New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. First off, it’s packed with bold flavors, combining the heat of Cajun spices with the richness of butter and garlic. The shrimp become perfectly tender as they soak up the savory, tangy sauce that’s both spicy and tangy with a hint of sweetness. It’s an unforgettable flavor explosion in every bite. This dish is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners, but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (with tails on)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup beer (optional for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter along with the olive oil.
2. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. If using, pour in the beer and cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Once the shrimp is cooked, sprinkle chopped parsley and green onions on top, then serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes (including prep time)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes to make the dish extra spicy.
• Non-Spicy Version: If you’re not a fan of spice, reduce the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to a minimum, or skip it entirely.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with tofu or grilled vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Seafood Medley: Add other seafood like crab or scallops to the mix for a seafood extravaganza.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking the shrimp. You can also microwave it, though the texture of the shrimp may not be as ideal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

2. Can I use shrimp without tails?

You can use shrimp without tails, but the tails do add extra flavor when cooked in the sauce.

3. What if I don’t have hot sauce? Can I use something else?

If you don’t have hot sauce, you can substitute it with a few dashes of cayenne pepper or even a mild salsa for a similar flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just cook the shrimp and heat the sauce together.

5. Is this dish spicy?

Yes, the dish has a mild to moderate heat level from the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne to suit your spice preference.

6. What kind of beer should I use?

A light lager or pilsner works best, as it adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the shrimp.

7. Can I use another protein besides shrimp?

Yes! This recipe can also be made with scallops or chicken, though the cooking times may vary slightly.

8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter gives the best flavor and richness, margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary.

9. How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque. They cook very quickly, usually about 2-3 minutes per side.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a large enough skillet to accommodate the shrimp.

Conclusion

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy, delicious meals. The combination of tender shrimp, spicy sauce, and aromatic herbs makes this dish unforgettable. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, it’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and incredibly tasty. Try it today and enjoy the rich, spicy, and buttery goodness of New Orleans cuisine!