Spice Things Up with this Must-Try Barbecued Shrimp Recipe

Are you looking to spice up your next dinner party or gathering with something that will make your guests’ taste buds dance with pleasure? Look no further than this barbecued shrimp recipe that will transport you right to the heart of New Orleans.

This recipe is a tried and true favorite of mine, a classic that never fails to impress. It’s the perfect dish for sharing with friends and family on a warm summer evening or a cozy winter night by the fireplace. The key is in the ingredients – from the tangy Worcestershire sauce to the fragrant dried herbs, all mixed together with fresh garlic and unsalted butter for an explosion of flavors.

But what really sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can cook it on the grill outdoors or on the stovetop indoors, depending on the occasion and your preference. And there are endless variations and substitutions you can try depending on what you have on hand, from swapping in cajun seasoning for creole seasoning to using olive oil instead of canola oil.

So whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal for your family or hosting an extravagant dinner party for your closest friends, this barbecued shrimp recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary arsenal. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds like never before with this New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Barbecued Shrimp
Barbecued Shrimp

Listen up, my fellow food lovers! I have a recipe that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s the Barbecued Shrimp Recipe: a mouth-watering dish that will have you coming back for more.

First of all, let me tell you about the flavor explosion that this recipe brings to your palate. The combination of zesty Worcestershire sauce, garlic and dried herbs like oregano, rosemary and thyme creates an aroma that will tantalize your senses. And the addition of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of kick to this already flavorful dish.

But that’s not all! The seasoning mixture is combined with large shrimp and grilled to perfection, creating a succulent and juicy texture in every bite. Whether you love shrimp or are a seafood sceptic, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Not just delicious, this recipe is also incredibly easy and quick to prepare. All it takes is a little bit of marinating time and then tossing the shrimp on the grill for a few minutes until they turn pink. You’ll hardly break a sweat cooking this fantastic meal!

Lastly, I must add that this recipe is versatile and customizable to your preferences. You can adjust the amount of spice level to suit your taste buds – from mild to fiery hot – and change up the type of herb combinations used in the seasoning blend. Additionally, Barbecued Shrimp pairs well with many different sides such as grits, stir-fried vegetables or even salad!

So there you have it folks- the perfect Barbecued Shrimp Recipe: flavorful, quick to cook, versatile and downright delicious! Trust me when I say that this dish will soon become a household favorite – just one bite will transport you straight to New Orleans!

Ingredient List

 A sizzling plate of Barbecued Shrimp, hot and ready to be devoured!
A sizzling plate of Barbecued Shrimp, hot and ready to be devoured!

Let’s Get the Ingredients to Whip Up This Classic Dish

Before we dive into creating the delicious New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp, let’s analyze the must-have ingredients for this recipe. These ingredient list includes:

  • 2 pounds of extra-large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons of coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 cloves of minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons of dried oregano leaves
  • 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary leaves
  • 2 teaspoons of dried thyme leaves
  • A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt to taste

This ingredient list is enough to prepare servings for up to eight people. Don’t fret if you have a smaller or larger group; this recipe is quite accommodating in that regard. Keep reading, and let me guide you through the next steps.

The Recipe How-To

 The juicy and perfectly cooked shrimp are sure to be the star of your next party.
The juicy and perfectly cooked shrimp are sure to be the star of your next party.

Now comes the fun part – cooking up some delicious New Orleans-style Barbecued Shrimp! With the right ingredients and technique, you can make an amazing dish that will have your guests begging for more.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 pounds of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 ½ sticks of unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • Juice from 1 large lemon
  • 6 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano leaves
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary leaves
  • ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

  2. In a cast iron skillet or any ovenproof skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, black pepper, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes.

  3. Stir all the ingredients together and let them cook for roughly two minutes until fragrant.

  4. Toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp into the mixture until they are coated evenly.

  5. Place the cast iron skillet in the preheated oven and bake the shrimp for ten minutes. Be careful not overcook them!

  6. Add salt to taste and give it a final stir before serving hot.

Notes

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to customize by adjusting quantities or choosing different types of shrimp or seasoning blends.

But there are a few tips you must follow if you want to achieve perfect results every time.

Tips

  • If you prefer grilled shrimp or outside cooking during summer parties instead of baked shrimp in your kitchen, try barbecuing them over charcoal or propane grills for an added smoky flavor.
  • Use high-quality ingredients and when possible fresh spices for best results, which include plump juicy shrimp fresh from water tanks rather than frozen ones.
  • Don’t forget to devein them properly so that each bite is full-sized and tastes great.
  • Use salt water to clean shrimp; this helps remove any impurities that may affect their flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

 Get ready to lick your fingers as you savor the smoky flavor of these mouth-watering shrimp.
Get ready to lick your fingers as you savor the smoky flavor of these mouth-watering shrimp.

I may love to stick to the tried-and-tested recipe, but sometimes it’s fun to add your own twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative with these substitutions and variations that are sure to elevate this already amazing barbecued shrimp recipe!

