If you crave a dish that bursts with bold flavors, rich buttery goodness, and a touch of Southern charm, then the Louisiana BBQ Shrimp: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. This vibrant Creole classic may not actually involve a traditional barbecue, but it shines with its garlicky, slightly spicy sauce that perfectly complements plump, juicy shrimp cooked to perfection. Every bite brings a delightful mix of tangy lemon, smoky paprika, and a hint of cayenne that dances on your taste buds, making it a memorable meal you’ll want again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are both simple and essential, each playing a special role in building that signature Louisiana flavor profile. From the tender shrimp to the blend of spices and the richness of butter, these components come together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
- 1 pound large shrimp (shell-on, deveined): Using shell-on shrimp adds extra flavor and juiciness during cooking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for the sauce, lending creamy richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps melt the butter and prevents it from burning while adding a subtle earthiness.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a fresh, zesty brightness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Enhances lemon flavor without adding extra acidity.
- 1 tablespoon Creole or Cajun seasoning: Gives the shrimp that signature Southern spice and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a gentle heat kick, adjustable to your preference.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or seafood stock: Helps deglaze the pan and create a luscious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions: Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with herby freshness and color.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
How to Make Louisiana BBQ Shrimp: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
Begin by rinsing your shrimp under cold water to remove any residue and then pat them dry thoroughly. Leaving the shells on not only locks in moisture but also enhances the final flavor, making the shrimp succulent and tender once cooked.
Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil. As soon as the butter starts bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant and just golden — this step infuses your sauce with that unmistakable garlicky aroma that carries through every bite.
Step 3: Creating the Sauce
Next, stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any tasty browned bits, then allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so it thickens slightly and concentrates those rich, layered flavors.
Step 4: Cooking the Shrimp
Place the shrimp into the skillet in a single layer, letting them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and become opaque. Stir occasionally to coat the shrimp evenly with the glorious sauce, ensuring each piece soaks up all those incredible seasonings.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions and fresh parsley on top. These fresh herbs add just the right amount of brightness and a lovely splash of color that makes the dish pop.
How to Serve Louisiana BBQ Shrimp: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes such as a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or green onions enhance the visual appeal and add a fresh contrast to the rich, buttery shrimp. A wedge of lemon on the side invites an extra squeeze for tangy brightness just before eating.
Side Dishes
The magic of Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is that it pairs incredibly well with crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up every bit of the luscious sauce. You could also serve it alongside creamy grits, steamed rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal that balances textures and flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a striking presentation, serve the shrimp in a rustic cast-iron skillet right at the table, letting your guests dive in family-style. Alternatively, arrange the shrimp over a bed of fragrant rice in shallow bowls, garnished with bright herbs and lemon wedges to create a vibrant, inviting dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, be sure to transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It keeps best up to 2 days, though shrimp is always best enjoyed fresh to appreciate its full flavor and texture.
Freezing
While not ideal, you can freeze cooked shrimp by placing it in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. To maintain the best flavor, consume within one month. Keep in mind that freezing might slightly change the shrimp’s texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp over low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to help keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the shrimp and alter the luscious sauce texture.
FAQs
Is Louisiana BBQ Shrimp actually cooked on a barbecue grill?
No, this classic dish isn’t cooked on a traditional barbecue grill. It gets its name from the bold BBQ-style sauce, but the shrimp are cooked in a buttery skillet sauce inspired by New Orleans flavors.
Can I peel the shrimp before cooking?
Yes, you can peel the shrimp if you prefer, but cooking them with shells on enhances the flavor and keeps the shrimp juicy and tender.
What can I substitute for dry white wine?
If you want to avoid alcohol, seafood stock or even chicken broth works wonderfully to add depth and help build the sauce.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s moderately spicy thanks to the Creole seasoning and optional cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking by reducing or omitting the cayenne.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Louisiana BBQ Shrimp: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! Recipe that makes it a go-to favorite for any seafood lover seeking bold, comforting flavors with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe guarantees a rewarding, mouthwatering experience that effortlessly brings a taste of New Orleans right to your table. So grab those shrimp and dive in—you’re in for a treat you won’t forget!
Print
Louisiana BBQ Shrimp: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try! Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, Creole
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Discover the rich flavors of Louisiana with this incredible BBQ Shrimp recipe. This New Orleans classic features large shell-on shrimp cooked in a bold, buttery sauce seasoned with Creole spices, garlic, and a splash of white wine. Perfect for a quick and impressive main course that brings the taste of Cajun and Creole cuisine right to your table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (shell-on, deveined)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon Creole or Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or seafood stock
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add seasonings and simmer: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Pour in the white wine and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to slightly reduce and blend flavors.
- Cook the shrimp: Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh parsley over the shrimp. Serve immediately with crusty French bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Notes
- Keep the shrimp shells on for maximum flavor and juiciness, but feel free to peel before or after cooking for easier eating.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- This recipe doesn’t involve traditional grilling or barbecuing; the term “BBQ” refers to the rich, buttery sauce typical of New Orleans-style cooking.
- Dry white wine adds depth, but seafood stock is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
