Rich, buttery, and boldly seasoned, Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is messy in the best possible way — a skillet full of sizzling shrimp meant for dipping, dunking, and savoring.
A Louisiana Story Behind This Dish
Despite the name, Louisiana BBQ Shrimp never sees a grill. This New Orleans classic is all about a bubbling pan of butter, garlic, spices, and shrimp cooked fast and hot until the sauce turns deep and savory.
It’s a restaurant favorite and a home kitchen showstopper — the kind of dish that demands crusty bread, extra napkins, and good company around the table. Every bite is smoky, tangy, and unapologetically rich.
Louisiana Main Dishes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, buttery New Orleans flavor
- Fast and easy skillet cooking
- Perfect for dipping bread in sauce
- Restaurant-style dish at home
- Ready in under 30 minutes
Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Louisiana / New Orleans
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs large shrimp, shell-on (or peeled, if preferred)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For serving:
- Crusty French bread or rice
Directions
- Melt the butter:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. - Build the sauce:
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and salt. - Add the shrimp:
Place shrimp into the skillet and toss to coat in the butter sauce. - Cook the shrimp:
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, stirring often, until shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. - Simmer briefly:
Let the sauce bubble gently for 2–3 minutes so flavors combine. - Finish:
Remove from heat and stir in green onions and parsley. - Serve:
Spoon shrimp and sauce into bowls and serve hot with crusty French bread for dipping or over white rice.
Pro Tips for Perfect BBQ Shrimp
- Shell-on shrimp create the richest, most flavorful sauce.
- Keep heat moderate so butter doesn’t burn.
- A splash of beer or white wine adds depth.
- Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.
What to Serve With BBQ Shrimp
- Warm crusty French bread
- Steamed white rice
- Simple green salad
- Cornbread
- Cold beer or sweet tea
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the shrimp tender.
Final Thoughts
Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is pure New Orleans indulgence — buttery, spicy, and built for sharing. Grab extra bread, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every saucy bite. Gather your people, dig in, and let the good times cook.