Succulent, buttery, and full of zesty Creole flavor, this New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp is perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Cajun Flavor: A perfect balance of spices, herbs, garlic, and citrus brings a vibrant Southern flair.
- Completely Alcohol-Free: Enjoy the classic dish without wine or beer—family-friendly and inclusive.
- Quick & Easy: On the table in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfect Sauce For Dipping: Rich, buttery sauce just begs for crusty French bread.
- Great For Any Occasion: Ideal for casual dinners, gatherings, or a spicy weeknight treat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup seafood stock (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Crusty French bread, for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in thyme, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and brown sugar.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and seafood stock. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve with crusty French bread for dipping.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 380 kcal per serving
Variations
- Mild Option: Reduce cayenne or skip it altogether.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a smooth sauce.
- Over Pasta: Serve over linguine or angel hair instead of bread.
- Citrus Boost: Add orange zest for a sweet-citrusy layer.
- Different Protein: Try with scallops or firm fish fillets for variety.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes in shrimp.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth.
FAQs
Is This Dish Alcohol-Free?
Yes, this version contains no beer, wine, or any alcohol.
What Can I Use Instead Of Seafood Stock?
Chicken broth works well as a substitute and adds depth.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Can I Make This Less Spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Does The Sauce Thicken?
It stays buttery and thin—perfect for dipping. For a thicker sauce, simmer a few minutes longer.
What Sides Pair Well With This?
A green salad, rice, or steamed vegetables make great companions.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end and heat just until warmed through.
Is Worcestershire Sauce Alcohol-Free?
Most brands are alcohol-free, but always check the label if avoiding it strictly.
Can Kids Eat This Dish?
Yes—just reduce the spice and it’s a family-friendly favorite.
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Use a dairy-free butter alternative to keep the flavor and texture similar.
Conclusion
New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp—minus the alcohol—brings you all the signature spice, richness, and Southern soul of the original. With its bold flavor and quick cooking time, it’s a guaranteed winner for busy weeknights or special meals. Just add some crusty bread and dig in—you won’t miss the alcohol one bit.
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New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A Southern classic full of bold Cajun flavor, this dish features juicy shrimp simmered in a buttery, spicy Worcestershire-based sauce—with no alcohol—perfect for sopping up with crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup seafood stock (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Crusty French bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in thyme, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and brown sugar.
- Pour in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and seafood stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with warm, crusty French bread for dipping in the sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp—just make sure they are well drained.
- Adjust cayenne to control heat level.
- Chicken broth can be substituted for seafood stock.
- Serve with rice instead of bread for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 860 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg