As the turkey takes center stage at your holiday table, why not shake things up with some spicy Cajun flair? The bold flavors and spices of Cajun cuisine are a perfect match for the traditional Thanksgiving feast. From the turkey itself to the side dishes and desserts, these 18 Spicy Cajun Recipes will add a kick of excitement to your gathering.
Whether you’re a native Louisianan or just looking to spice up your holiday menu, this collection has something for everyone. With recipes ranging from classic dishes like roasted turkey and green bean casserole to more adventurous options like shrimp and grits casserole and blackened catfish with remoulade sauce, there’s no shortage of flavor and fun.
Cajun Roasted Turkey with Andouille Sausage Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this bold and flavorful Cajun-inspired roasted turkey recipe, stuffed with a savory blend of andouille sausage, breadcrumbs, and herbs.
Ingredients:
For the turkey:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
For the stuffing:
– 1 pound andouille sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups stale French bread, torn into small pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Rub all over the turkey.
3. Stuff the turkey cavity with the andouille sausage mixture.
4. Roast the turkey for about 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: About 4-5 hours
Spicy Cajun Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your Thanksgiving turkey with this flavorful and spicy cornbread dressing, infused with the bold flavors of the Cajun region. This recipe combines crispy cornbread with sautéed vegetables, savory spices, and a kick of heat from hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), diced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, cooked vegetable mixture, chicken broth, melted butter, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stir in hot sauce and beaten eggs.
5. Pour the dressing into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blackened Cajun Green Bean Casserole
Elevate the classic green bean casserole with a bold and spicy kick! This recipe combines the crunch of blackened cajun-seasoned green beans with creamy french onion soup and crispy fried onions for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup french onion soup mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add green beans and cajun seasoning; blacken for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate bowl, combine french onion soup mix and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked green beans, soup mixture, and cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with crispy fried onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Butter Smoked Turkey Legs
Cajun Butter Smoked Turkey Legs Recipe
Elevate your smoked turkey legs with the bold flavors of Cajun butter! This recipe combines the richness of butter, the spice of Cajun seasoning, and the tender juiciness of slow-cooked turkey.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
3. Rub the butter mixture evenly onto all sides of the turkey legs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, leaving space between each leg for even cooking.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creole-Style Corn Maque Choux
A classic Louisiana side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Creole-Style Corn Maque Choux recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavors of onions, bell peppers, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, bell peppers, and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add corn kernels, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Gradually stir in flour to thicken mixture.
5. Transfer skillet contents to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Experience the bold flavors of Cajun country with this hearty shrimp and grits casserole, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine scallions, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer grits, shrimp mixture, and scallion cream sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Candied Sweet Potatoes
Add a kick of flavor to your holiday table with these sweet and spicy candied sweet potatoes. Inspired by the bold flavors of Louisiana, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the heat of cayenne pepper and the richness of brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sweet potato slices to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange sweet potatoes in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender, flipping halfway through.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bayou-Style Dirty Rice with Turkey Giblets
A hearty, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for the holidays or anytime you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup turkey giblets (gizzards and hearts), cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add turkey giblets; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, salt, and black pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Fried Oyster Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this spicy twist on traditional stuffing. This Cajun-inspired recipe combines the flavors of fried oysters, sausage, and herbs for a truly unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound oysters, shucked
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 pound andouille sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups stale white bread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the Cajun seasoning over medium-high heat.
3. Add the oysters and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the bread and toast until lightly browned.
5. Combine the toasted bread, cooked oysters, sausage, green onions, and cheese in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Crawfish Étouffée over Rice
This classic Louisiana dish is a flavorful and spicy one-pot wonder that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crawfish tails, fresh or frozen
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add crawfish, paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper; cook until crawfish turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
5. Serve étouffée over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Cajun Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your vegetable game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of cajun seasoning with the richness of crispy bacon. This dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon blackening spice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add Brussels sprouts, Cajun seasoning, blackening spice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Toss to coat.
4. Add butter to the skillet and toss until melted and sprouts are tender (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sprouts are caramelized and crispy.
6. Remove from oven, sprinkle with cooked bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Roasted Root Vegetables
Add a kick of spice to your roasted root vegetables with this Cajun-inspired recipe! This flavorful side dish is perfect for any meal, and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized root vegetables (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, and/or chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the root vegetables and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the vegetable pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Corn and Crab Bisque
This bold and creamy soup is a perfect blend of spicy Cajun flavors, sweet corn, and tender crab meat. Serve it as an appetizer or main course for a taste adventure.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in corn kernels, crab meat, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream, whole milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let bisque simmer for 10-12 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Creole-Style Red Beans and Rice with Smoked Turkey
This hearty dish is a staple of Creole cuisine, featuring rich red beans cooked low and slow with smoked turkey, aromatics, and spices. Serve over fluffy rice for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, smoked turkey, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add soaked red beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
4. Serve the bean mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours or overnight
Cajun Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots
Elevate your roasted carrots with a burst of spicy Cajun flavor! This simple recipe combines the sweetness of carrots with the savory goodness of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Old Bay)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together softened butter, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Remoulade Sauce
Savor the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic blackened catfish dish, served with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the spice mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add catfish and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with remoulade sauce and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun-Style Cornbread with Jalapeños
This cornbread recipe combines the classic Southern staple with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine, adding a spicy kick from jalapeños. Perfect for a dinner party or potluck, this flavorful bread is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and chopped jalapeños. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Pecan Pie with Bourbon Drizzle
Elevate your pecan pie game with a spicy twist! This recipe combines the classic nutty flavor with the bold heat of Cajun spice and a rich bourbon drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Stir in pecans, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Pour mixture into a pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
5. If desired, drizzle with bourbon whiskey before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your Thanksgiving feast with these 18 bold and flavorful Cajun recipes! From classic dishes like roasted turkey and green bean casserole, to innovative twists like Cajun shrimp and grits casserole and spicy candied sweet potatoes, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some heat to your holiday menu with blackened catfish, Creole crawfish étouffée over rice, or Cajun butter smoked turkey legs. Whether you’re a native Louisianan or just looking to shake up your Thanksgiving routine, these recipes are sure to bring the flavor and excitement to your table.
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