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
Scale
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.
