Welcome to the delightful world of Cajun BBQ Shrimp 🦐, an easy dish that will surely tickle your tastebuds. With just six essential ingredients (seven, if you count the irresistible crusty bread 🥖 to sop up all the juicy goodness), and a mere 10 minutes of active prep, you’ll have a mouthwatering appetizer or a protein-packed addition to your favorite pastas, salads, and so much more.

Why We Love This Recipe

Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a mouthwatering blend of spices, sizzling on a hot skillet with browning butter, and releasing irresistible aromas that will have your senses dancing with anticipation. Yummy, right? If you love shrimp and Cajun food, you’re going to flip for our BBQ Cajun shrimp.

Still on the fence? This Louisiana BBQ shrimp recipe is also:

  • Made With Under 10 Ingredients – This tongue tickling delight requires just six ingredients (seven, if you count the essential crusty bread to soak up every last drop of its juicy goodness). That means juicy 
  • Quick & Easy – We understand the value of your time, so we’ve crafted a recipe that takes a mere 10 minutes of active prep. That means more time to savor each delectable bite and less time spent in the kitchen.
  • Super Versatile – Whether you’re looking for a mouthwatering appetizer to kick off your next gathering or a protein-packed addition to elevate your favorite pastas, salads, and more, this simple New Orleans BBQ shrimp recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. 

Ingredients & Substitutions

As promised, you only need a handful of ingredients to make this simple New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe: 

  • Shrimp – Opt for no smaller than Large (31/35) shrimp so you don’t accidentally overcook them. Purchase them deveined to save on prep time.
  • Minced Garlic – Fresh is best, but we won’t judge if you use jarred minced garlic to save on time.
  • Olive Oil – Just your normal cooking oil is perfect here.
  • Butter – For rich, brown buttery goodness. Use salted butter for the added seasoning, or add a sprinkle to taste.
  • White Pepper – Known for its sharp and pungent taste, white pepper offers a complex and slightly earthy flavor profile. It is less aromatic than black pepper but packs a spicier punch. The heat of white pepper builds gradually, leaving a lingering warmth on the palate. In a pinch, swap in black pepper.
  • Tony Chachere’s – No other Cajun seasoning graces our spice cabinet besides our beloved Tony’s. Feel free to swap in your favorite Cajun spice blend. 
  • French Bread – We love Reising’s Poor Boy loaves, but any crusty bread will do the trick. You just want to make sure to have something on hand to sop up every last drop of the delicious buttery broth.

How To Make Cajun BBQ Shrimp

This Louisiana Cajun BBQ shrimp recipe comes together with very little fuss. Here’s how:

  1. Cut stick of butter into 8 pieces
  2. Mix olive oil and minced garlic
  3. Place butter and olive oil mixture in baking dish size of your choice ( 7×9 or 9×12)
  4. Rinse shrimp through water until water is perfectly clear
  5. Add shrimp to baking dish and add white pepper and Tony’s
  6. Bake 20- 25 mins on 375 degrees – Bake until mixture comes to a boil
  7. Slice french bread in small baquette size and bake for 5 mins
  8. Serve shrimp appetizer with french bread baquettes

Optional Variations & Serving Suggestions

Want to jazz up your Louisiana BBQ Shrimp recipe with some exciting variations and dietary adaptations? We’ve got you covered:

  • Spicy Kick: If you’re up for some extra heat, why not spice things up? Just sprinkle in a little cayenne pepper or add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. Your shrimp will get a fiery kick that’ll take the flavor to the next level!
  • Citrus Zing: Want to add a burst of refreshing citrus? Squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over your cooked shrimp right before serving. The tangy acidity will perfectly balance the richness and bring out all the delicious flavors.
  • Herb Infusion: Get ready to experiment with herbs! Toss in some freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or thyme into your marinade or use them as a fancy garnish. These herbs will bring their unique aromas and add a touch of freshness that’ll make your taste buds dance.
  • Gluten-Free Option: If you or your guests are gluten-free, don’t worry! Instead of crusty bread, try serving the shrimp over gluten-free bread or a bed of rice or gluten-free pasta. This way, everyone can enjoy the mouthwatering goodness without any gluten concerns.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: For those who prefer to go dairy-free, simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil. This tweak will keep the dish creamy and flavorful while accommodating different dietary choices.

Expert Tips

Here are our best tips to take your Louisiana BBQ Shrimp recipe to the next level:

  • Choose High-Quality Shrimp: Go for the good stuff! Look out for fresh, high-quality shrimp that have a firm texture, a mild aroma, and a translucent appearance. If you can, grab shrimp with the shells on because they bring even more flavor to the party. If you can’t find any in the fresh seafood section, there’s nothing wrong with frozen!
  • Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the flavors mingle by giving your shrimp a little 30 minute rest before cooking. This gives the garlic, olive oil, white pepper, and Tony Chachere’s seasoning a chance to work their magic and infuse the shrimp with mouthwatering taste.
  • Control the Cooking Time: Shrimp are quick little guys, so don’t let them overcook and turn rubbery. Keep a watchful eye on them! Once they turn a beautiful pink color and curl into a cute “C” shape, they’re good to go. 
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your shrimp some breathing room! Avoid overcrowding the pan, so they can cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelization. If things get too cramped, they might end up steaming instead of getting that fantastic sear you’re looking for.
  • Sop Up the Goodness: You don’t want to miss out on any of that amazing sauce! Serving the shrimp with crusty bread is the way to go; it’ll soak up all the juicy goodness. If you’re in the mood for something different, you can also serve the shrimp over rice or alongside pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Right before you dazzle your taste buds, sprinkle some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro over the shrimp. It’ll not only add a vibrant touch of color but also bring a burst of freshness to the dish.
  • Play with Presentation: Let’s make it look as good as it tastes! Consider serving your Louisiana BBQ Shrimp in a large, shallow bowl or on a platter. Sprinkle it with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for that extra wow factor. Trust me, it’ll be irresistible!

