Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is a bold, buttery seafood classic featuring shell-on shrimp simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with Cajun spices, Worcestershire, hot sauce, and fresh lemon. Despite the name, there’s no grill involved—just a sizzling skillet and crusty French bread ready to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Big Cajun Flavor – A punchy blend of garlic, paprika, lemon, and heat.
• Fast & Impressive – Ready in just 20 minutes, yet restaurant-worthy.
• Sauce Worth Savoring – Rich, buttery, and perfect for dipping bread.
• Shell-On Shrimp Boosts Flavor – Adds depth and keeps shrimp juicy.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust cayenne and hot sauce to taste.
• Perfect Appetizer or Main – Serve as a starter or hearty seafood entrée.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds large shrimp, shell-on and deveined – Shells enhance flavor and protect shrimp from overcooking.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Forms the luxurious base of the sauce.
• 1/4 cup olive oil – Prevents butter from burning and balances richness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth.
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Louisiana-style preferred) – Provides signature tangy heat.
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brightens the rich sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Essential aromatic backbone.
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning – Delivers spice and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds smoky warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances spice blend.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) – Controls heat level.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Fresh finish and color contrast.
• French bread, sliced – For soaking up the buttery sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Keep shells on for maximum flavor and moisture retention.

Build the Butter Base

In a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat, melt butter completely. Add olive oil and heat for 1 minute until shimmering.

Sauté the Garlic

Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Avoid browning to prevent bitterness.

Create the Sauce

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne. Simmer 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the bubbling sauce and toss to coat. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque (internal temperature 120–125°F). Do not overcook.

Finish & Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve Immediately

Transfer to a serving bowl with plenty of sauce and warm French bread on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp – They cook quickly and turn rubbery if overdone.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Bottled juice lacks brightness.
• Control the Heat – Adjust cayenne and hot sauce as desired.
• Serve in the Pan – Keeps shrimp warm and sauce fluid.
• Add Sausage for a Hearty Twist – Andouille pairs beautifully.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 (as appetizer)
• Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving

(Values are estimates and may vary.)

Perfect Pairings

• Crusty French Bread – Essential for dipping.
• Steamed White Rice – Absorbs flavorful sauce.
• Simple Green Salad – Cuts through richness.
• Cold Beer or Lemonade – Refreshing contrast.

Ideal Occasions

• Mardi Gras Celebrations – Classic Louisiana flavor.
• Dinner Parties – Impressive yet simple.
• Seafood Nights – Quick indulgent option.
• Date Night at Home – Elegant and flavorful.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Best Served Fresh – Texture is optimal immediately after cooking.
• Refrigerate Up to 2 Days – Store airtight with sauce.
• Reheat Gently – Warm slowly in skillet to avoid overcooking shrimp.
• Avoid Microwave Overheating – Shrimp can toughen quickly.

Creative Variations to Try

• Add Andouille Sausage – Slice and sauté before adding shrimp.
• Creamy Cajun Version – Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream at the end.
• Extra Smoky – Add a dash of liquid smoke.
• Herb Upgrade – Include fresh thyme for added depth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Shrimp Rubbery – Likely overcooked; reduce cooking time.
• Sauce Too Spicy – Add a splash of cream or extra butter.
• Sauce Too Thin – Simmer a minute longer to reduce slightly.
• Burnt Garlic Flavor – Lower heat and sauté garlic briefly.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of butter and olive oil creates a stable cooking fat that carries bold Cajun spices without burning. Shell-on shrimp release additional flavor into the sauce while protecting the meat from drying out. Acid from lemon balances the richness, and Worcestershire deepens savory complexity. With roughly 560 calories per serving, this dish is indulgent but satisfying, especially when paired with lighter sides.

Final Thoughts

Louisiana BBQ Shrimp is a true Southern classic—bold, buttery, and bursting with spice. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. Serve it hot with plenty of bread, embrace the messy joy of shell-on shrimp, and savor every bite of this Cajun favorite.