Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
If you’re craving something that bursts with bold, smoky spice while melting into creamy, comforting goodness, then Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is exactly what you need on your dinner table. This dish combines tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp with a luscious, savory sauce, creating a flavorful twist on the classic stroganoff that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to spice up your pasta routine, Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is sure to become a fast favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor Explosion: The blackening spices add a fiery kick that elevates the shrimp beyond ordinary.
- Creamy Comfort: Rich sour cream and broth create a smooth, velvety sauce that wraps every bite in warmth.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Healthy Protein Boost: Shrimp brings lean protein and nutrients, making the dish both satisfying and nutritious.
- Impress Your Guests: This dish has a gourmet vibe but is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each one bringing a unique texture, flavor, or color to the dish. From fresh shrimp to fragrant spices, every component works together for that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory.
- Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Blackening Seasoning: A vibrant mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs that gives the shrimp its signature kick.
- Butter and Olive Oil: These fats help sear the shrimp and sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- Onions and Garlic: They add a savory depth and aromatic warmth to the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Bring umami and a meaty texture which pairs perfectly with shrimp.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Adds moisture and layers of flavor to the creamy sauce.
- Sour Cream: The heart of the stroganoff’s creamy texture with a slight tanginess.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme brighten up the dish with fresh notes and color.
- Egg Noodles or Pasta: Classic stroganoff calls for egg noodles, but you can also serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a twist.
Variations for Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
One of the best things about this Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff recipe is how easy it is to tailor to your dietary needs or your flavor cravings. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to make this dish truly yours.
- Swap Shrimp for Chicken: Use chicken breast or thighs for a hearty, non-seafood option.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy alternative without dairy.
- Mild Spice Option: Reduce cayenne and blackening spices for a gentler heat that still packs flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to increase vegetable content.
- Gluten-Free: Serve over gluten-free noodles or a bed of quinoa to keep it gluten-free without losing texture.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by tossing peeled and deveined shrimp in the blackening seasoning, ensuring each piece is well coated. Heat a skillet with butter and olive oil, then sear the shrimp on medium-high heat for about 2 minutes per side until they develop a deep, flavorful crust. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Toss in sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and become tender, creating the savory base for the stroganoff sauce.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the taste.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in sour cream gradually to prevent curdling, creating the dish’s signature creamy texture. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the blackened shrimp to the pan, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce without overcooking. Allow it to heat through for another minute or so, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Plate the Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff over freshly cooked egg noodles or your preferred base. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh finish and get ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw completely for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to achieve a perfect blackened sear.
- Temper the Sour Cream: Add it gradually to the hot broth off the heat to prevent it from curdling.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust cayenne and paprika according to your tolerance for heat without losing the blackened essence.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: Always add fresh parsley or thyme at the end to brighten the rich sauce.
How to Serve Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
Garnishes
A light dusting of freshly chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh herbal accent that complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness and keep the meal light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff in individual mini cast-iron skillets or over creamy mashed potatoes instead of noodles to wow your guests and add variety to the dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer leftover Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze as well as some because sour cream can separate, but you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately to preserve quality, then combine and reheat gently.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during refrigeration.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking to get the best blackened crust.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackening seasoning, making it suitable for all palates.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream, though the flavor and texture might change slightly.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles or serve the stroganoff over rice, quinoa, or even spiralized vegetables.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
From start to finish, Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff can be ready in about 25 to 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is a delightful and unexpected spin on a beloved classic that brings together fiery spices and creamy indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t wait to dive into this delicious, easy-to-make recipe that turns shrimp into a superstar on your dinner table.
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Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff
Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff is a bold and creamy twist on the classic stroganoff, featuring perfectly seasoned shrimp with smoky blackening spices and a luscious sour cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish offers a fiery flavor explosion balanced by rich, comforting creaminess, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive option for entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb fresh or thawed peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or herbs of choice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking Fats and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
Sauce and Finishing
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Serving
- Egg noodles, pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice, cooked as preferred
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Toss peeled and deveined shrimp in the blackening seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper) until evenly coated. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they develop a deep, flavorful crust. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and become tender, approximately 5 minutes, creating a savory base for the sauce.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet for enhanced flavor. Let the broth simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the taste.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower heat and gradually stir in sour cream to prevent curdling, forming a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the blackened shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to coat them evenly in the sauce without overcooking. Heat through for another minute.
- Serve It Up: Serve the Blackened Shrimp Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, pasta, rice, or your preferred base. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a bright, herbal finish.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor; if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing shrimp; cook in batches if needed to get a perfect blackened crust.
- Temper sour cream by adding gradually off heat to avoid curdling.
- Adjust cayenne and paprika to customize spice level without losing the signature blackened taste.
- Fresh herbs added at the end brighten the sauce and enhance flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg
Keywords: blackened shrimp, stroganoff, creamy shrimp recipe, spicy shrimp pasta, quick shrimp dinner, gluten free shrimp stroganoff
