It was a balmy summer evening in the heart of the French Quarter when I first tasted the mouthwatering delicacy that is New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce). The aroma of sizzling shrimp in a rich, garlicky butter sauce wafted through the air, drawing me in like a magnet. As I sank my teeth into the plump, juicy shrimp, the flavors exploded on my tongue – a perfect blend of smoky spices, tangy Worcestershire, and that irresistible, velvety butter sauce. From that moment on, I knew this dish would forever hold a special place in my heart (and my stomach!).
Why This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)
What makes this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe truly special is the way the flavors meld together to create a truly decadent and addictive dish. The key is in the balance of rich, creamy butter, tangy Worcestershire, and a subtle heat from the smoked paprika and cayenne. The result is a sauce that’s so good, you’ll be tempted to drink it straight from the pan.
But it’s not just the sauce that makes this recipe shine. The shrimp themselves are the star of the show, perfectly cooked until plump and juicy. The secret is in the quick sear, which seals in the natural sweetness of the shrimp and gives them a delightful, slightly charred exterior.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – These jumbo-sized shrimp are the perfect canvas for soaking up all the bold flavors in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – The foundation of the rich, velvety sauce that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Providing a savory, aromatic base that complements the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adding a tangy, umami kick that balances out the richness of the butter.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A bright, acidic note that cuts through the richness and brings the whole dish into perfect harmony.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Lending a subtle smokiness that adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – A whisper of heat that wakes up the taste buds and complements the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Providing a subtle background spice that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adding a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens up the dish.
- Lemon wedges for serving – The perfect accompaniment to squeeze over the shrimp for a refreshing, citrusy kick.
Step-by-Step New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Instructions
Preparing Your New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)
With a total time of just 25 minutes (10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking), this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe is the perfect weeknight meal. All you’ll need is a large skillet or sauté pan, a sharp knife, and a few simple kitchen tools.
1- Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp, ensuring they’re clean and ready to cook.
2- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3- Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re just beginning to turn pink and curl up.
4- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley, coating the shrimp evenly.
6- Serve the New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the top.
Pro Tips for Success
1- Don’t be tempted to overcook the shrimp – they’ll continue to cook even after you remove them from the heat, and you don’t want them to become tough and rubbery.
2- Be generous with the butter – it’s the key to that rich, velvety sauce, so don’t skimp!
3- Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper. Start with the 1/2 teaspoon and add more if you want a bit more kick.
4- Garnish with plenty of fresh parsley for a vibrant, herbaceous touch that balances out the richness of the dish.
Serving and Storing Your New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)
Perfect Pairings for New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)
This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy, indulgent meal. Serve it with a fresh, crisp salad and a crusty baguette for sopping up every last drop of that heavenly sauce. And don’t forget the cold beer – a refreshing, hoppy lager or ale is the perfect companion to this rich and flavorful dish.
If you’re looking to make it a more substantial meal, serve the shrimp over a bed of creamy grits or fluffy white rice. And for a touch of elegance, pair it with a glass of dry white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the shrimp. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp, cooking until they’re just heated through. This is a great option if you’re entertaining and want to get a head start on your meal prep.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)
Creative New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Variations
- Add a splash of white wine or dry vermouth to the sauce for a touch of acidity and complexity.
- Swap out the shrimp for scallops or even chicken for a delicious twist on the classic.
- Toss in some diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
- Serve the shrimp over a bed of creamy polenta or grits for a heartier, more filling meal.
Making New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or substitute coconut aminos.
To make it dairy-free, swap out the butter for a high-quality olive oil or plant-based butter alternative. The sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy, but it will still be full of flavor.
And for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, serve the shrimp over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional starches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute a different type of shrimp?
A: Absolutely! While large shrimp are recommended for this recipe, you can use medium or even small shrimp if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I ensure the shrimp don’t overcook?
A: The key is to keep a close eye on the shrimp and not let them cook for too long. They’ll continue to cook even after you remove them from the heat, so aim to take them off the stove when they’re just barely cooked through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the cooked shrimp. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp, cooking just until they’re heated through.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe serves 4 people, making it the perfect size for a small dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal.
Q: What should I do if the sauce seems too thin?
A: If the sauce isn’t thickening up to your liking, try simmering it for an extra minute or two. You can also create a slurry by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stirring it into the sauce.
New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the bold, buttery flavors of this restaurant-quality New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp recipe, made right at home in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Stir to coat the shrimp.
4. Cook the shrimp for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are pink and opaque.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
6. Serve the New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
For best results, use large, high-quality shrimp. The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Conclusion
Once you try this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. The rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp are a match made in heaven, transporting you straight to the vibrant streets of the French Quarter.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the taste of the Big Easy in your own kitchen. And don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see how your New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) turns out!
