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A plate of perfectly cooked Cajun shrimp alongside a creamy sweet potato mash

Classic Cajun Shrimp with Sweet Potato Mash

This recipe features succulent Cajun-spiced shrimp paired with a creamy, naturally sweet potato mash, offering a comforting and flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 (about 1½ lb) large sweet potatoes, scrubbed, peeled, and cut into ½-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • ¼ cup whole milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more for the mash
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, sliced green onions, or a wedge of lemon Optional garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Boil salted water in a large pot, then add the sweet potato cubes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash with 1 tablespoon of butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  3. Combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and salt.
  4. Toss the shrimp with olive oil and the prepared spice mixture.
  5. Melt the remaining butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  7. Serve the Cajun shrimp immediately alongside the sweet potato mash, garnished as desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.