New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is a classic Southern dish that captures the bold, rich, and unmistakable flavors of Louisiana cuisine. Despite its name, this iconic dish doesn’t involve a barbecue grill or sauce. Instead, it features plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a decadent butter sauce flavored with Worcestershire sauce, garlic, lemon juice, and a blend of Creole spices. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s deeply satisfying and utterly irresistible.

Originating in the vibrant city of New Orleans, BBQ Shrimp is a staple in local restaurants and homes alike. It’s one of those dishes that’s best enjoyed with a side of crusty French bread to soak up every drop of the buttery sauce—it’s that good. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger Creole-inspired spread, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity. You can prepare it in under 30 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples and fresh shrimp. Perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings a taste of the Big Easy to your table. Get ready to dive into a dish that’s bold, flavorful, and dripping with Southern charm!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is a dish that’s impossible not to love. First, it’s a celebration of bold, complex flavors that come together harmoniously in the rich, buttery sauce. The tanginess of the Worcestershire sauce, the heat from Creole spices, the brightness of fresh lemon juice, and the aroma of garlic create a sauce so addictive you’ll want to lick your plate clean.

This recipe is also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. You’ll spend more time eating and enjoying than you will cooking. And the best part? No fancy equipment or complicated techniques are required.

What makes New Orleans BBQ Shrimp even better is its versatility. While it’s traditionally served with French bread, you can pair it with rice, grits, or even pasta to turn it into a hearty meal. It’s a dish that adapts to any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive holiday feasts. If you’re craving a taste of New Orleans, this recipe delivers it in every bite.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving size: 1/4 of the shrimp with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 390
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, shell-on and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1/4 cup seafood or chicken stock (optional, for a thinner sauce)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (e.g., Tony Chachere’s or Zatarain’s)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional Garnishes:

• Lemon wedges
• Additional parsley

For Serving:

• French bread, sliced and toasted
• Steamed white rice, creamy grits, or pasta (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Leave the shells on for maximum flavor during cooking, as they help infuse the sauce with a deeper seafood taste.
2. Devein the shrimp by making a shallow cut along the back and removing the vein with a knife or toothpick.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Base

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and optional seafood or chicken stock. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Butter

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
2. Gradually add the cubes of butter, a few at a time, stirring constantly to create a smooth, emulsified sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

1. Increase the heat to medium. Add the shrimp to the skillet, arranging them in a single layer.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

1. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp and sauce. Toss gently to combine.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a serving platter or shallow bowl.
2. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with French bread for dipping or over rice, grits, or pasta for a heartier meal.

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

The shrimp are the star of this dish, so it’s worth using high-quality fresh or frozen shrimp. Leaving the shells on adds flavor to the sauce as it simmers, creating a more authentic and robust taste. Jumbo or large shrimp work best, as they hold their texture and absorb the sauce beautifully.

Worcestershire Sauce

This umami-rich sauce is a key ingredient that gives New Orleans BBQ Shrimp its distinctive tangy, savory flavor. Its blend of vinegar, molasses, and spices provides a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the buttery sauce.

Creole Seasoning

Creole seasoning is the soul of this dish, infusing it with the bold, spicy, and smoky flavors that define Louisiana cuisine. Popular brands like Tony Chachere’s or Zatarain’s work well, or you can make your own blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.

Butter

Butter forms the luxurious base of the sauce, making it rich, silky, and indulgent. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.

French Bread

A crusty loaf of French bread is essential for soaking up the buttery, flavorful sauce. Toasting the bread adds texture and enhances its ability to absorb the sauce.

Technique Tips

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
2. Keep the Sauce Smooth: Add the butter gradually while stirring to create a smooth, emulsified sauce. This prevents the butter from separating.
3. Season to Taste: The sauce’s flavor is bold, but feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding more Creole seasoning, cayenne, or lemon juice.
4. Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the shrimp and sauce are hot.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Rice: Serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of steamed white rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• With Grits: Pair the shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits for a Southern-inspired comfort dish.
• Over Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked fettuccine or linguine for a New Orleans-style pasta dish.
• Appetizer-Style: Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks, keeping the sauce in a small bowl for dipping.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if available. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce for dipping, consider doubling the sauce ingredients.
• Make it Spicier: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce for a spicier version.
• Prep Ahead: You can mix the sauce ingredients and prep the shrimp ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Recipe Variations

• Garlic Butter BBQ Shrimp: Add extra garlic to the sauce for a more garlicky twist.
• Spicy BBQ Shrimp: Add sliced fresh chili peppers or extra cayenne for an extra kick of heat.
• Herb-Infused Shrimp: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic variation.
• Seafood Medley: Include scallops or crawfish along with the shrimp for a seafood feast.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Reduce the Butter: Use half the butter and add more seafood stock for a lighter sauce.
• Use Olive Oil: Replace some of the butter with olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
• Add Vegetables: Include sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Parties: Serve New Orleans BBQ Shrimp with crusty bread and a side salad for an elegant main course.
• Game Day: Pair the shrimp with cornbread and coleslaw for a casual, crowd-pleasing spread.
• Holiday Gatherings: Include the shrimp as part of a larger seafood feast with oysters, crab cakes, and gumbo.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A wide skillet ensures even cooking and provides enough space for the shrimp to cook evenly.
• Slotted Spoon: Ideal for removing the shrimp from the sauce without taking excess liquid.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use peeled shrimp? Yes, but the shells add flavor to the sauce. If using peeled shrimp, consider adding shrimp shells to the sauce while it cooks, then strain them out.
2. What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce? Soy sauce mixed with a splash of vinegar and molasses can work as a substitute.
3. Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but add them to the sauce only briefly to warm them through without overcooking.
5. What sides pair well with this dish? French bread, rice, grits, or a simple green salad are perfect accompaniments.
6. Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be prepared ahead of time, but cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture.
7. How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
8. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

Conclusion

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is a dish that’s as bold and vibrant as the city it comes from. With its rich butter sauce, tender shrimp, and irresistible Creole flavors, this recipe is a true celebration of Southern cuisine. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant parties. Serve it with crusty bread, rice, or grits, and don’t forget to have extra napkins on hand—you’ll want to savor every last drop of the sauce! Try this recipe today and bring the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen—it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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