If you’re looking for a seafood appetizer that packs a punch of flavor and is wonderfully simple to prepare, then the Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Recipe is absolutely the way to go. This dish brings together perfectly roasted shrimp, crispy and juicy, that are bursting with the zesty and aromatic notes of Old Bay seasoning. Paired with a tangy, slightly spicy homemade cocktail sauce, it’s a fantastic twist on the classic shrimp cocktail—more vibrant, more flavorful, and just begging to be served at your next get-together or casual dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you won’t need a long list of complicated ingredients. Each one plays an essential role—from giving the shrimp their famous Old Bay kick, to creating the perfect creamy, spicy sauce for dipping—making this recipe straightforward but unforgettable.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on): Choosing large shrimp with tails on makes for easy handling and an impressive presentation.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and ensures the shrimp roast to a lovely, tender finish.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste): The star spice blend that infuses the shrimp with bold, classic Chesapeake Bay flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds mild, savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Gives a subtle smoky undertone that takes this dish up a notch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning essentials that balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): A bright citrus finish that complements the spices and freshness of the shrimp.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: The base for the cocktail sauce that brings sweetness and tanginess.
- 2 tablespoons horseradish: Brings a bold, spicy kick to the sauce—adjust to your liking.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lifts the sauce with a refreshing zest.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds subtle umami complexity to the dip.
- Dash of hot sauce (optional): For those who love a little extra heat in every bite.
How to Make Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which sets the stage for perfectly cooked shrimp every time. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup a breeze and to prevent the shrimp from sticking or burning.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika if you’re using it, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated—this seasoning blend is what promises that irresistible, savory flavor profile.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the shrimp out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Giving each piece some space allows them to roast evenly, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender rather than chewy.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Pop your shrimp into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the edges should turn a lovely pink and the flesh should become opaque. Overcooking shrimp is an easy mistake, so timing is key here for that ideal texture.
Step 5: Make the Cocktail Sauce
While the shrimp roast, mix together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce in a small bowl. This vibrant sauce offers the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy—feel free to adjust the horseradish and hot sauce amounts based on how much heat you want.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Once the shrimp are done roasting, transfer them onto a serving platter alongside lemon wedges. Don’t forget the homemade cocktail sauce—it’s essential for dipping and bringing the whole dish together.
How to Serve Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your shrimp cocktail can elevate the experience quickly. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a pop of green and refreshing aroma, while lemon wedges not only bring vibrant color but also let you squeeze a bit of brightness onto the shrimp before eating. A sprinkle of extra Old Bay on top just before serving can also amp up the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish shines wonderfully on its own as an appetizer, but pairing it with light, crisp sides like a garden salad or crunchy celery sticks can add variety and texture. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a creamy coleslaw or buttery corn on the cob. These accompaniments balance the zesty shrimp and bring more comfort to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a party, use a large glass bowl filled with crushed ice and arrange the shrimp cocktail around the edges for an elegant presentation that keeps everything chilled. For a more casual vibe, serve the shrimp in cocktail glasses with a spoonful of sauce at the bottom—this way, every bite is dipped and delicious. Even arranging the shrimp on small skewers adds fun, finger-food appeal that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover shrimp should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. They will keep well for up to two days, maintaining good texture and flavor when kept chilled, though it’s best to enjoy them as fresh as possible.
Freezing
Freezing cooked shrimp is possible but not always advisable for optimal texture in this recipe. If you must freeze, place the shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag and use within a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, but expect a slight change in texture compared to freshly roasted shrimp.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. The cocktail sauce is best served cold and fresh, so keep it chilled until ready to serve again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and roasting to ensure they cook evenly and get that nice roasted texture.
What is Old Bay seasoning?
Old Bay is a classic American spice blend often used for seafood. It features a mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, and other spices, giving dishes a unique, zesty flavor perfect for shrimp, crabs, and more.
Can I make the cocktail sauce spicier?
Definitely! Increase the horseradish and add extra hot sauce to match your desired spice level. You can even stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for an added kick.
Is it necessary to use the smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika is optional but highly recommended for that subtle smokiness it lends. If you don’t have it on hand, regular paprika or even a touch of chili powder can be substituted.
How long does it take to roast shrimp at 400°F?
Roasting shrimp at 400°F usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch for them to turn pink and opaque to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Recipe is a stellar example of how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can transform into a show-stopping appetizer. With its punchy seasoning and tangy cocktail sauce, it’s sure to become a regular favorite whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Give it a try—you might just find it’s your new go-to recipe for shrimp!
Print
Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring perfectly seasoned and roasted shrimp served with a tangy, spicy cocktail sauce. The shrimp are seasoned with classic Old Bay, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor, then roasted to juicy perfection in the oven. Paired with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce, this dish is perfect for entertaining or a quick, elegant snack.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cocktail Sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons horseradish (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Dash of hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange Shrimp on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Avoid overcooking as shrimp cook quickly and can become tough.
- Prepare Cocktail Sauce: While the shrimp roast, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using) in a small bowl. Stir well and adjust seasoning to taste, adding more horseradish for heat or ketchup for sweetness as desired.
- Serve: Arrange the roasted shrimp on a platter alongside lemon wedges and the cocktail sauce for dipping. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Keep shrimp tails on for easy handling and a nicer presentation.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice subtle smoky flavor.
- Adjust horseradish quantity in the cocktail sauce to control the spice level.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the sauce and garnish.
- Do not overcook shrimp to maintain a tender texture.
