip them once halfway through, ensuring even cooking.
- Take the pan off the heat once the shrimp is done cooking. Give the shrimp a light toss after squeezing the lemon juice over them. This will coat them in the sour taste.
- Add some chopped fresh parsley on top for a splash of color and freshness.
- Now it’s time to serve your tasty shrimp cooked in a cast iron skillet.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For extra flavor, chop up some onions or bell peppers. You can also try out different spices and herbs to make your own signature dish. You can eat the shrimp with rice or pasta, or you can add them to a tasty seafood salad.
It’s important to keep an eye on the cooking time when cooking shrimp in a cast iron skillet so they don’t get too done. Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can result in a rubbery texture. Remember, a perfectly cooked shrimp should be firm, slightly translucent, and have a delicate sweetness.
You can show off your cooking skills to your family and friends now that you know this easy but delicious recipe. Cooking shrimp in a cast iron skillet is a surefire way to make a memorable and delicious dish, whether it’s for a quick weeknight meal or a special event.
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