Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs are a fun twist on a classic! These creamy, zesty eggs are filled with a mix of shrimp, spices, and a touch of mayo, giving you a taste of the South in every bite.
These little bites always steal the show at parties! I like to sprinkle them with paprika for that extra kick. They’re easy to make and a real crowd-pleaser—trust me, they’ll disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are best for a perfectly sized deviled egg. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using chickpea flour mixed with water as an egg replacement!
Shrimp: Medium shrimp add great flavor! For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu instead. Both can give a nice texture!
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend adds that Louisiana kick! If you don’t have it, try a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano for a homemade version.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo is used for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, consider Greek yogurt or even avocado for a healthier twist.
Dijon Mustard: Adds tang. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, yellow mustard works well too.
How Do You Perfectly Boil and Peel Eggs?
Boiling eggs can be tricky! Here are simple steps to get perfectly hard-boiled eggs that peel easily:
- Start with eggs at room temperature; this helps prevent cracking.
- Cover eggs with about an inch of water and bring to a boil. When boiling, cover and remove from heat for 12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5-10 minutes. This stops the cooking and makes peeling easier.
- To peel, gently tap the egg on the counter and roll it to loosen the shell. Under running water can help remove any stubborn bits!
These tips will ensure your eggs turn out perfectly for those delicious deviled eggs!
Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Deviled Eggs:
- 6 large eggs
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking shrimp)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 12 minutes cooking the eggs, 5-10 minutes preparing the shrimp, and about 10 minutes to mix the filling and assemble the eggs. It’s a pretty quick and easy appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Make sure to cover them with water by about 1 inch. Bring that water to a boil over medium heat. Once it’s boiling, take the saucepan off the heat. Cover it with a lid and let the eggs sit for 12 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to an ice bath to cool completely. This quick cooling will make peeling much easier!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the eggs are chilling, toss the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning in a bowl. In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are completely opaque and cooked through. Once they’re ready, remove them from the heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Egg Filling:
Once the eggs are cool, peel them carefully and slice them in half lengthwise. Gently remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re crumbly and smooth.
4. Make the Deviled Egg Mixture:
Now, take that bowl of mashed yolks and mix in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, the remaining Cajun seasoning, chopped green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is smooth and blended to your desired creaminess.
5. Assemble the Deviled Eggs:
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each egg white half evenly with the yolk mixture, shaping it nicely.
6. Top with Shrimp:
Now for the fun part! Place one cooked Cajun shrimp on top of each filled egg half, ensuring they look lovely and inviting!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle a little smoked paprika and some additional chopped green onions over the top for an extra pop of color. Serve these delightful deviled eggs immediately, and enjoy every bite!
These Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs are a perfect appetizer at any gathering—chill them or serve at room temperature, and they’ll be a hit!
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the egg yolk mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to fill the egg whites right before serving to keep them fresh!
How Should I Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from drying out, you can cover the eggs with plastic wrap or damp paper towels.
Can I Use Different Shrimp Sizes?
Yes, you can! If you have large shrimp on hand, just cut them in half or quarter them if needed. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check for doneness.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute! You can also use avocado for a creamy texture or vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
