These Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs are a fun twist on a classic snack! Creamy egg yolk filling mixed with tiny, tasty shrimp and a kick of Cajun spice makes them super special.
These little bites pack a punch of flavor! They always make me smile when I bring them to parties—everyone loves to grab one (or two)! Plus, they are so easy to make—just mix, fill, and serve!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for deviled eggs because they provide a good amount of filling. If you’re looking to lower cholesterol, use egg whites or egg substitutes. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit!
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo gives creaminess, but feel free to swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Vegan mayo is also an excellent substitute for a dairy-free option.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp adds a delicious bite. You could use cooked shrimp if you’re short on time. For a twist, try diced crab or even diced chicken seasoned similarly for variation.
Cajun seasoning: This is where the flavor comes alive! You can make your own mix with paprika, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Or, if it’s too spicy, use Italian seasoning for a milder taste.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs?
Getting hard-boiled eggs just right can be tricky! Make sure to follow these tips for success:
- Start with room temperature eggs for even cooking.
- Cook the eggs in boiling water, then cover and let sit off the heat for exactly 12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath immediately. This helps the shells come off smoothly.
With these steps, you’ll end up with perfectly hard-boiled eggs ready to be transformed into deviled perfection!
Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Eggs:
- 6 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking shrimp)
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 12 minutes for cooking the eggs. If you want to chill them before serving, plan for an extra 30 minutes. Total time is around 1 hour, but most of that is just waiting for the eggs to cool!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Eggs:
Start by placing the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan. Cover them with cold water, leaving about an inch above the eggs. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, cover the pan, take it off the heat, and let it sit for 12 minutes. After that, drain the water and cool the eggs by placing them in a bowl of ice water. Once chilled, peel the eggs.
2. Prepare the Filling:
Cut the cooled eggs in half lengthwise and gently remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a medium bowl and set the whites aside. Mash the yolks with a fork and mix in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until they are well coated. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and have a bit of a char. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Deviled Eggs:
Spoon or pipe the creamy yolk mixture into each egg white half. Place one Cajun-seasoned shrimp on top of each egg half. Sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika on top for extra flavor and color. Add some sliced chives or green onions, and chopped parsley, if you like.
5. Serve:
Place the deviled eggs on a platter and serve them right away, or you can chill them in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy. These tasty bites are perfect for appetizers or parties!
Enjoy your zesty Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs as a flavorful delight!
Can I Use Egg Whites Only for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, feel free to use only the egg whites. Just make sure to balance the flavors in the yolk mixture as you may miss some creaminess. You can add extra mayonnaise or a bit of Greek yogurt for a smoother texture.
What Can I Substitute for Shrimp?
If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with diced cooked chicken, crab meat, or even a veggie option like sautéed mushrooms. Just season those alternatives with Cajun spices to keep the flavor profile intact!
How Do I Store Leftover Deviled Eggs?
Store any leftover deviled eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent the egg whites from drying out, you can cover them with plastic wrap. Just be sure to eat them within that time for the best flavor!
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the yolk filling a day ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir before filling the egg whites to ensure it’s smooth and creamy.