New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce): A Heavenly 10-Minute Delight

Growing up in the heart of New Orleans, the aromas of sizzling seafood and the tantalizing blend of spices were a constant soundtrack to my childhood. One dish that always held a special place in my memories was the legendary New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce). It’s a culinary treasure that’s synonymous with the vibrant culture and bold flavors of this remarkable city.

I can still recall the anticipation I felt as my grandmother would start prepping the ingredients for her famous recipe. The rich, buttery sauce would simmer away on the stovetop, filling the air with the irresistible scent of garlic, Worcestershire, and a hint of spice. When she’d finally set the steaming platter of succulent shrimp on the table, it was as if the entire family had been transported to a lively French Quarter bistro. We’d eagerly dip our crusty French bread into the velvety sauce, savoring every last drop. Those moments together, bonding over the shared love of this New Orleans masterpiece, are cherished memories I’ll carry with me forever.

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)

What sets this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe apart is the perfect balance of bold, complementary flavors. The silky butter sauce is the real star, enriched with garlic, Worcestershire, lemon, and a subtle kick of spice. But the secret lies in the slow, gentle simmering process that allows the ingredients to meld together seamlessly. The result is a sauce so divine, you’ll find yourself sopping up every last drop with crusty bread.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

• Shrimp – Look for large, juicy shrimp that will soak up the flavors of the sauce.
• Unsalted butter – The foundation of the rich, velvety sauce.
• Olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
• Garlic – Minced fresh garlic is essential for that classic New Orleans flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds a complex, umami-packed depth to the sauce.
• Lemon juice – Brightens the dish with a touch of acidity.
• Cayenne pepper – Just a pinch lends a subtle, warming heat.
• Fresh parsley – Sprinkled on top for a pop of freshness.
• Crusty French bread – Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.

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 is remarkably easy to prepare, with a total cooking time of just 25 minutes. All you’ll need is a large skillet or sauté pan and a few simple tools. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

1- Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp, leaving the tails intact for a beautiful presentation.
2- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3- Carefully add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they start to turn pink and curl. Transfer the shrimp to a plate, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
4- Reduce the heat to low and add the butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
5- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat them evenly in the delectable sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through.
6- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately with crusty French bread for dipping.

Pro Tips for Success

• Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can quickly become tough and rubbery.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of heat.
• For even more flavor, try using a splash of dry white wine in the sauce.
• Serve this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) over a bed of creamy grits or fluffy rice.

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

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

This decadent New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) dish is the perfect centerpiece for a lively gathering. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, garlicky roasted vegetables, and a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing craft beer. For a true New Orleans-inspired experience, pair it with a side of creamy, stone-ground grits and a crusty French baguette for sopping up every last drop of that heavenly sauce.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately, then cook the shrimp and combine the two just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

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

Creative New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) Variations

For a seasonal twist, try adding a handful of fresh, diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the sauce. You can also experiment with different types of seafood, such as scallops or even lobster tails, for a luxurious take on the classic dish. And for a heartier meal, serve the New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) over a bed of creamy, cheesy grits or aromatic Cajun-spiced rice.

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

To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can easily substitute the butter for a high-quality olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For a gluten-free option, serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of French bread. And for a lower-carb version, skip the bread and serve the shrimp and sauce as a stand-alone main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can work well, but be sure to thaw them completely before peeling and deveining. This will ensure the shrimp cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Q: How can I achieve the perfect doneness for the shrimp?
A: The key is to not overcook the shrimp. They should be opaque and just barely firm to the touch when done. Keep a close eye on them and remove from the heat as soon as they turn pink and curl slightly.

Q: Can I make the New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the shrimp, and cook until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy meal.

Q: How much does this recipe serve?
A: This New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe as written serves 4-6 people as a main dish. If serving it as an appetizer or alongside other dishes, it can serve up to 8 people.

Q: What if the sauce is too thin?
A: If the sauce is not thickening to your liking, you can try a couple of things. First, let it simmer for a bit longer, stirring frequently, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. If it’s still too thin, you can make a quick roux by whisking in a teaspoon or two of all-purpose flour until the desired consistency is reached.

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Conclusion

Bringing the bold, vibrant flavors of New Orleans right to your kitchen, this New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) recipe is an absolute must-try. With its irresistible, velvety sauce and succulent shrimp, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. So gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and get ready to indulge in a true taste of the Big Easy. Don’t forget to let me know how your New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp (Butter Sauce) turns out – I’d love to hear all about it!