Name: Louisiana BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: Shrimp (peeled and deveined): 1 lb (450g); Butter: 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick); Olive oil: 2 tablespoons; Garlic (minced): 4 cloves; Lemon: 1 medium (for fresh juice); Cajun seasoning: 1 tablespoon; Paprika: 1 teaspoon; Worcestershire sauce: 2 teaspoons; Hot sauce: 1-2 teaspoons (to taste); Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped for garnish)

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If you’ve never had Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, then you’re in for a treat. This dish is bursting with flavor, perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying a cozy, indulgent meal at home. And while it might sound fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. I love making this dish when I’m craving something spicy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about Louisiana BBQ Shrimp—it’s all about that rich, buttery sauce that packs a punch with bold spices. The shrimp soak up all the flavors and turn into these succulent little bites that make you want to eat the whole plate in one sitting. It’s got heat, savory goodness, and a little bit of tang. Plus, it’s quick to make, so even on busy nights, you can treat yourself to a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish without the hassle.

Ingredients (Find the full list below)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Butter
Olive oil
Garlic
Lemon
Cajun seasoning
Paprika
Worcestershire sauce
Hot sauce
Fresh parsley

You’ll find the full list of ingredients below, so don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

Directions

1. Prep the Shrimp

Start by prepping your shrimp. Peel and devein them if they aren’t already. You can leave the tails on for extra flavor and presentation, or remove them for a more hands-off experience. Once your shrimp are ready, set them aside.

2. Make the Garlic-Butter Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it heat up for a minute. Then, throw in your minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should just get golden and aromatic.

3. Add the Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in your Cajun seasoning, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and a few dashes of hot sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a minute or two, so the spices can infuse into the butter and oil. You’ll start to smell those rich, smoky notes, and your kitchen will smell amazing!

4. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat them evenly. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. You’ll want to watch them closely to avoid overcooking—they cook fast!

5. Finish with Lemon and Parsley

Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavors. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Give everything a quick toss, and your Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is ready to serve!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Don’t overcook the shrimp! They cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to make sure they stay tender and juicy.
If you like your dish spicier, you can add more hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—it really makes a difference.
This dish is perfect when served right away, but it’s also great for leftovers if you have any!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Shrimp Substitution: If you’re not a shrimp fan, you can use scallops or chicken breasts cut into small pieces. Both work well with the buttery sauce.
Spicy Kick: If you want more heat, add a little extra Cajun seasoning or toss in some chopped fresh chilies when cooking the garlic.
Non-Dairy Option: You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like ghee or olive oil for a lighter version.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Louisiana BBQ Shrimp pairs beautifully with a side of buttery rice, crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or a simple green salad. If you’re serving this as a main course, a side of roasted vegetables or coleslaw adds a nice balance. You can also serve it over a bed of pasta or alongside grits for a more traditional Southern touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

4 FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and refrigerate it, but I wouldn’t recommend cooking the shrimp ahead of time. Shrimp is best served fresh and tender.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

What kind of hot sauce should I use?
A classic Louisiana-style hot sauce like Tabasco is great, but feel free to use any hot sauce you love. If you like it extra spicy, go for a more robust hot sauce.

Can I make this recipe without Cajun seasoning?
While Cajun seasoning gives it that authentic Louisiana flavor, you can make your own spice mix with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne if you don’t have it on hand.

Conclusion

This Louisiana BBQ Shrimp recipe is one of those dishes that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this dish will never disappoint. The buttery, spicy sauce clings to the shrimp, making every bite a savory delight. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a taste of Louisiana from the comfort of your home!

Louisiana BBQ Shrimp Recipe

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 3 servings
Category: Main Dish, Seafood
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Southern, Cajun
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A flavorful and indulgent Louisiana BBQ Shrimp recipe featuring a rich, buttery sauce with bold spices. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy, spicy meal at home.

Instructions

Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary. Optionally, leave tails on for extra flavor and presentation. Set aside.
Make the Garlic-Butter Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil, heat for 1 minute, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
Add the Seasonings: Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to infuse the spices into the sauce.
Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
Finish with Lemon and Parsley: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Toss to combine and serve.