There’s something incredibly comforting about the sizzle of shrimp meeting a hot pan, especially when they’re coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce. As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma wafting through the air transported me to the lively streets of New Orleans, where BBQ shrimp is revered as a culinary treasure. One evening, with nothing but a few pantry staples on hand, I decided to whip up this delectable dish, and I was immediately captivated by its bold flavors and simple preparation.
This New Orleans BBQ Shrimp recipe is a game-changer for anyone weary of the fast-food routine. It’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that dazzles the senses—plump shrimp coated in a spicy, garlicky sauce that begs to be mopped up with crusty French bread. Join me on this flavorful journey that promises to ignite your passion for homemade meals!
Why is New Orleans BBQ Shrimp a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This dish marries the vibrant spices of New Orleans with succulent shrimp for an explosion of taste.
Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in 30 minutes or less, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends, transforming any meal into a festive occasion.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, paired beautifully with crusty bread or over rice.
Comfort Food Classic: With every bite, you’ll indulge in the warm, soulful flavors that make comfort food truly satisfying.
Ready to explore more delicious seafood options? Check out my other easy seafood recipes!
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Ingredients
Unleash the flavor of New Orleans with these simple ingredients for BBQ shrimp that will transport your taste buds!
For the Sauce
- Butter – Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- Garlic – Freshly chopped for a fragrant burst of flavor.
- Hot Sauce – Spice it up to your liking; this is essential for authentic BBQ shrimp.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Contributes depth and umami to the mix.
- Beer, Wine or Broth – Choose your favorite; it adds a lovely base note to the sauce.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors beautifully; aim for about half a lemon.
- Creole Seasoning – A fragrant spice blend that captures the essence of New Orleans.
- Ground Black Pepper – Provides a touch of heat that complements the shrimp.
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for a quick cook and easy eating.
- Chilled Butter – Stir in at the end for a luscious finish; cut into small pieces for easy melting.
- Salt – A few pinches to taste; adjust as needed to enhance the overall flavor.
Now you have everything you need to create this mouth-watering New Orleans BBQ Shrimp! Get ready to savor each bite!
How to Make New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
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Melt Butter: Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Once melted, add 3 cloves of chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Combine Sauces: Pour in 1/4 cup of hot sauce, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, and 1/3 cup of your choice of beer, wine, or broth. Add in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of creole seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking until the sauce reduces by half, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
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Cook Shrimp: Carefully add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re opaque and cooked through, depending on their size.
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Finish Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chilled butter, cut into small pieces, until it melts completely. Season with salt to taste before serving this delightful dish.
Optional: Serve with crusty French bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These New Orleans BBQ Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the sauce up to 24 hours in advance by combining the butter, garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beer (or broth), lemon juice, creole seasoning, and black pepper in an airtight container. Simply refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to cook. The shrimp can be peeled and deveined a day ahead as well, just store them in the fridge to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, heat the prepared sauce in a pan, add the shrimp, and cook until they’re perfectly tender—giving you delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze the shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop instead of the microwave to retain flavor and moisture without overcooking the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your reheated New Orleans BBQ shrimp with fresh bread or over rice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
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Butter Quality: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; it allows the flavors of the New Orleans BBQ shrimp to shine without being overly salty.
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Fresh Garlic: Always opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced. Fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor that enhances the aroma and taste of your dish.
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Spice It Up: Adjust the hot sauce according to your heat preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
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Shrimp Size: Ensure your shrimp are of even size for more uniform cooking. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly to maintain texture and flavor.
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Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on simmering time; reducing the sauce too much can lead to a thick and overpowering flavor. Aim for a well-balanced sauce that complements the shrimp.
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Serve Warm: Enjoy your New Orleans BBQ shrimp immediately after cooking. The dish is best savored fresh, with bread to soak up every delicious drop!
What to Serve with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
As you savor each bite of this flavorful dish, consider pairing it with sides that enhance its bold, zesty profile.
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Crusty French Bread: The perfect companion to soak up your delicious sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast to the spice, its crunchy texture and cool creaminess balance the heat beautifully.
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Garlic Butter Rice: This fragrant side will complement the shrimp’s flavors, and it’s ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Serve your garlic butter rice warm, allowing its buttery goodness to contrast with the shrimp’s vibrant spices.
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Grilled Asparagus: Its smoky flavor paired with crisp-tender texture will elevate your meal’s aesthetics and taste.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Serve these seasoned wedges alongside your shrimp for a comforting, satisfying crunch with every bite.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option, tangy lemonade cuts through the richness while iced tea offers a lovely herbal note.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note! This light, airy dessert pairs wonderfully after a savory meal, leaving your taste buds blissfully satisfied.
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust this recipe to your taste, because everyone’s palate deserves a little personalization!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for an extra heat boost that truly packs a punch.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika in place of creole seasoning to give the dish a delightful, smoky undertone.
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Herby Twist: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
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Coconut Cream: Substitute half the butter with coconut cream for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in bell peppers and onions while sautéing the garlic to create a vibrant veggie-studded sauce that enhances the overall dish.
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Beer Swap: Experiment with different types of beer, like a stout or lager, for unique flavor profiles that highlight the sauce.
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Creamy Finish: Stir in a spoonful of heavy cream at the end to create a rich and luxurious texture that takes this shrimp to the next level.
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Citrus Zing: Add zest from an orange or lime for an additional layer of flavor that brightens the dish beautifully.
With these delightful variations, you can make each serving of New Orleans BBQ Shrimp a unique experience that invites exploration!
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh, firm shrimp with a slightly ocean-like smell. If you’re choosing frozen shrimp, opt for ones labeled “IQF” (individually quick frozen) to ensure freshness. The size of the shrimp matters too—medium to large (about 21-25 count per pound) works best for this recipe.
What is the best way to store leftover New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to ensure the shrimp don’t become tough.
Can I freeze the New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer them to the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too thick during cooking, you can simply add a splash of water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency. Just mix well and continue heating. It’s always a good idea to taste and adjust seasoning after doing this.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
It’s essential to be mindful! If you or your guests have allergies, consider using alternatives where necessary. For instance, use gluten-free beer or broth as a substitute for those who are gluten-sensitive. The recipe contains shrimp, so if anyone is allergic to shellfish, please ensure they do not partake!
What’s the best way to tell if the shrimp are cooked?
Absolutely! Shrimp are done when they turn an opaque white color and curl into a “C” shape. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. Be careful not to overcook them, or they may become rubbery—trust me, no one wants that!
Savory New Orleans BBQ Shrimp: A Flavorful Twist You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt Butter: Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Once melted, add 3 cloves of chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Combine Sauces: Pour in 1/4 cup of hot sauce, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, and 1/3 cup of your choice of beer, wine, or broth. Add in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of creole seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking until the sauce reduces by half, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Cook Shrimp: Carefully add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re opaque and cooked through.
- Finish Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chilled butter, cut into small pieces, until it melts completely. Season with salt to taste before serving.