I really like this Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner because it gives me a full, flavorful meal with very little effort. I put everything together in one bowl, cook it quickly in the air fryer, and end up with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender-crisp vegetables. It’s colorful, satisfying, and perfect for nights when I want something homemade without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s fast, balanced, and full of bold Cajun flavor. I like that the shrimp cook quickly while the vegetables soften just enough without turning mushy. I also enjoy that it’s a one-basket meal, which means fewer dishes and an easier cleanup. It fits perfectly into my routine when I want something healthy, filling, and reliable.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
1 pound extra jumbo shrimp, peeled and cleaned
6 ounces fully cooked turkey or chicken Andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced
1 medium zucchini (about 8 ounces), sliced into 1/4-inch half moons
1 medium yellow squash (about 8 ounces), sliced into 1/4-inch half moons
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin 1-inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
I begin by placing the shrimp in a large bowl and tossing them with the Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. I then add the sliced sausage, zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper. I sprinkle in the salt, drizzle everything with olive oil, and toss again until all the ingredients are well mixed.
I preheat my air fryer to 400°F. I transfer half of the shrimp and vegetables to the air fryer basket, making sure they are spread out evenly. I cook them for about 8 minutes, shaking the basket two or three times so everything cooks evenly. I repeat this process with the remaining ingredients. Once both batches are done, I return the first batch to the air fryer and cook everything together for 1 additional minute.
Servings And Timing
I usually make this recipe to serve 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Each serving is about 1 1/2 cups, which I find to be a generous and satisfying portion.
Variations
I like changing the vegetables depending on what I have available. Broccoli florets, cauliflower, mushrooms, or eggplant all work well. When I want more heat, I add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning. If I want a lighter version, I sometimes reduce the sausage slightly and add more vegetables instead.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer using the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes so the shrimp stay firm and the vegetables don’t get soggy. I can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat if needed.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
I can cook everything in a large skillet over high heat, working in two batches and cooking each for about 5 to 8 minutes.
What type of shrimp works best?
I prefer extra jumbo shrimp because they stay juicy and are harder to overcook, but large shrimp work well too.
Is this recipe very spicy?
I find the spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning I use. I adjust the heat by choosing a mild blend or adding extra spice if I want more kick.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
I often buy shrimp frozen and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking, which works perfectly.
Is this good for meal prep?
I think this recipe is great for meal prep because it reheats well and keeps its flavor for a few days.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner is one of those meals I come back to again and again. I like how quick it is, how bold the flavors are, and how easy it is to customize. It proves that a healthy dinner can still be exciting, filling, and incredibly simple to make.
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner is a fast, one-basket meal packed with bold Cajun flavor, juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender vegetables. It’s colorful, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
1 pound extra jumbo shrimp, peeled and cleaned
6 ounces fully cooked turkey or chicken Andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced
1 medium zucchini (about 8 ounces), sliced into 1/4-inch half moons
1 medium yellow squash (about 8 ounces), sliced into 1/4-inch half moons
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin 1-inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Place shrimp in a large bowl and toss with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Add sausage, zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper to the bowl.
Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until everything is well coated.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
Transfer half of the mixture to the air fryer basket and spread evenly.
Cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket 2–3 times during cooking.
Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Return the first batch to the air fryer and cook everything together for 1 additional minute.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Use any firm vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or cauliflower in place of squash.
Add cayenne or hot sauce for more heat.
Reduce sausage and increase veggies for a lighter version.
Use thawed frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available.