First off, let’s talk about the type of shrimp you’re using – this recipe calls for extra-large shrimp, but you can also use jumbo shrimp or even prawns if that’s what you have on hand. For a twist on the classic New Orleans-style bbq shrimp, try using smaller shrimp and skewer them for some delicious garlic shrimp kabobs.

If you prefer a milder dish, cut back on the crushed red pepper flakes or completely omit them. You can also add a little barbecue sauce to the marinade mixture if you like that sweeter tang in your shrimp.

For some added depth of flavor, substitute beer for the Worcestershire sauce – it gives just a hint of maltiness that goes so well with seafood. You can also skip the butter altogether and use olive oil for a healthier option.

Wanting to take it up another notch? Add some grits on the side! Grits are a popular Southern staple and make an ideal complement for bbq shrimp. Or how about serving it grilled style? Emeril Lagasse’s grilled barbecued shrimp amps up the smoky flavor by cooking over charcoal in a cast iron skillet.

And lastly, let’s not forget about those who want to keep things simple. Follow Toni Tipton-Martin’s recipe for Spicy Shrimp Scampi for an easy-to-make dish that still packs those New Orleans vibes!

Play around with these substitutions and variations until you find your perfect version of this classic New Orleans bbq shrimp recipe!

Serving and Pairing

 There's nothing quite like the aroma of succulent Barbecued Shrimp wafting through your backyard.
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of succulent Barbecued Shrimp wafting through your backyard.

Now, let’s talk about serving and pairing this delicious BBQ shrimp recipe. As this dish has some bold flavors, it needs something to balance it out. A cold, crisp beer would work perfectly with these spicy and flavorful shrimp. It can help to cut the richness of the sauce and provide a refreshing contrast.

Apart from beer, you can also consider serving this dish with some buttery garlic bread or crunchy French bread to soak up all that tasty sauce. Moreover, you can make some roasted vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers, to create a colorful and nutritious meal.

If you want to make it a complete meal, then serve these BBQ shrimp on top of a bed of fluffy grits. This southern favorite is the perfect complement to the New Orleans style barbecue shrimp recipe.

For an elegant presentation, serve this dish in individual cast-iron skillets straight out of the oven. It will keep the shrimp hot for longer and make an impressive centerpiece for any dinner party.

Lastly, if you’re serving a larger crowd, consider making some Cajun-spiced fried shrimp on the side as an appetizer or alternate main course. Emeril Lagasse’s famous shrimp and grits recipe is also an excellent option if you want to add some variety to your meal.

Overall, there are many ways to serve and pair this delicious barbecued shrimp dish, so get creative in your kitchen and enjoy the flavors of New Orleans right at home!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Impress your guests with these delicious, flavor-packed shrimp that are sure to leave them wanting more.
Impress your guests with these delicious, flavor-packed shrimp that are sure to leave them wanting more.

Now, let’s talk about what happens to those juicy barbecued shrimp leftovers. Sometimes we cook a little too much and have some delicious shrimp leftover, and other times we purposely make extra to store for lunch or another meal. Either way, it is essential to know how to handle the leftovers properly.

First things first – always handle the cooked shrimp with clean hands and utensils to prevent contamination. If you don’t plan to serve your leftover barbecue shrimp right away, allow them to cool down on the counter for no longer than two hours before transferring them into an airtight container.

You can keep your cooked shrimp in the refrigerator for up to three days, but I doubt they will last that long! To reheat the leftovers, place them in a skillet, add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil and heat over medium heat until warmed through. If you decide to pop them into the microwave, be careful not to overcook them; it’s easy to turn perfectly cooked juicy shrimp into rubbery ones!

If you’re looking for a make-ahead option, prepare the shrimp marinade ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. You can also peel and devein the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. The barbecue sauce can also be prepared a day ahead or stored in the fridge for up to five days.

Lastly, if you’re grilling outside with friends and family, it makes sense to prepare everything beforehand so that you can relax and enjoy the party too! You can skewer the rinsed and dried shrimp ahead of time (up to four hours), brush them with marinade or olive oil and leave them in the fridge until its time to grill.

With these tips in mind, you’ll certainly get your New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp fix whenever you want – whether it’s fresh off the grill or out of the fridge!

Tips for Perfect Results

 From the moment you take a bite of these Barbecued Shrimp, you'll know it's going to be
From the moment you take a bite of these Barbecued Shrimp, you’ll know it’s going to be

Now that you know how to cook the perfect barbecued shrimp, it’s important to pay attention to the details to ensure a delicious and successful result. Here are some tips that will take your shrimp from good to amazing:

1. Use large, fresh shrimp: The quality of the shrimp you use will make all the difference in this recipe. It’s best to use large, fresh shrimp as they will hold up better on the grill or in the pan.

2. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can be tough and rubbery. Cook them only until they turn pink and start to curl into a C-shape.

