Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The Cajun seasoning adds a bold kick of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alabama white sauce.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable heat levels to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for grilling enthusiasts, but it can also be baked for an indoor-friendly option.
- Pairs well with a variety of sides like rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Alabama White Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink, opaque, and slightly charred.
- Make the Alabama White Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Serve: Plate the grilled shrimp and drizzle with Alabama white sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
Variations
- Spicier Version: Increase the Cajun seasoning or hot sauce in the recipe.
- Baked Shrimp: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Different Protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken tenders, scallops, or even tofu for a twist.
- Lighter Sauce: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier Alabama white sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Serve cold or gently warmed Alabama white sauce alongside.
FAQs
What is Alabama White Sauce?
Alabama white sauce is a tangy, mayonnaise-based barbecue sauce popular in the southern United States, often served with grilled or smoked meats.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely before marinating to ensure even cooking.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a “C” shape.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the Alabama white sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme.
Can I grill the shrimp on skewers?
Yes, threading shrimp onto skewers makes grilling easier and ensures even cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use a different cooking method for the shrimp?
Yes, the shrimp can be sautéed in a skillet, baked, or even air-fried.
How long will the sauce last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the sauce will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Cajun Grilled Shrimp with Alabama White Sauce is a perfect combination of bold flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. Customize the spice level to your liking and pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Enjoy the flavors of the South with this easy and delicious recipe!
Cajun Grilled Shrimp with Alabama White Sauce
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cajun Grilled Shrimp with Alabama White Sauce recipe is a bold and flavorful dish combining smoky, spiced shrimp with a creamy, tangy white sauce. Perfect for grilling enthusiasts, it’s an easy and versatile recipe that works for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Alabama White Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. - Grill the Shrimp:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and slightly charred. - Make the Alabama White Sauce:
Combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth. - Serve:
Arrange shrimp on a plate, drizzle with sauce, or serve sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your desired spice level.
- Alabama white sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
- For an indoor-friendly option, bake shrimp in the oven or sauté in a skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southern, American