There’s a joy in cooking that can transform an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary, and this New Orleans BBQ Shrimp recipe is just the ticket. The first time I whipped this up, I was craving a taste of the Big Easy and genuinely surprised by how quickly I could recreate that vibrant flavor at home. With just a handful of ingredients swirling together in a sizzling skillet, the air fills with the tantalizing aroma of garlic, butter, and a hint of spice that draws everyone into the kitchen.
Picture this: succulent shrimp simmering in a rich, buttery sauce infused with Creole seasoning and tangy lemon juice, ready to be mopped up with crusty French bread. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Easy, delicious, and downright comforting, this dish is bound to break the monotony of fast food runarounds and introduce a little soul to your dinner table. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why is New Orleans BBQ Shrimp a Must-Try?
Speedy: With a total time of just 17 minutes, this dish delivers bold flavors without the wait.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and Creole spices creates a symphony of taste that will take your senses on a trip to New Orleans.
Succulent Shrimp: Using large, head-on shrimp enhances the seafood experience, offering a delightful bite every time.
Satisfying: Pair it with crusty French bread for a meal that’s as heartwarming as it is filling.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for impressing guests or serving the family, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite at your table.
Elevate your home-cooking game with this delectable dish—it’s like a taste of the Big Easy right in your kitchen!
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Salted butter – 3 tbsp for a rich, creamy base that enhances the flavors.
- Cold salted butter – 12 tbsp, cut into 1/2″ cubes; adding chilled butter at the end creates a beautifully smooth sauce.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, finely chopped; the essential aromatic that elevates this dish with its wonderful fragrance.
- Creole or Cajun seasoning – 1 tbsp; brings a delightful kick and authentic New Orleans flavor to the shrimp.
- Ground black pepper – 4 tsp; adds depth and a slight heat to the rich sauce.
For the Saucy Kick
- Crystal hot sauce – ½ cup; provides the perfect heat and tanginess to liven up the dish.
- Worcestershire sauce – ¼ cup; deepens the savory notes, balancing out the garlic with its complex flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice – 2 tbsp; brightens everything up, making the dish fresh and zesty.
For the Shrimp
- Large/jumbo shrimp, head-on and/or shell-on – 1 ½ lb; enhances the seafood experience, delivering bold and sweet flavors.
For Serving
- French bread – perfect for soaking up that luscious garlic butter sauce, creating a comforting finishing touch.
With these carefully chosen ingredients, you can recreate the tantalizing experience of New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and turn any meal into a fulfilling feast.
How to Make New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
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Heat 3 tablespoons of salted butter in a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to melt and become bubbly. This sets the foundation for your rich sauce!
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Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s soft and fragrant. This step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Stir in the Crystal hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, Creole seasoning, and ground black pepper. Mix well, and bring to a simmer, letting the sauce reduce by half, roughly 5-7 minutes.
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Add the large shrimp to the bubbling sauce. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, flipping them once until they are pink and cooked through. Don’t rush this step; watch them transform!
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Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cold butter cubes until they melt smoothly into the sauce, creating a velvety finish. Taste and adjust with additional Creole or Cajun seasoning if desired.
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Serve the shrimp hot, generous with the sauce, alongside slices of crusty French bread for the ultimate comfort meal. Enjoy the balance of flavors!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover New Orleans BBQ shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors and texture of the shrimp and sauce.
Freezer: If you need to freeze it, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to cool it completely before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to retain the sauce’s creaminess.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with fresh French bread or a light salad for a quick and satisfying meal even after storage!
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative! Transform this classic dish into your own masterpiece with these delightful twists.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños for an extra layer of heat—perfect for those who love a fiery flavor!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for a refreshing touch that brightens the dish.
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Coconut Creamy: Substitute half of the butter with coconut cream for a tropical twist that adds richness and a hint of sweetness.
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Zesty Citrus: Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus zing that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
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Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based option that soaks up that delicious sauce wonderfully.
For an added rhythm, consider mixing in diced tomatoes during cooking. They’ll add a touch of sweetness and color to your dish, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor.
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Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic to 4 cloves for a more robust flavor that leaves everyone craving seconds!
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Honey Sweetness: Drizzle honey into the sauce for a balance of sweet and spicy, creating a deliciously unique variation.
With these variations, you’re not just making a meal; you’re crafting an experience that caters to your taste buds!
Expert Tips for New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
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Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh, head-on or shell-on shrimp for a juicier and more flavorful experience that truly captures the essence of this dish.
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Butter Temperature Matters: Use cold butter to finish the sauce; this ensures a rich, creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor without separating.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the shrimp! Cook just until they turn pink and curl slightly—this will ensure they remain tender and juicy.
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Adjust Heat Levels: Customize the spice by adjusting the amount of hot sauce. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more gradually for your desired kick.
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Perfect Bread Pairing: Choose good quality French bread or a crusty baguette; it’s essential for sopping up that luscious garlic butter sauce, creating a satisfying meal.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?
As the aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, it’s time to consider the perfect accompaniments to elevate this delightful dish.
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Creamy Risotto: The rich creaminess of risotto perfectly balances the bold flavors of the shrimp, creating a sumptuous meal that soothes the senses.
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Garlic Bread: A must-have for mopping up the luscious garlic butter sauce, garlic bread adds layers of flavor and a satisfying crunch.
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Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed in a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between bites.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add a delightful crunch and natural sweetness, complementing the savory shrimp beautifully.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a hint of acidity, balancing out the rich and buttery shrimp.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, enhancing the dish’s flavors while providing a refreshing sip.
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Lemon Sorbet: Ending with a light lemon sorbet creates a perfect palate cleanser, leaving sweetness and a touch of zest lingering on your tongue.
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Chocolate Mousse: For those with a sweet tooth, rich and airy chocolate mousse offers a delightful finish, rounding out the bold meal with a touch of indulgence.
Make Ahead Options
These New Orleans BBQ Shrimp are ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the garlic butter sauce (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors. Additionally, clean and devein the shrimp ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the sauce over medium heat until warm, then add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready for any occasion, just like a taste of the Big Easy without the wait!
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh, large or jumbo head-on and shell-on shrimp. This not only enhances the seafood experience but also adds a richer flavor to your dish.
How long can I store leftover New Orleans BBQ Shrimp in the fridge?
You can store leftover New Orleans BBQ Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its deliciousness!
Can I freeze New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze, let the shrimp and sauce cool completely. Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
To reheat, gently thaw the container in the fridge overnight. Then, warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps retain the smooth, creamy texture of the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Is it safe for pets to have New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
While shrimp itself can be safe for pets in moderation, keep in mind that the seasonings and garlic in the dish may be harmful to them. It’s best to avoid sharing this dish with your furry friends and stick to treats specifically made for them.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Very much! If you or someone dining with you prefers less heat, I suggest starting with half the amount of Crystal hot sauce. You can always adjust and add more until you reach your desired spiciness—cooking should always be tailored to your taste!
Savor New Orleans BBQ Shrimp with Flavor-Packed Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 3 tablespoons of salted butter in a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
- Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the Crystal hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, Creole seasoning, and ground black pepper. Mix well, and bring to a simmer, letting the sauce reduce by half, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Add the large shrimp to the bubbling sauce. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, flipping them once until they are pink and cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cold butter cubes until they melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Serve the shrimp hot, generous with the sauce, alongside slices of crusty French bread.
