One warm evening, Sunny was scrolling through Pinterest looking for an appetizer that felt fun, fresh, and a little fancy without being complicated. She didn’t want another baked dip or something heavy. She wanted color, spice, and something that could be eaten in just a few bites. That’s when a Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe caught her attention. Juicy shrimp, creamy guacamole, and bold Cajun seasoning layered together looked irresistible. Inspired by the version from Dinner Mom, this recipe felt like the kind of appetizer that disappears fast at gatherings. Sunny liked that it didn’t require baking or long prep. For someone who enjoys trying recipes she finds online and learning as she goes, this Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe felt exciting, manageable, and perfect for sharing.
These shrimp cups work beautifully for parties, game days, summer gatherings, or anytime you want an appetizer that feels fresh and flavorful.
Table of Contents
Why Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Are So Popular
What Makes Cajun Shrimp and Guacamole a Perfect Match
Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups stand out because they balance bold spice with creamy freshness. Cajun seasoning brings heat and smoky depth to the shrimp. Guacamole cools everything down with avocado, lime, and subtle seasoning.
This contrast creates balance in every bite. The shrimp tastes savory and slightly spicy. The guacamole tastes smooth and bright. Together, they feel indulgent without being heavy, which makes these cups easy to enjoy more than once.
Why This Recipe Works for Entertaining
This Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe works so well for entertaining because it’s pre-portioned. Each cup holds the right amount of shrimp and guacamole. There’s no double-dipping or messy serving.
The recipe also comes together quickly. You cook the shrimp fast and assemble just before serving. That speed and presentation make it ideal for hosts who want big impact with minimal stress.
Ingredients and Measurements
Ingredient List With Clear Measurements
This Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe uses fresh ingredients and simple seasoning.
Ingredient Table:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cajun seasoning | 1½ teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Avocados, ripe | 3 large |
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Red onion, finely diced | ¼ cup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Mini cups or lettuce cups | 12–16 |
These measurements create bold shrimp flavor and creamy guacamole without overpowering either layer.
Why Each Ingredient Matters
Shrimp forms the protein base of this Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe. Cajun seasoning adds spice and depth quickly. Olive oil helps the shrimp cook evenly and stay juicy.
Avocados create the creamy foundation of the cups. Lime juice brightens flavor and prevents browning. Red onion adds bite. Cilantro adds freshness. Salt and pepper balance the guacamole so it complements the shrimp instead of competing with it.
How to Make Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Step by Step
Cooking the Cajun Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder until evenly coated.
Add shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking so the shrimp stay tender. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Preparing the Guacamole and Assembling
In a bowl, mash avocados until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky. Stir in lime juice, red onion, cilantro, salt, and black pepper until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Spoon guacamole into mini serving cups or lettuce cups. Top each with 2–3 Cajun shrimp. Assemble just before serving for best texture and color.
Serving Ideas, Storage, and Variations
How to Serve Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups
Serve this Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe chilled or at room temperature. Arrange cups on a platter for easy grabbing.
These cups pair well with chips, fresh vegetables, or other light appetizers. Because they’re bite-sized, they work well as both starters and party snacks.
Easy Ways to Change the Recipe
You can adjust this Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe easily. Use taco seasoning instead of Cajun for milder flavor. Add diced tomatoes to the guacamole for texture. Drizzle with a little hot sauce or crema for extra flair.
You can also serve the mixture as a dip with tortilla chips if you don’t want individual cups.
FAQs
Can I make Cajun shrimp ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the shrimp up to one day ahead and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
How do I keep guacamole from browning?
Use fresh lime juice and cover tightly with plastic wrap touching the surface.
Are these shrimp cups spicy?
They taste mildly spicy. Adjust Cajun seasoning to control heat.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
This Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe proves that appetizers can feel bold, fresh, and elegant without complicated steps. It combines quick-cooked shrimp with creamy guacamole for a balanced bite that feels exciting and satisfying. That’s why it caught Sunny’s attention during a casual scroll and why it fits real-life entertaining so well. With bright flavor, easy prep, and eye-catching presentation, these shrimp cups earn a spot at any gathering.
Cajun Guacamole Shrimp Cups Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 ripe avocados
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 –16 mini cups or lettuce cups
Instructions
- Season and cook shrimp in skillet. Mash avocados with lime juice, onion, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Spoon guacamole into cups and top with shrimp. Serve immediately.