Deviled Eggs with Cajun Shrimp

Step-by-step instructions

Cut each egg in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a medium bowl and set the egg whites on a serving platter.
Mash the yolks with a fork until finely crumbled. Add the mayonnaise, relish, mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended.
With a small spoon, scoop an equal amount of the yolk mixture into each egg white half. Lightly sprinkle smoked paprika on top.
Cover the deviled eggs and refrigerate while preparing the shrimp.
Rinse the shrimp briefly in a colander and drain them well. Pat them dry with a paper towel and transfer them to a bowl.
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and toss until coated evenly.
In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 45 seconds.
Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 45 to 60 seconds, or until they’re fully pink and cooked through. Remove from the heat.
When ready to serve, place one cooked shrimp on top of each deviled egg.

Best ways to enjoy it

Plating your Deviled Eggs with Cajun Shrimp can elevate the dish even further. Consider arranging them on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a splash of color. Pair them with a light salad, crusty bread, or a zesty dipping sauce for additional layers of flavor. These deviled eggs are best served chilled, making them a refreshing appetizer that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

How to store

If you have leftover deviled eggs, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. For optimal taste, enjoy leftovers within 2 days. Avoid freezing the deviled eggs, as the texture may change after thawing. Always practice safe food handling by refrigerating any leftover seafood promptly.

Helpful cooking tips

Perfectly Boiled Eggs: For easy peeling, use older eggs rather than fresh ones. After boiling, place them in an ice bath to shock them and make peeling easier.
Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp while cooking. They cook quickly and can turn rubbery if overcooked. They should be bright pink and opaque when done.
Add Extra Spices: For an extra kick, consider adding hot sauce to the yolk mixture or serving alongside a spicy aioli dip.

Creative twists

Consider varying the recipe by adding toppings like diced avocado, crumbled bacon, or even a dollop of spicy aioli on top of the shrimp. For a different flavor profile, try using different seasonings like taco seasoning for a Mexican spin or lemon zest for a refreshing twist. If you’re serving a crowd with varied dietary needs, you could also make a batch with crab or lobster for a luxurious treat.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare the deviled eggs?

The total prep time for this dish is roughly 30-40 minutes, including the time it takes to boil the eggs and cook the shrimp.

Can I use different seafood for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute shrimp with crab or even diced smoked salmon. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the seafood you choose.

What’s the best way to ensure my deviled eggs are creamy?

Using a combination of mayonnaise and sweet relish adds creaminess and flavor. Make sure to mix until smooth and allow them to chill before serving for the best flavor.