Name: Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 lbs shell-on jumbo (or colossal) shrimp, deveined; 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter (preferably Kerrygold); 2 tablespoons Creole Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought); ½ cup clam juice or fish stock; ¼ cup dry white wine (such as sauvignon blanc); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 small lemon, zested and juiced; 1-3 dashes Louisiana-style hot sauce; 1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley; Warm crusty French bread, for serving

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and a touch of Southern charm, you’re going to fall in love with this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe. It’s not your typical BBQ chicken or ribs; instead, succulent jumbo shrimp soak up a rich, buttery sauce seasoned with Creole spices, zest, and a hint of heat, all baked to perfection. This dish combines effortless elegance with down-home comfort, making it a sure crowd-pleaser whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with many raw shrimp that have a greyish-pink color and translucent texture, tails still on, placed on a white marbled surface. Around the bowl are several small white bowls holding chopped green herbs, dark soy sauce, and beige liquid, plus a glass jar with a mixture of reddish-brown spices and a wooden spoon inside it. Also visible are a bright yellow lemon, a glass container with a clear liquid, a white plate with two sticks of soft pale yellow butter, and a bottle of Louisiana hot sauce in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients come together with simplicity yet power, giving you that authentic New Orleans flavor punch. Each one plays a special role, balancing richness, spice, acidity, and texture to make this baked shrimp dish unforgettable.

2 lbs shell-on jumbo shrimp, deveined: Using shell-on enhances flavor and keeps the shrimp juicy during baking.
1 ½ cups unsalted butter: The richness and silkiness of butter create the sauce’s decadent base; Kerrygold is my go-to for deep flavor.
2 tablespoons Creole Cajun seasoning: This blend is the soul of the recipe, bringing authentic heat and seasoning complexity.
½ cup clam juice (or fish stock): Adds a subtle briny depth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
¼ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc): A splash of acidity to brighten and balance the rich butter sauce.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Contributes savory umami notes with a hint of tanginess.
1 small lemon, zested & juiced: Fresh citrus brightness that lifts and energizes the entire dish.
1-3 dashes Louisiana-style hot sauce: Provides just the right kick of spice without overpowering the other flavors.
1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley: A fresh herb finish to add color and a hint of earthiness.
Warm crusty French bread: Absolutely essential for soaking up every drop of that phenomenal buttery sauce.

How to Make Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water then pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step ensures the shrimp cook evenly and the sauce clings perfectly. Using shell-on shrimp is key here to lock in moisture and flavor during baking.

Step 2: Make the Rich and Spicy Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat until sizzling, which signals it’s hot enough to bring out all those luscious flavors. Add your Creole Cajun seasoning along with clam juice, white wine, Worcestershire sauce, lemon zest and juice, and a few dashes of that iconic Louisiana hot sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly. Instead of stirring, gently shake the skillet to keep the sauce perfectly emulsified and velvety.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Arrange the prepped shrimp in a 9×13-inch baking dish, then lovingly pour that fragrant, buttery sauce right over them, making sure every shrimp gets coated. Pop it into your preheated oven at 450°F. Bake, uncovered, for 10 minutes initially, then stir the shrimp gently to ensure even cooking and sauce distribution. Bake an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn that beautiful pink and are firm but tender.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once done, transfer the shrimp and all that glorious buttery sauce to a large, deep serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh minced parsley for an inviting burst of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve immediately with warm, crusty French bread to mop up every delicious drop. This is comfort food perfected!

How to Serve Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish filled with many cooked shrimp in a reddish-brown sauce, sprinkled with chopped green herbs on top. The shrimp are arranged close together, with their curved orange shells and tails visible, soaking in the sauce. Three pieces of torn white bread with sauce soaked into the middle rest on the shrimp. A black spoon is partly submerged in the sauce on the bottom left of the dish. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with part of a green cloth visible near the bottom. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds just the right touch of freshness and a subtle herbal note. If you want to brighten it further, a light sprinkle of extra lemon zest right before serving adds an enticing zing. A few thinly sliced green onions can also give a lovely pop of color and a mild onion sweetness.

Side Dishes

This Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe shines when paired with simple, complementary sides. Think buttery grits for that real Southern soul food vibe, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or even roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. And of course, the star side is crusty French bread, perfect for savoring the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, try serving the shrimp directly in mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls for that cozy, homestyle feel. You can also lay them over a bed of creamy polenta or even garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting, elevated twist. Another fun idea is turning the garlicky sauce-soaked shrimp into sliders with soft buns and crisp slaw for a Louisiana-inspired sandwich night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp will continue to absorb the sauce flavors overnight, making the next meal just as tasty. Just be sure to keep the bread separate so it doesn’t get soggy.

Freezing

Freezing this shrimp dish isn’t ideal because shrimp can become rubbery and the sauce texture might change upon thawing. If you must freeze, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible, and use within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the shrimp and separate the buttery sauce. Add a splash of white wine or clam juice if the sauce looks thick or dry.

FAQs

Can I use peeled shrimp instead of shell-on shrimp?

You can use peeled shrimp but cooking with the shells on imparts more flavor and helps keep the shrimp juicy while baking. If you do peel them, be gentle to avoid overcooking and drying out the shrimp.

What makes this dish ‘New Orleans’ style?

The use of Creole Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and Louisiana hot sauce combined with buttery richness gives this dish its authentic New Orleans BBQ Shrimp flair, capturing the city’s signature bold, layered flavors.

Is the hot sauce very spicy?

The recipe calls for 1 to 3 dashes of Louisiana-style hot sauce, which adds warmth without overwhelming heat. Feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance to keep the sauce balanced and delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The shrimp and sauce are naturally gluten-free, just be sure to check your Creole seasoning and Worcestershire sauce labels for any gluten-containing additives. Replace the French bread with a gluten-free alternative to complete the meal.

What wine pairs well with this shrimp dish?

A crisp, citrusy white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully to complement the spicy, buttery sauce and cleanse your palate between bites.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about this Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe that makes it a keeper dish for seafood lovers and anyone who appreciates bold yet comforting Southern flavors. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests, with that buttery, spicy sauce begging for every last lick of bread. I can’t wait for you to try it and add a little New Orleans joy to your table!

Baked New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need