With these expert tips, you’re all set to create shrimp perfection in your kitchen. Enjoy! 👍

FAQs

Why is New Orleans BBQ shrimp called “barbecue” when it’s baked?

So, you might be scratching your head, wondering why in the world they call it “BBQ Shrimp” when there’s no grill involved. We get it. So here’s the inside scoop:

This mouthwatering dish hails from the vibrant city of New Orleans, where they seriously know their stuff when it comes to incredible food. Now, here’s the twist: when they say “barbecue” in this case, they’re not talking about the cooking method. No need to fire up the grill here! Instead, they’re all about the mind-blowing flavors and tantalizing spiciness that make this dish a true standout.

The name “barbecue shrimp” has its roots in New Orleans, where it gained popularity and stole the hearts (and tastebuds) of many. The shrimp are lovingly prepared by baking or sautéing them in a flavor-packed sauce. We’re talking butter, garlic, and an ensemble of seasonings that create a sauce bursting with richness, tanginess, and a hint of smokiness that’ll remind you of those classic barbecue sauces.

But why the “barbecue” label, you ask? Well, it’s all about those saucy similarities! The flavors in the shrimp-cooking sauce carry a touch of that unmistakable barbecue sauce vibe. And let’s not forget, the dish itself is bold, spicy, and filled with that finger-licking goodness that you’d find at a top-notch barbecue joint.

So, even though it’s baked, Louisiana BBQ shrimp is all about celebrating those incredible flavors and giving a nod to the world of barbecue. Trust us, this dish is a true gem that has become a beloved favorite in the amazing cuisine of New Orleans and beyond!

What should I serve with Cajun BBQ shrimp?

Best served with French bread baquettes! Provide crusty French bread or garlic bread on the side. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious Cajun sauce from the shrimp.

More Seafood Recipes

If y’all tried this sumptuous recipe for Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, holler and let us know how it turned out for you by giving us a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and commenting below. You can also always feel free to tag us (@creamcheeseandlemonsqueeze) in your social media posts so we can cheer you on.

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XO,

Ashley & Anna

Cajun BBQ Shrimp

With just six essential ingredients (seven, if you count the irresistible crusty bread 🥖 to sop up all the juicy goodness), and a mere 10 minutes of active prep, you'll have a mouthwatering appetizer or a protein-packed addition to your favorite pastas, salads, and so much more.
Print Pin Rate
Course: Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Cajun
Keyword: Seafood
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 1117kcal

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb shrimp
  • 1/3 cup minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 stick butter
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • 2 tsp Tony's Chachere's seasoning
  • 1 loaf french bread Reising's Poor Boy Bread

Instructions

  • Cut stick of butter into 8 pieces
  • Mix olive oil and minced garlic
  • Place butter and olive oil mixture in baking dish size of your choice ( 7×9 or 9×12)
  • Rinse shrimp through water until water is perfectly clear
  • Add shrimp to baking dish and add white pepper and Tony's
  • Bake 20- 25 mins on 375 degrees – Bake until mixture comes to a boil
  • Slice french bread in small baquette size and bake for 5 mins
  • Serve shrimp appetizer with french bread baquettes

Notes

  • Choose High-Quality Shrimp: Go for the good stuff! Look out for fresh, high-quality shrimp that have a firm texture, a mild aroma, and a translucent appearance. If you can, grab shrimp with the shells on because they bring even more flavor to the party. If you can’t find any in the fresh seafood section, there’s nothing wrong with frozen!
  • Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the flavors mingle by giving your shrimp a little 30 minute rest before cooking. This gives the garlic, olive oil, white pepper, and Tony Chachere’s seasoning a chance to work their magic and infuse the shrimp with mouthwatering taste.
  • Control the Cooking Time: Shrimp are quick little guys, so don’t let them overcook and turn rubbery. Keep a watchful eye on them! Once they turn a beautiful pink color and curl into a cute “C” shape, they’re good to go. 
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your shrimp some breathing room! Avoid overcrowding the pan, so they can cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelization. If things get too cramped, they might end up steaming instead of getting that fantastic sear you’re looking for.
Sop Up the Goodness: You don’t want to miss out on any of that amazing sauce! Serving the shrimp with crusty bread is the way to go; it’ll soak up all the juicy goodness.

Nutrition

Serving: 2g | Calories: 1117kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 101g | Saturated Fat: 37g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 52g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 487mg | Sodium: 639mg | Potassium: 744mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.5g | Vitamin A: 2246IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 205mg | Iron: 2mg

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