New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp: A Taste of the Big Easy

The aroma alone transports me back to a tiny, bustling eatery in the French Quarter. Steam rising from a cast-iron skillet, a symphony of sizzling butter, garlic, and spices… that was my first encounter with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. The juicy, plump shrimp, swimming in that intoxicating sauce, served with crusty French bread for sopping up every last drop – it was an unforgettable experience that ignited my love for Cajun cuisine. This recipe captures that authentic flavor, bringing a piece of New Orleans to your own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian

Ingredients

• 2 lbs shrimp, unpeeled, tail on (31-35 count)
• 1/2 lb butter
• 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon basil
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• 2 tablespoons seafood magic (Paul Prudhomme brand recommended)
• 2 tablespoons creole seasoning (Zatarain’s recommended)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 dash cayenne pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons black pepper (to taste)
• 4 ounces Louisiana hot sauce
• 2 ounces Tabasco sauce
• 1-2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 1 cup white wine

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Spoons and Cups

Instructions

1. Begin by rinsing the shrimp in cold water. Then, gently pat them dry with paper towels and set them aside in a bowl. It is important to remove as much excess moisture as possible so that the shrimp brown properly.
2. In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, basil, oregano, and parsley. Stir these ingredients into the melted butter.
4. Next, add the seafood magic, creole seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Make sure to measure these spices carefully as they are the heart and soul of that New Orleans flavor.
5. Now, add the Louisiana hot sauce, Tabasco sauce, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. The combination of hot sauces will give a deep and complex heat.
6. Pour in the white wine and add the sliced lemons.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently to ensure the spices are well incorporated and the butter doesn’t burn. Reduce the heat slightly if necessary.
8. Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the sauce.
9. Turn the heat to high and cook, stirring often, for 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook quickly.
10. Look for the shrimp to curl into a “C” shape and turn pink. This is the sign that they are perfectly cooked. If they curl into an “O” shape, they are overcooked.
11. Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have a small skillet, cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they brown properly and cook evenly.
• Use good quality butter. The butter is a key ingredient in this dish, so using high-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in the flavor.
• Adjust the heat to your liking. The cayenne pepper and hot sauces give this dish a kick, so adjust the amount to your preference.
• Make the sauce ahead of time. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for a quicker cooking process when you’re ready to eat.
• If you don’t have seafood magic, you can substitute it with a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Experiment with the ratios to find a flavor you like.
• For a richer flavor, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce at the end of cooking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the New Orleans BBQ Shrimp immediately while it’s hot and bubbly. The traditional way to enjoy this dish is by peeling the shrimp and dipping them in the flavorful sauce. Don’t forget to provide plenty of crusty French bread for soaking up every last drop.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough. Adding a little extra butter or white wine can help to keep them moist during reheating. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the shrimp.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	420 kcal	21%
Total Fat	30g	46%
Saturated Fat	19g	95%
Cholesterol	204mg	68%
Sodium	1290mg	54%
Total Carbohydrate	6g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	1g	2%
Protein	30g	60%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy BBQ Shrimp: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: Increase the amount of garlic and lemon juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
• Beer BBQ Shrimp: Substitute the white wine with your favorite beer for a different depth of flavor. A dark beer like a stout or porter would add a rich, malty note.
• Creamy BBQ Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shrimp with portobello mushrooms or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian-friendly version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-peeled shrimp for this recipe?
A: While you can use pre-peeled shrimp, keeping the shells on during cooking adds flavor to the sauce. If you do use pre-peeled shrimp, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Q: What if I don’t have Paul Prudhomme’s Seafood Magic?
A: You can create a substitute by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the ratios to match your taste.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: The sauce can be made ahead of time, but the shrimp are best cooked fresh. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and less enjoyable.

Q: What’s the best way to serve New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
A: Traditionally, it’s served with crusty French bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it over rice or pasta.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
A: Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape. If they curl into an “O” shape, they are overcooked and will be tough.

Final Thoughts

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s a celebration of flavor, a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with skill and passion. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list—this recipe is surprisingly quick and easy to make. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be transported to the heart of the French Quarter. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with the variations, and share your creations with friends and family. Pair it with a cold Abita beer or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for the ultimate New Orleans experience. Enjoy!