What makes New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp different from traditional barbecue?

New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp is distinct because it’s not cooked on a grill like traditional barbecue. Instead, it features shrimp sautéed in a rich, buttery sauce made with Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and Cajun spices. The term “barbecue” in this dish refers to the flavorful sauce rather than grilling. This preparation results in tender shrimp coated in a spicy, tangy, and buttery glaze, highlighting Creole and Cajun culinary influences unique to New Orleans.

How do you properly cook New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp at home?

To cook New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp, start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, Creole seasoning, and black pepper. Add raw shrimp and sauté until they turn pink and are just cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Finish by simmering the sauce until it thickens slightly. Serve immediately with crusty French bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water for quicker defrosting. Using thawed shrimp ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to coat the shrimp properly. Avoid cooking frozen shrimp directly to prevent uneven texture and excess water diluting the sauce.

What side dishes pair well with New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp?

New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp pairs well with simple sides that complement its rich, spicy sauce. Classic choices include French bread or baguettes for dipping, steamed white rice to balance the spice, and sautéed greens like kale or collards. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery shrimp dish.

How spicy is New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp, and can the heat level be adjusted?

The heat level of New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp can range from mild to moderately spicy, depending on the amount of Cajun seasoning or hot sauce used. To reduce spiciness, use less seasoning or substitute with milder spices. For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or extra hot sauce gradually while tasting. Adjusting the spice to your preference ensures a flavorful dish without overpowering heat.

New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp Recipe With Cajun Flavors

Name: New Orleans Style Barbecue Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: – 2 pounds medium to large fresh shrimp cooked in their shells; – 3/4 cup butter (1 1/2 sticks); – 1/4 cup olive oil; – 1/4 cup Worcestershire-type sauce; – 6 cloves garlic minced; – 2 bay leaves; – 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning; – 1 teaspoon oregano; – 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika; – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; – 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; – 3 green onions sliced; – 2 tablespoons lemon juice; – 1 lemon sliced for garnish and added flavor

Ingredients

– 2 pounds medium to large fresh shrimp cooked in their shells

– 3/4 cup butter (1 1/2 sticks)

– 1/4 cup olive oil

– 1/4 cup Worcestershire-type sauce

– 6 cloves garlic minced

– 2 bay leaves

– 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning

– 1 teaspoon oregano

– 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

– 3 green onions sliced

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

– 1 lemon sliced for garnish and added flavor

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Instructions

1-First: pour the simmering sauce over the shrimp arranged in a baking dish.

2-Bake: at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking.

3-Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a moment.

4-Serve immediately with crusty French bread to soak up the sauce, as traditionally enjoyed.

5-For variations, consider checking our double garlic brown butter shrimp recipe for a garlic-focused twist.

Notes

🍞 Serve with crusty French bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
🦐 Keep the shrimp in their shells to retain moisture and enhance the sauce.
🌶️ Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking and Simmering
Cuisine: Cajun, New Orleans
Diet: Pescatarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 420
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 200mg