Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs are a fun twist on a classic favorite. These little bites pack a punch with creamy deviled egg filling topped with spicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp. The Cajun spices bring a bit of heat and a lot of flavor, making them a perfect appetizer for any gathering or just a tasty snack.
I love making these when I want something a little different but still easy to prepare. The combination of smooth egg yolk filling and crispy shrimp is something that always surprises and delights guests. I usually sprinkle a touch of extra paprika on top for a pop of color and a little extra kick.
These deviled eggs are great served chilled right from the fridge, especially on a sunny afternoon with friends. They’re such a crowd-pleaser that I find myself making extra because they disappear fast! If you like a bit of spice and seafood, I think you’ll enjoy this recipe as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Eggs: Large eggs work best to hold the filling well. Fresh eggs peel easier if cooled in ice water after boiling.
Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for quick cooking. If unavailable, small cooked shrimp or even crab meat can be tasty substitutes.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds the signature spicy, smoky kick. If you prefer less heat, use a mild seasoning blend or reduce the amount.
Mayonnaise & Dijon Mustard: Mayonnaise keeps the filling creamy and Dijon adds tang. Greek yogurt or avocado can replace mayo for a lighter version.
Lemon Juice & Green Onions: These brighten the flavors. If you don’t have green onions, finely diced chives or mild red onion work well.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly for Deviled Eggs?
Shrimp need quick cooking to stay tender. Here’s a simple way:
- Heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Toss shrimp with half the Cajun seasoning.
- Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
Tip: Shrimp cook fast, so watch closely to keep them juicy. Letting them cool before adding on top keeps deviled eggs neat and tasty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – I like using a saucepan to boil the eggs evenly and keep cleanup simple.
- Ice water bowl – It helps cool the eggs quickly, making peeling easier.
- Sharp knife or egg slicer – For cleanly slicing the eggs in half.
- Mixing bowl – To mash yolks and blend ingredients seamlessly.
- Small skillet – Perfect for cooking the shrimp quickly and evenly.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – To handle the shrimp carefully when cooking and topping.
- Piping bag or spoon – For neatly filling the egg whites with the mixture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for diced cooked crab or smoked salmon for different flavors and textures.
- Use cream cheese instead of mayonnaise for a richer, creamier filling.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to taste if you like more spice.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of dill for a fresh twist.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 10-12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for shrimp)
- Paprika (for garnish)
- Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, plus 15 minutes chilling time. The eggs need 10-12 minutes to cook and cool, then the shrimp cook quickly in about 5-6 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors blend, making these deviled eggs taste even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Eggs:
Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover them with water by about an inch. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes.
2. Cooling and Peeling the Eggs:
Drain the hot water and put the eggs into a bowl of ice water. Let them cool for about 5 minutes to make peeling easier. Peel each egg carefully, then slice them lengthwise in half. Gently remove the yolks and put them in a mixing bowl. Place the egg whites on a serving platter and set aside.
3. Preparing and Cooking the Shrimp:
In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with half of the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from heat and let them cool slightly.
4. Making the Deviled Egg Filling:
Mash the egg yolks with a fork until smooth. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped green onions, the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until creamy and well combined.
5. Assembling the Deviled Eggs:
Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each egg white half with the yolk mixture. Place one cooked Cajun shrimp on top of each filled egg.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Sprinkle a little paprika over the eggs for color. Add some extra chopped green onions and a small sprig of fresh dill to each egg for a fresh finishing touch. Chill the deviled eggs in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend. Serve cold and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
How Long Can I Store Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp tastes best fresh, so try to enjoy them within that time for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I Make These Deviled Eggs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the deviled eggs a few hours before serving, then keep them chilled. Wait to add the shrimp topping until shortly before serving to keep them tender and fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs like oregano and thyme to create a similar flavor. Adjust the spice level to your taste!