New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

There’s something unforgettable about New Orleans cuisine—it’s bold, soulful, and packed with flavor. This New Orleans BBQ Shrimp recipe is a true taste of that magic: juicy shrimp simmered in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a little spice and a whole lot of love. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, dipping warm bread into the sauce and enjoying every messy, delicious bite.

Perfect for a weekend dinner, date night, or whenever you want a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, this shrimp recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds large shrimp, shell-on (head-on if available for authentic flavor)
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Tabasco; adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or seafood stock)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
• Crusty French bread, for serving

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp
   Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. Leave the shells on for maximum flavor.
2. Melt the butter & sauté aromatics
   In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Build the sauce
   Stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne, thyme, and black pepper. Let the spices bloom in the butter for another 1–2 minutes.
4. Add broth & simmer
   Pour in the chicken broth and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
5. Cook the shrimp
   Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook—they should be tender and juicy.
6. Finish & garnish
   Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately with plenty of crusty French bread to soak up that buttery sauce.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Shrimp size: Larger shrimp (16–20 per pound) work best, but smaller ones are fine—just reduce cook time.
• Don’t skip the shells: Cooking shrimp with shells on infuses the sauce with rich, briny flavor.
• Adjusting spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce cayenne or hot sauce. Love spice? Add extra hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.

Recipe Variations

• Protein swap: Try crawfish or scallops for a twist on the classic.
• Creamier sauce: Add ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a velvety texture.
• Herbal notes: Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor spin.
• Lightened up: Use half the butter and increase broth for a lighter but still flavorful sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty French bread or garlic bread—soaking up the sauce is a must!
• Pair with a light side salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
• For heartier meals, spoon shrimp and sauce over steamed rice, grits, or pasta.
• Add lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.

Conclusion

This New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is everything comfort food should be—rich, messy, and meant to be shared. The buttery sauce, the tender shrimp, and the bold Cajun flavors bring a little piece of Louisiana straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this dish guarantees happy bellies and warm memories. So grab some shrimp, a loaf of bread, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as fun as it is flavorful.