If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as easy as it is elegant, these Cajun Shrimp Crostinis are it! Crispy toasted baguette, creamy shrimp mousse, juicy Cajun-spiced shrimp, and refreshing cucumber ribbons come together for the ultimate bite-sized treat. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a cozy night in, they’ll disappear off the plate in minutes.

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The appetizer game just got an upgrade! Crispy baguette slices topped with creamy shrimp mousse, juicy Cajun-spiced shrimp, and refreshing cucumber ribbons – these Cajun Shrimp Crostinis are the definition of elevated yet easy appetizers. They look gourmet, taste bold and fresh, and the best part? They come together with just a handful of ingredients.

This recipe is one of those dishes that instantly feels party-ready. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night, hosting friends for cocktails, putting together a holiday appetizer board, or just treating yourself to something indulgent but quick, shrimp crostinis with Cajun seasoning deliver in both looks and flavor.

And let me tell you – I’ve made a lot of crostinis over the years (clearly, I have a whole café’s worth of toast ideas 😉), but this one is a total showstopper. The creamy shrimp mousse melts into the crispy baguette, the spiced shrimp adds a smoky punch, and the cucumber ribbons give that crisp, refreshing bite to balance it all out. So simple, yet so impressive.

Why You’ll Love Cajun Shrimp Crostinis

If you’re anything like me, you love appetizers that look fancy but don’t require hours in the kitchen. These crostinis tick all the boxes:

Elegant but approachable: They look restaurant-level, but the prep is super straightforward.
Bold flavor: Cajun spice brings that perfect smoky, garlicky, slightly peppery kick.
Texture play: Crisp crostini, creamy mousse, juicy shrimp, refreshing cucumber = the dream bite.
Versatile: Serve for holidays, game day spreads, summer parties, or date night appetizers.
Make-ahead friendly: The mousse can be prepped ahead, and you only need to assemble before serving.

Crostinis are always a hit, but when you bring shrimp crostinis with Cajun seasoning to the table, people immediately reach for them first. They’re that irresistible.

A hand holding one Cajun Shrimp Crostini topped with creamy shrimp mousse, a seasoned shrimp, cucumber ribbon, and fresh dill. Several more crostinis are arranged on a round wooden platter in the background.

What Is Cajun Shrimp?

If you’ve never cooked with Cajun seasoning before, you’re in for a treat. Cajun shrimp recipes are super popular because they’re bold, flavorful, and quick to make. Cajun spice blends usually include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. The mix brings a smoky, savory, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with seafood – especially shrimp.

When cooked in a hot skillet, the shrimp caramelize slightly with the Cajun seasoning, giving you a juicy, flavorful bite that tastes like it took much more work than it actually did. For these crostinis, we take it one step further by blending some of the shrimp with cream cheese and dill to make a mousse. The result? A luxurious spread that feels like a restaurant appetizer but is shockingly easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make Cajun Shrimp Crostinis at home:

Baguette: Thin slices of French baguette are perfect for crostinis – crispy outside, soft inside.
Shrimp: Large shrimp (about 16/20 count) work best. Fresh or frozen (and thawed) both work.
Cream cheese: The base for the mousse. Use full-fat for maximum creaminess.
Olive oil: Just a touch for sautéing the shrimp and brushing the baguette.
Cajun spice mix: Use store-bought or homemade. Adjust spice level to taste.
Lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors.
Cucumber: Thin ribbons add freshness and crunch.
Fresh dill: Gives the mousse a light, herby note and makes a gorgeous garnish.

Step-By-Step: How to Make Cajun Shrimp Crostinis

1. Toast the Crostinis

Slice your baguette into ½-inch pieces. Lay them on a baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 375°F until golden and crisp. This gives you that sturdy base that won’t get soggy under the mousse.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, and olive oil. Cook quickly in a hot skillet—about 1½ minutes per side. Don’t overcook; shrimp cook fast and you want them juicy, not rubbery.

3. Make the Shrimp Mousse

Set aside half the shrimp. Blend the rest with softened cream cheese and dill until smooth and creamy. Taste and add more Cajun spice if you want more heat.

A toasted baguette slice being topped with piped shrimp mousse from a pastry bag, showing a detailed close-up of the smooth, creamy mousse swirls on the crisp bread.

4. Assemble the Crostinis

Pipe or spread the mousse onto the toasted baguette slices. Top with a whole shrimp, add a cucumber ribbon, and finish with fresh dill.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Arrange on a platter or wooden board. They’re best served right away while the crostinis are crisp and the mousse is chilled.

Tips & Tricks for Success

Use softened cream cheese: It blends much smoother.
Don’t skip toasting the baguette: This keeps the crostinis from going soggy.
Adjust spice level: Cajun blends vary – taste yours and add accordingly.
Keep cucumber ribbons thin: A vegetable peeler or mandoline works best.
Make it ahead: The mousse can be made a day ahead; just store in the fridge.

Variations to Try

Spicy Cajun Shrimp Crostinis: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the mousse.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Crostinis: Swap Cajun spice for garlic butter and parsley.
Avocado Shrimp Crostinis: Add mashed avocado under the mousse for a fresh twist.
Holiday Shrimp Crostinis: Add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a festive look.

Serving Ideas

These shrimp crostinis are so versatile:

Party appetizers: Perfect for cocktail parties and game day spreads.
Holiday gatherings: Elegant enough for Christmas or New Year’s Eve appetizers.
Summer parties: Light and refreshing, especially with cucumber.
Date night: Make a half batch and pair with a crisp white wine or bubbly.

Wine & Drink Pairings

Pair these Cajun Shrimp Crostinis with:

Crisp Sauvignon Blanc (balances spice and richness)
Sparkling rosé (adds a festive vibe)
Cold beer (light lager or pilsner works great)
Sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make the mousse in advance?
Absolutely. It lasts up to 24 hours in the fridge. Assemble crostinis before serving.

Can I use another cheese instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone or Boursin cheese both work beautifully.

Are these crostinis spicy?
They have a mild kick, but you can adjust the Cajun seasoning to taste.

How do I keep crostinis from getting soggy?
Always toast the bread first and assemble just before serving.