0 Shares

As the sun sets and the evening air fills with the vibrant sounds of laughter and clinking glasses, nothing beats the feeling of gathering friends and family around the table. I first discovered the glory of Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp at a cozy corner restaurant during a trip to New Orleans. The moment I took that first bite, the symphony of spices and the rich, buttery sauce had me hooked.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve recreated that very experience in my kitchen, turning a classic dish into a weekly family favorite. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients—most of which you’ll likely have on hand—it’s a dish that effortlessly impresses while satisfying those cravings for comfort food. The shell-on shrimp simmer in a mouthwatering blend of spices, garlic, and a splash of white wine, creating a sauce so good you’ll want to dip in your crusty French bread until every last drop is savored. Ready to light up your dinner? Let’s dive into these Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp!

Why is Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp a must-try?

Bursting with flavor, the blend of spices and buttery sauce creates a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more. Easy to prepare, this dish requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Versatile serving options give you the freedom to enjoy it over rice or with crusty bread for a truly comforting experience. Crowd-pleaser, everyone from family to friends will be raving about this recipe. If you’re looking for more delicious seafood options, check out our amazing shrimp scampi recipe.

Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp Ingredients

Get ready to create a flavorful feast!

For the Spice Mixture

½ tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
½ tsp dried thyme – Adds an aromatic touch with earthy notes.
½ tsp dried oregano – Provides a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
½ tsp cayenne – Introduces a nice kick, adjust for spice preference.
¼ tsp black pepper – Brings warmth and a bit of heat.
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, but perfect for spice lovers!
¼ tsp paprika – Adds color and a sweet, smoky essence.
2 bay leaves, crushed – Imparts a subtle depth of flavor.

For the Sauce

4 Tbsp (½ stick) butter – Richness that makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
2 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic fragrance and flavor boost.
½ cup fish or chicken stock – Provides liquid and enhances umami.
¼ cup white wine – Use a dry variety to bring acidity and complexity.
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness to balance the richness.
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce – A savory element that rounds out the flavors.

For the Shrimp

1 lb shell-on shrimp – The shells add depth to the sauce, and they’re delicious!
2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley – For a fresh garnish that brightens up the dish.

To Serve

Hot crusty French bread – Perfect for dipping into that mouthwatering sauce!

Dive into the delicious world of Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp and let your taste buds experience bliss!

How to Make Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely until it starts to foam, creating a rich, buttery base for your sauce.
Sauté 2 minced cloves of garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around!
Stir in the spice mixture: ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon cayenne, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and 2 crushed bay leaves. Let the spices mingle for about 2 minutes to release their flavors.
Add ½ cup fish or chicken stock, ¼ cup white wine, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until it’s well combined and the sauce thickens slightly.
Incorporate 1 pound of shell-on shrimp into the pan, cooking for about 3-5 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque as they cook through—this is the moment of transformation!
Finish by stirring in 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley right before serving. This fresh herb adds a lovely pop of color and flavor!
Serve the Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp with hot, crusty French bread for dipping. Encourage everyone to savor that delectable buttery sauce!

Optional: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the spice mixture and butter sauce up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. The shrimp can also be cleaned and marinated in the sauce, allowing them to absorb those delicious flavors for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the sauce in a pan, add the shrimp, and cook until they turn pink and opaque—this will ensure they’re just as delicious as if made fresh. Enjoy the convenience of a delightful, flavorful meal without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp?

Enjoy a delightful meal experience with these tasty pairings that will elevate your shrimp dish to new heights.

Creamy Grits: The rich, buttery flavor complements the spices in the shrimp while providing a comforting texture. A classic Southern pairing that adds that authentic touch!
Garlic Bread: Enhance the meal with another bread option! The toasted, garlicky goodness is perfect for scooping up the luscious sauce, making every bite irresistible.
Crispy Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of vinegar-based coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp, balancing the meal beautifully. It’s a light and bright addition!
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a vibrant splash of color and earthy flavors. The caramelized sweetness pairs excellently with the shrimp’s spices.
Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad offers a cooling effect that offsets the heat from the spices. The fresh herbs and tangy dressing tie it together nicely.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the flavors of both the shrimp and your side dishes.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish off your meal with a light lemon sorbet. It’s refreshing and cleanses the palate after the spicy shrimp, wrapping up the evening perfectly.

Create a memorable dining experience by mixing and matching these delicious options with your Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp!

Expert Tips for Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and herbs for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp will work but won’t have the same texture.

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne and crushed red pepper flakes. Taste as you go for a tailored flavor.

• Sauce Consistency: Ensure the sauce simmers long enough before adding the shrimp, allowing it to thicken and develop its deep flavor.

• Perfect Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking shrimp! They only need 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque—overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

• Crusty Bread Check: Serve with fresh French bread that’s hot from the oven. It enhances the experience of enjoying every drop of that flavorful sauce!

Savor the magic of Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp with these tips to master this delightful dish!

Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish! The possibilities are endless, and each variation will make your Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp uniquely yours.

Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh basil or dill for a fragrant twist that brightens the entire dish. Fresh herbs can transform familiar flavors into something extraordinary!
Spice Lovers Delight: Increase the cayenne and red pepper flakes for an extra punch. If you’re a fan of heat, this is your chance to turn the dial up!
Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamy sauce that promises to coat every bite. This variation adds a luxurious touch to the buttery base!
Garlic-Infused: Add in roasted garlic instead of minced for a sweeter, mellower flavor profile that brings warmth to your dish. You’ll enjoy an irresistible aroma and taste!
Citrus Zing: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrusy flair. This twist will brighten up the dish and offer a refreshing change.
Beer-Battered Shrimp: Marinate shrimp in your favorite beer for a couple of hours before cooking. The beer enhances the flavors and gives the shrimp a unique depth and character!
Veggie-packed: Toss in a handful of bell peppers or mushrooms while sautéing to add more texture and nutrition to the dish. Vegetarian variations can be just as satisfying!
Asian-inspired: Teriyaki sauce can substitute for Worcestershire for a surprising and delightful flavor blend. This twist will take your taste buds on an adventure they won’t forget!

Embrace these variations and create a Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp dish that suits your cravings and style!

How to Store and Freeze Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep it in the coolest part of your fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you need to freeze it, transfer shrimp into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but be sure to label it for easy identification.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of stock or wine to loosen the sauce if needed.

Bread Storage: Keep leftover crusty French bread in a paper bag to maintain its crustiness for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.

Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp?
Absolutely go for shell-on shrimp! The shells add depth to the sauce, making it richer and more flavorful. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if frozen is what you have, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

How should I store leftover Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend placing it in the coolest part of your refrigerator to keep it fresh. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of fish or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp! Transfer the cooled shrimp (and sauce) into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty plastic freezer bag, ensuring to press out as much air as possible. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat gently on the stove.

What can I do if the sauce is too thin?
If your sauce is thinner than desired, let it simmer a bit longer on medium heat before adding the shrimp. The key is to allow it to reduce and thicken, intensifying the flavors. Another tip is to mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the simmering phase to help thicken the sauce naturally.

Is this recipe suitable for someone with shellfish allergies?
Unfortunately, Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp is not suitable for those with shellfish allergies, as shrimp is the main ingredient. However, you can adapt the recipe by using a firm fish like cod or salmon; just adjust the cooking time accordingly as fish cooks faster than shrimp.

How should I select the best shrimp at the market?
When choosing shrimp, look for firm and translucent shells, avoiding any that feel mushy or have dark spots all over. The best shrimp should have a mild, ocean-like scent, not a strong fishy odor. I often ask my fishmonger for the freshest catch available on that day!