Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- The Story Behind This Barbecue Shrimp
- Why This Recipe Works
- Tips for Serving the Perfect Cajun Dish
- How to Make It Your Own
- Why You’ll Love This New Orleans Classic
- Betty’s Final Thoughts
Key Takeaways
This barbecue shrimp recipe is rich, spicy, and loaded with buttery Cajun flavor. It’s a quick and easy seafood dinner that works for weeknights or entertaining. You only need simple pantry spices, fresh shrimp, and a few flavor-boosters to recreate a restaurant-quality dish at home.

The Story Behind This Barbecue Shrimp
Inspired by the bold flavors of New Orleans, this barbecue shrimp recipe from Betty Cooks was created by Betty to bring Southern charm into your kitchen. While it doesn’t include any barbecue sauce, the term “barbecue shrimp” refers to the rich, buttery, and spicy sauce the shrimp simmers in—a Louisiana staple. From the first sizzle in the skillet to the final buttery bite, it’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into a flavor-packed feast.

Why This Barbecue Shrimp Recipe Works
What makes this barbecue shrimp stand out is its simplicity and depth of flavor. A handful of common spices like paprika, cayenne, and oregano blend into a savory coating that packs a punch. Combined with garlic, lemon, and hot sauce, the shrimp soak up every drop of flavor. This recipe fits right into any rotation of easy recipes or dinner recipes, making it a go-to for anyone who loves spice and seafood.

Tips for Serving the Perfect Spicy Shrimp Dinner
When serving barbecue shrimp, make sure you have plenty of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Don’t overcook the shrimp—just a few minutes in the pan keeps them juicy and tender. This dish also pairs wonderfully with rice or creamy grits, depending on your mood. It’s an ideal seafood dinner that’s both elegant and comforting.

How to Make It Your Own Cajun Classic
You can easily tweak this barbecue shrimp recipe to suit your preferences. Add more cayenne for heat, a splash of beer for depth, or even swap in jumbo shrimp. For a lighter version, reduce the butter slightly and serve over steamed veggies. However you adjust it, the main keyword remains the same: this is the ultimate barbecue shrimp experience.
Why You’ll Love This New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp
This recipe captures everything we love about New Orleans cooking—big flavor, simple ingredients, and that unmistakable Cajun charm. Whether you’re new to Southern cuisine or a longtime fan, barbecue shrimp will win you over. Plus, it’s a great way to expand your go-to list of shrimp recipes and Cajun recipes.
Betty’s Final Thoughts
Betty believes every home cook deserves to make dishes that feel like they came from a restaurant—and this barbecue shrimp recipe proves it. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Visit more delicious creations at Betty Cooks to keep exploring quick, spicy, and soul-warming meals!


New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (like Tabasco)
- 2 tablespoons water
- Chopped scallions or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty French bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil and all dry spices (paprika through thyme) until well coated. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, hot sauce, and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the seasoned shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until just pink and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes.
- Serve hot with sauce poured over and crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with scallions or parsley if desired.

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