Louisiana BBQ Shrimp | JustWorthi

A Bold and Flavorful Southern Classic

Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is a rich, buttery, and spicy dish that’s bursting with Cajun flavors. Despite the name, this dish isn’t cooked on a grill—it’s made in a skillet with a luscious, savory sauce that begs to be soaked up with crusty bread. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something decadent yet easy to prepare.

My Love for Louisiana BBQ Shrimp

The first time I tried Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, I was hooked. I was visiting New Orleans, and this dish was served with a side of warm, crusty French bread for dipping. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a kick of spice was unforgettable.

What makes this version special? I keep it true to its roots—using plenty of butter, a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth, and a touch of lemon for brightness. The spice level is adjustable, so whether you love bold heat or a milder flavor, you can customize it to your taste.

Ingredient Notes

• Jumbo Shrimp: The star of the dish! Use shell-on shrimp for the most flavor, but peeled shrimp work too.
• Butter: Creates a rich and velvety sauce.
• Garlic & Shallots: Add aromatic depth.
• Cajun Seasoning: Brings that signature Louisiana heat and flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances umami and gives the sauce its deep, savory taste.
• Lemon Juice: Balances out the richness with a fresh, citrusy note.
• Hot Sauce: Optional, but highly recommended for spice lovers.
• Crusty French Bread: Essential for sopping up every last drop of the sauce!

Substitutions:

• Swap shrimp for scallops or even chicken if desired.
• Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning and hot sauce based on your heat preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic and shallots until fragrant.
2. Add the Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they start to turn pink.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with warm, crusty bread.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Use Shell-On Shrimp: Cooking shrimp with the shells on adds more flavor to the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Let the Sauce Thicken: Simmering for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

Serving Suggestions

Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is best served with crusty French bread to soak up the sauce. It also pairs well with rice, grits, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

How spicy is this dish? It has a moderate kick, but you can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce ahead and quickly cook the shrimp when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is a bold, buttery, and irresistibly delicious dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to New Orleans or trying it for the first time, this recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. Let me know how you like it in the comments!

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