3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes: To infuse the shrimp with flavor and ensure tender results, marinate them for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

4. Use a cast-iron skillet: If you’re cooking your shrimp indoors, a cast-iron skillet is your best bet. It distributes heat evenly and can withstand high temperatures.

5. Add some heat: For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

6. Serve with crusty bread: You’ll want something to soak up all that flavorful marinade, so serve your barbecued shrimp with some crusty bread or rice.

7. Don’t forget the beer: Nothing pairs better with spicy barbecued shrimp than an ice-cold beer.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to serving up a perfectly cooked and flavorful batch of barbecued shrimp that will have your guests begging for more!

FAQ

Now, let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions about this delicious Barbecued Shrimp Recipe. It’s not unusual to wonder if you can swap ingredients, how long the shrimp takes to cook, or if it can be reheated without losing flavor. Let’s delve deeper into these inquiries in hopes of deciphering and sharing all valuable information on this recipe.

What is the best way to barbecue shrimp?

To prepare the shrimp skewers, carefully coat each shrimp with some olive oil, then apply a generous sprinkle of kosher salt and ground black pepper for enhanced flavor. Get the grill ready by heating up one side. Once the grill is hot enough, proceed to grill the shrimp skewers for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until the flesh turns pink, slightly firm to the touch, and not translucent. Once perfectly cooked, use tongs to carefully remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and serve them on a clean plate.

How long do you barbecue shrimp?

To kick off the shrimp grilling process, fire up your grill and let it preheat to a temperature range of 350-450°F. Make sure you have set it up accordingly for direct cooking. Place your shrimp on the grill, and with the heat set to medium, grill for approximately 5-7 minutes. Ensure that you turn the shrimp over once, right in the middle of the process, to guarantee full and even cooking all around. Once done, the shrimp’s exterior should take on a lovely pink color, while the insides are now white and opaque. A true culinary delight!

Should you soak shrimp before grilling?

When preparing shrimp dishes through grilling, broiling or baking, it’s wise to consider a brining process beforehand. It may seem counterintuitive since shrimp hail from the salty hub of the ocean, but soaking them in a solution infused with salt and sugar can imbue them with a layer of moisture that combats dryness. This step can make a world of difference in the end product.

Do you put oil on shrimp before grilling?

Grilling shrimp to perfection requires marinating them in a savory mixture of olive oil, herbs, garlic, and lemon, before skewering and cooking them. It is recommended to grill shrimp on skewers as this prevents them from slipping through the grates of the grill while being flipped, ensuring a delicious outcome.

Bottom Line

Now that you have all the ingredients and steps at your disposal, it’s time to get grilling and make some delicious Barbecued Shrimp! Whether it’s with family or friends, this New Orleans-style BBQ Shrimp recipe is sure to impress. The combination of bold flavors like Worcestershire sauce, garlic, dried oregano leaves, dried rosemary leaves, crushed red pepper flakes, and lemon juice create a succulent and zesty taste that your guests will love. Not to mention the succulent large shrimp cooked to perfection soaked in butter and beer sauce.

So next time you have a party or just want to mix things up for dinner, give this Barbecued Shrimp recipe a try. It’s simple enough for anyone to follow but flavorful enough to make your taste buds sing. With versatile serving options ranging from grits to garlic shrimp skewers, these shrimp are guaranteed to be popular with everyone! So grab your apron, tongs, and beer (optional) and let’s start cooking these delicious shrimp!

Barbecued Shrimp

Barbecued Shrimp Recipe

This is great shrimp, messy, but good! Stir the sauce frequently while serving, since it separates easily. We eat this by peeling the shrimps at the table and stirring them into the sauce and don't forget the French bread, it's great dipped into the sauce. This recipe just serves two, if you want to serve it to more than that, it's suggested you do so in separate batches. Recipe is from Chef Paul Prudhomme's Louisiana Kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Calories 747 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 dozen large shrimp, with shells
  • 1 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves, crushed
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  • 1/4 lb butter, plus
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup shrimp stock or 1/2 cup seafood stock (see my recipe for seafood stock or use your own)
  • 1/4 cup beer, at room temperature

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the shrimp in cold water and drain well, set aside.
  • In a small bowl combine the seasoning mix ingredients (red pepper through oregano leaves).
  • Combine 1 stick of the butter, the garlic, Worcestershire and seasoning mix in a large skillet over high heat.
  • When the butter is melted, add the shrimp; cook for 2 minutes, shaking the pan (versus stirring) in a back-and-forth motion.
  • Add the remaining 5 tablespoons butter and the stock; cook and shake pan for 2 minutes.
  • Add the beer and cook and shake the pan 1 minute longer and remove from heat.
  • Serve immediately in bowls with lots of French bread on the side, or on a platter with cooked rice mounded in the middle and the shrimp and sauce surrounding it.

Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 214gCalories: 747kcalCarbohydrates: 4.8gProtein: 12.8gFat: 75.9gSaturated Fat: 47.6gCholesterol: 304.2mgSodium: 1496.1mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 0.5g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Lunch, Spicy, Stove Top
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