Name: Savory Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp That'll Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp (Shell-on for maximum flavor and tenderness.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (For garnish.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Unsalted.); 2 tablespoons Creole Cajun Seasoning (Authentic Louisiana flair.); 1 cup Clam Juice (Or Fish Stock.); 1 cup White Wine (Chicken broth can replace it.); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce (Or soy sauce as a substitute.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest; 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Lime zest can work as an alternative.); 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce (Adjust to spice preference.)

The tantalizing aroma of Cajun spices fills the air as I pull this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp from the oven, instantly transporting me to the vibrant streets of Louisiana. Succulent jumbo shrimp, drenched in a buttery sauce that embodies both heat and zest, make this dish a showstopper at any gathering. What I love most about this Baked Louisiana-Style BBQ Shrimp is how it marries rich flavors with effortless preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to seafood lovers and adventurous eaters alike. Are you ready to dive into this delectable experience that seems to celebrate Southern cuisine with every bite? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this shrimp recipe irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp delivers a powerful punch of spices and buttery goodness.

Effortless Cooking: With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that seems gourmet.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress.

Customizable Delight: Add your favorite vegetables or mix up the seafood for a personalized twist.

Nostalgic Southern Comfort: Enjoy the rich culinary tradition of Louisiana right at your dining table.

Serve with warm French bread for the ultimate experience, and for more seafood inspiration, check out my Shrimp Scampi Bowls or a comforting Shrimp Casserole Comfort.

Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Jumbo Shrimp – Shell-on for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adding a burst of color and vibrancy.

For the Sauce

Butter – Use unsalted to maintain control over the seasoning.
Creole Cajun Seasoning – This brings authentic Louisiana flair; DIY blends work too!
Clam Juice (or Fish Stock) – Enhances the seafood depth; you can substitute with fish stock if desired.
White Wine – Adds acidity; chicken broth can replace it for a non-alcoholic variant.
Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses umami richness; soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
Lemon Zest and Juice – Brightens the flavor; lime zest works as an alternative.
Hot Sauce – Introduces heat; adjust according to your spice preference.

Note: This perfect medley of ingredients truly makes this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp shine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures that when you introduce the shrimp, they cook quickly while achieving that perfect tender doneness. A properly preheated oven is crucial to bringing out the rich flavors in your Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the shell-on jumbo shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture to ensure the shrimp sear nicely in the sauce. The juiciness of the shrimp will complement the rich, buttery sauce you’ll create later on.

Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt unsalted butter until bubbling, then add Creole Cajun seasoning, clam juice, white wine, Worcestershire sauce, lemon zest, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Stir the mixture, bringing it to a boil before reducing the heat to simmer for 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly, releasing an irresistible aroma.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Arrange the rinsed shrimp in a baking dish in a single layer. Once the sauce is thickened and fragrant, pour it generously over the shrimp, ensuring they are well-coated. The sauce will infuse the shrimp with that signature BBQ flavor and enhance the overall taste of your Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, stir the shrimp gently to ensure even cooking. Continue to bake for an additional 2–3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and firm, indicating they are cooked through and ready to be savored.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp immediately, accompanied by warm French bread to soak up the luscious sauce. This delightful dish is a true celebration of Southern flavors!

Expert Tips for Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Even Heat: Ensure you gently shake the skillet to distribute heat evenly while cooking the sauce; stirring can disrupt the sauce’s texture.

Watch the Clock: Monitor the baking time closely; shrimp can overcook quickly and become rubbery. Aim for pink, firm shrimp for the perfect bite.

Quality Shrimp: Choose shell-on, fresh jumbo shrimp for maximum flavor; frozen can work too, but ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry.

Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to tweak spices based on your taste; the beauty of this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp recipe lies in its versatility.

Serve Fresh: While leftovers are safe to store, this dish is best enjoyed right after cooking to savor the rich, buttery sauce at its peak.

Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp your own with these delightful variations!

Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or corn to enhance color and nutrition, elevating your dish with a crunchy texture.
Mixed Seafood Medley: Combine shrimp with scallops or lobster for an extravagant twist, giving your dish an upgraded seafood flavor.
Olive Oil Alternative: Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version, keeping the richness while reducing saturated fat.
Spicy Kick: Experiment with your favorite hot sauces or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to crank up the heat, catering to spice lovers.
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh parsley for fresh basil or cilantro for a unique herbal twist that brightens the dish, echoing different cuisines.
Citrus Variation: Complement the lemon with orange zest and juice for a sweeter, more nuanced citrus note in the sauce.
Savory Add-Ins: Stir in some sautéed onions or mushrooms before baking for an additional layer of umami that meshes beautifully with the shrimp.

Pair this incredible dish with warm French bread, and if you’re searching for more delicious seafood inspiration, take a look at my Shrimp Scampi Bowls and Shrimp Casserole Comfort. Enjoy customizing your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

To create a mouthwatering meal, pair your succulent shrimp with side dishes that elevate the experience and bring balance to the rich flavors.

Warm French Bread: Dive into the buttery sauce with crusty, warm French bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of flavor.
Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing side with a crunch that provides a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp and rich sauce, adding a touch of brightness.
Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic butter complements the spiciness of the shrimp while acting as a neutral base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn served on the side brings a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that enhances the overall meal experience.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish, incorporating fresh veggies to elevate each bite.
Crispy Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: The crispiness adds another texture, making for a fun finger-food option that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Chilled White Wine: A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay elevates the dining experience, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp.
Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of tangy lemon sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, bringing a bright citrusy finish to your memorable meal.

These complementary dishes not only enhance the flavor of your Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp but create a delightful feast that brings everyone together.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the sauce and coat the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. To maintain that rich flavor, keep the shrimp in an airtight container, ensuring they’re well-covered with the sauce to prevent drying. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and transfer the baking dish straight from the fridge. Bake uncovered for about 12-15 minutes (the initial cooking time may be slightly longer when starting from cold), and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, making busy weeknights much easier!

How to Store and Freeze Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to prevent toughening the shrimp.

Serving Tip: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but when reheating, pair it again with warm French bread for that delightful sauce-sopping experience!

Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for jumbo shrimp that are firm and have a fresh, ocean-like scent. Shell-on shrimp tend to have more flavor, which is perfect for this dish. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry to enhance the sauce’s texture.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow the dish to cool at room temperature before sealing it to maintain the best flavor and quality.

Can I freeze Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
Of course! To freeze, lay the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer them into a zip-top bag or airtight container and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to preserve their succulent texture.

What if my shrimp turns out tough or rubbery?
Timing is key! Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on them while baking. Aim to pull them out of the oven once they turn pink and firm, usually around 12-13 minutes total. If you notice they are tough, it’s likely they were overcooked. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked, as shrimp will continue to cook from residual heat.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This dish is seafood-based, so if you or someone at your gathering has shellfish allergies, it’s best to avoid this recipe. Additionally, for a lighter version, you can substitute olive oil for butter and use less hot sauce for a milder flavor. Feel free to adjust according to dietary preferences or restrictions!

What can I do to enhance the dish further?
I often make a side of crusty French bread for dipping, which pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce. Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or corn not only brightens the dish but also makes it more nutritious. Customize it to your liking; after all, the more the merrier!