New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce): A Flavor-Packed Delight

I’ll never forget the first time I had New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp. It was during a trip to the Big Easy a few years ago, and I was exploring the vibrant food scene. As I wandered through the French Quarter, the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling shrimp in a rich, buttery sauce wafted through the air, luring me into a cozy little restaurant. From the first bite, I was hooked. The tender shrimp practically melted in my mouth, coated in a flavor-packed sauce that had just the right balance of tangy, spicy, and savory notes. It was an experience I knew I had to recreate at home.

After experimenting and perfecting the recipe, I’m excited to share my version of this New Orleans classic with you. This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) is about to become a staple in your household, I can guarantee it.

Why This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)

The secret to truly authentic New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp lies in the sauce. It’s a delightfully decadent blend of rich, creamy butter, tangy Worcestershire, and a kick of spice from paprika and cayenne. The key is to let the sauce simmer and reduce slightly, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. This results in a velvety, intensely flavored sauce that coats each succulent shrimp to perfection.

But the real magic happens when you serve this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) with crusty French bread or over rice. The bread soaks up every last drop of that incredible sauce, while the rice provides a fluffy base to soak it all up. It’s an experience that transports you straight to the heart of the French Quarter.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, these juicy, tender shrimp are the perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: The rich, creamy backbone of the sauce, providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This savory, umami-packed ingredient adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: The brightness of lemon helps to cut through the richness of the butter and balance the flavors.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is an essential component, lending its pungent aroma and flavor to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: This smoky, slightly sweet spice lends an authentic Cajun flair to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A touch of heat from the cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick to the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy, slightly sweet oregano complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Fragrant thyme adds an herbaceous note to the sauce.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to balance and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a fresh, lively touch to the dish.

Step-by-Step New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Instructions

Preparing Your New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)

This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking. All you’ll need is a large skillet or sauté pan to bring this dish to life.

1- Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp, if they haven’t already been prepared. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels, ensuring they are completely clean and ready to cook.

2- In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.

3- Immediately add the shrimp to the pan, arranging them in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and just beginning to curl.

4- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5- Remove the pan from the heat and garnish the New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) with freshly chopped parsley.

6- Serve the shrimp immediately, spooning the rich, buttery sauce over the top. Accompany with crusty French bread or serve over fluffy white rice for the ultimate New Orleans-inspired experience.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
2. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Keep a close eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they’re pink and curled.
3. For a creamier, more velvety sauce, consider whisking in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream just before serving.
4. Adjust the spice level to your personal preference by adding more or less cayenne pepper. Start with the recommended amount and taste, adding more if you want a bolder kick.
5. Serve this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) with plenty of crusty French bread or over rice to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce.

Serving and Storing Your New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)

Perfect Pairings for New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)

This recipe for New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) serves 4 people, making it a fantastic option for a casual weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering. To complete the New Orleans-inspired experience, serve it with fluffy white rice or crusty French bread for sopping up the rich, flavorful sauce.

For a refreshing contrast, pair this dish with a crisp green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. And don’t forget the perfect beverage pairing – an ice-cold beer or a glass of chilled white wine would be the perfect accompaniment.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The great news about this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat. Any leftover shrimp can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

For longer-term storage, you can also freeze the New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce). Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce)

Creative New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Variations

While this classic New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:

• Swap out the shrimp for crawfish or a mix of shrimp and crawfish for an authentic Cajun twist.
• Add diced bell peppers or onions to the sauce for additional flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different spice blends, like Cajun seasoning or a dash of smoked paprika.
• Serve the shrimp over creamy grits instead of rice for a hearty, comforting meal.
• For a touch of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce.

Making New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Diet-Friendly

To make this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe more diet-friendly, you can try a few simple substitutions:

• Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter to reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
• Opt for low-sodium Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice to cut back on sodium.
• Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Serve the shrimp over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• For a dairy-free take, use a plant-based butter substitute or coconut milk in the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp for this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry to ensure they sear properly.

Q: How long does it take to make this dish?
A: This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe has a total time of 20 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) ahead of time. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and you can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe serves 4 people.

Q: What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I adjust the recipe?
A: Absolutely. You can easily adjust the level of heat in this recipe by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper. Start with a smaller amount and taste, then add more if you want a bolder kick.

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Conclusion

This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, flavorful seafood dishes. The combination of tender shrimp, a rich and creamy butter sauce, and the authentic Cajun spices is simply irresistible. Whether you’re transporting your taste buds to the vibrant streets of New Orleans or just looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Grab the ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience the magic of New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts!