Louisiana BBQ Shrimp
Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is a bold New Orleans classic featuring shell-on shrimp simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce with Cajun spices, lemon, and a touch of heat. This quick stovetop recipe delivers deep Southern flavor perfect for dipping crusty French bread.
Equipment
- large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Measuring spoons
- measuring cups
- mixing spoon or spatula
- knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 lb large shrimp, shell-on and deveined
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- French bread, for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat completely dry, leaving the shells on for maximum flavor.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt fully, then stir in olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with warm French bread.
Notes
Use shell-on shrimp for the most flavorful results. Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure proper searing. Adjust cayenne and hot sauce to control heat levels. Serve immediately with warm French bread to soak up the buttery sauce.