1-First Step: Prep the shrimp and ingredients Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry if needed. Since this recipe uses 2 pounds medium to large fresh shrimp unpeeled, leave the shells on for cooking if you want the deepest flavor. Gather the butter, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, bay leaves, Creole seasoning, oregano, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, green onions, lemon juice, and sliced lemon so everything is within reach.

2-Second Step: Start the sauce Set a large skillet or heavy pan over medium heat. Add the 1 and a half sticks or 3/4 cup butter and 1/4 cup olive oil. Let the butter melt fully, then stir in the 6 cloves garlic, minced. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the garlic smells fragrant. Do not let it brown too much, or it may turn bitter.

3-Third Step: Build the Cajun BBQ flavor Pour in the 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, then add the 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 and a half teaspoons paprika, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Stir well so the seasonings dissolve into the sauce. The pan should smell rich, spicy, and a little smoky at this point. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors blend.

4-Fourth Step: Add the shrimp Place the shrimp into the skillet in an even layer. Spoon the sauce over the top so every shrimp gets coated. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes on the first side, then turn the shrimp and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes. The exact time depends on the size of the shrimp. They are ready when they turn pink, curl into a loose C shape, and feel firm but still juicy.

5-Fifth Step: Finish with lemon and green onions Stir in the 2 tablespoons lemon juice and add the 1 lemon, sliced. Sprinkle in the 3 green onions, sliced, and give everything one last gentle stir. The lemon juice lifts the sauce and keeps the flavor balanced. If you want the sauce a little thinner, add a small splash of water or extra lemon juice.

6-Final Step: Serve right away Spoon the shrimp and sauce into a serving bowl or over hot rice, pasta, or crusty bread. Make sure to include plenty of the buttery sauce because that is where so much of the flavor lives. Serve immediately while the shrimp are hot and tender.