This Louisiana BBQ Shrimp recipe is a true gem from New Orleans, combining rich flavors with a delightful spice blend. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dish brings warmth and comfort. The buttery sauce paired with succulent shrimp makes it a standout choice for seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of butter, spices, and fresh ingredients creates an explosion of flavor that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer; it fits any occasion perfectly!
- Minimal Cleanup: One skillet is all you need, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your meal.
- Perfect for Sharing: The generous portion size encourages sharing, making it ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gathering your tools will streamline your experience. Having everything on hand ensures a smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle or serving spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: This is essential for creating the rich sauce and cooking the shrimp evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your Louisiana BBQ Shrimp.
Ingredients
This New Orleans classic brings together the perfect balance of butter, spice, and everything nice, creating a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
For the Shrimp
- 2 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste*
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
For Serving
- French baguette slices
How to Make Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Ingredients
Add minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Ensure each piece is coated with the sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes while turning occasionally until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Finish Up
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer to serving plates or a large platter, ensuring plenty of sauce is included. Serve immediately with warm baguette slices for dipping into that delicious sauce.
How to Serve Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
Serving Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is as important as preparing it. This dish deserves a presentation that highlights its vibrant flavors and inviting aromas. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Warm Baguette Slices
- Enjoy the shrimp with fresh French baguette slices. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. This adds a nice texture and absorbs the delicious sauce.
Accompanied by Coleslaw
- Pair with a refreshing coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. The coolness of the slaw balances the dish’s spiciness.
On a Bed of Grits
- Spoon the shrimp over creamy grits for a Southern twist. This hearty combination makes for a comforting meal.
As an Appetizer
- Serve smaller portions in individual bowls as an appetizer. Garnish with parsley for an elegant touch.
With Lemon Wedges
- Offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the dish’s flavors and adds brightness.
How to Perfect Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
To achieve restaurant-quality Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, consider these tips for perfecting your dish every time.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have better flavor and texture than frozen ones. Choose large, raw shrimp for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time. Shrimp cook quickly; aim for 5-7 minutes until they are just pink and opaque.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify spices according to your taste. If you prefer less heat, reduce cayenne pepper.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps intensify flavors as they meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
Louisiana BBQ Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread
Perfectly toasted garlic bread enhances the meal, allowing you to savor every bit of sauce. - Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn adds freshness and sweetness, balancing the spicy shrimp perfectly. - Fried Green Tomatoes
Their crispy texture provides a delightful contrast, making them a classic Southern side option. - Potato Salad
Creamy potato salad brings richness that complements the spiciness of the shrimp dish well. - Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing palate cleanse between bites of flavorful shrimp. - Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs adds another layer of flavor while soaking up extra sauce nicely. - Sautéed Spinach
Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrition, making your plate visually appealing and healthy. - Baked Beans
Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with Louisiana BBQ flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can detract from this delicious dish.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Aim for a pink color and firm texture after about 5-7 minutes.
- Skipping the seasoning: The blend of spices is crucial for authentic flavor. Don’t skip any ingredients, especially the Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper.
- Using low-quality butter: A rich taste comes from good quality butter. Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish better.
- Not letting flavors meld: Allowing the sauce to simmer before adding shrimp enhances flavor. Take at least 2-3 minutes to combine the ingredients before cooking shrimp.
- Ignoring garnish: Fresh parsley adds brightness to the dish. Always remember to sprinkle it on top before serving for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Louisiana BBQ Shrimp will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
- Place shrimp in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, note that texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to avoid uneven heating.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and reheat the shrimp for about 5 minutes until warmed evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for Louisiana BBQ Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What should I serve with Louisiana BBQ Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with French baguette slices or over rice. You can also serve it with a side salad for balance.
How spicy is Louisiana BBQ Shrimp?
The level of spice largely depends on how much cayenne pepper you use. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or sides—this recipe invites creativity! Try it out today and enjoy a taste of New Orleans at home!
Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
Experience the vibrant flavors of New Orleans with this Louisiana BBQ Shrimp recipe. This dish features succulent shrimp simmered in a buttery, spice-infused sauce that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises warmth and comfort. With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, you can indulge in bold flavors without the hassle of lengthy cooking. Serve it as a main dish with crusty baguette slices for soaking up the sauce or as an enticing appetizer at your next gathering.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat until foamy.
- Stir in garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately with warm baguette slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: For added richness, use high-quality unsalted butter. Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to enhance flavor.
