If you’re ready to level up your appetizer game with something that’s equal parts classic and crave-worthy, Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is the answer. Juicy shrimp roasted to perfection, kissed with that unmistakable Old Bay flavor, and paired with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce – it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering. The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying the party and less time in the kitchen. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this shrimp cocktail is about to become a new house favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is how a handful of well-chosen ingredients delivers big flavors and gorgeous presentation. Every ingredient serves a purpose, from plump, fresh shrimp to the classic zing of horseradish in the cocktail sauce.
- Large shrimp (16–20 count): The star of the show! Using large shrimp yields perfect bite-size pieces with a satisfyingly juicy texture.
- Olive oil: Helps the Old Bay seasoning adhere to the shrimp and keeps them moist while roasting.
- Old Bay seasoning: The classic combination of spices gives the dish its signature punchy, savory flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
- Lemon (halved): Roasting the lemon alongside the shrimp enhances its sweetness and adds a gentle citrus hit when squeezed over the finished dish.
- Ketchup: A staple base for homemade cocktail sauce, bringing both tang and sweetness.
- Prepared horseradish: Adds that sharp, peppery kick which makes shrimp cocktail so memorable.
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the complexity of the cocktail sauce with its umami richness.
- Lemon juice: Brightens up the cocktail sauce and gives it a fresh, citrusy balance.
- Hot sauce (optional): A few dashes will wake up your taste buds and bring extra heat if you like it spicy.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and heightening every flavor in the dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle just before serving adds freshness and a beautiful pop of color.
How to Make Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by firing up your oven to 425°F. Give yourself a little head start by letting the oven come up to temperature while you get your shrimp and ingredients ready. The high heat is key for tender shrimp that caramelize ever-so-slightly around the edges.
Step 2: Toss the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled, deveined shrimp with olive oil and Old Bay seasoning. Make sure every shrimp is glistening with oil and well-coated in those fragrant spices. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also ensures each shrimp cooks evenly and stays succulent.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the shrimp out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. Place the halved lemon, cut side down, right on the baking sheet next to the shrimp. This way, the lemon will get lightly caramelized and extra juicy as it roasts.
Step 4: Roast the Shrimp
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye – you want the shrimp to be pink, firm, and cooked through but not overdone. They’ll finish quickly, so don’t wander too far!
Step 5: Make the Cocktail Sauce
While the shrimp roast, whip up the cocktail sauce in a small bowl. Stir together ketchup, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a couple dashes of hot sauce if you like a spicy kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s fast, fresh, and tastes worlds better than store-bought.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
When the shrimp are perfect, let them cool for a few minutes right on the baking sheet. Squeeze the roasted lemon halves over the shrimp for a burst of mellow citrus, then shower them with chopped parsley. Arrange the shrimp alongside your homemade cocktail sauce and get ready to wow your guests (or just yourself) with this easy Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay.
How to Serve Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay
Garnishes
Nothing says “party” quite like a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley! It brings a pop of vibrant green and a subtle herby lift that makes Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay as pretty as it is delicious. Don’t forget that extra squeeze of roasted lemon for a finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This shrimp cocktail pairs beautifully with other appetizers like crisp crudités, sliced avocado, or salty potato chips. For a classic cocktail hour spread, serve with a cold glass of white wine or a citrusy spritz. If you’re planning a meal, a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread will round things out without overpowering the shrimp’s flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For your next gathering, pile the shrimp on a platter over a bed of crushed ice with lemon wedges and parsley. Or, go fancy and serve each shrimp on a tiny skewer with a spoonful of sauce for easy one-bite appetizers. However you share it, Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is always a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have a few shrimp left? Tuck them into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to two days. For best flavor, keep the shrimp and cocktail sauce separate until you’re ready to enjoy again.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay, as the texture of cooked shrimp can become rubbery once thawed. If you must, freeze the shrimp spread in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to a month. Just know the texture may not be quite as luscious after freezing.
Reheating
If you prefer your shrimp warm, gently reheat them in a 300°F oven just until heated through, about 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can dry shrimp out. Of course, they’re also fantastic served chilled straight from the fridge!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay?
Absolutely! If starting with frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water, then pat them thoroughly dry before tossing with olive oil and Old Bay. Dry shrimp roast best and soak in the seasonings.
Is there a substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If you’re out of Old Bay, try a blend of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne for a similar profile. However, real Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay gets its special flavor from the original seasoning mix, so use it if you can!
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
You bet! Roast the shrimp up to a day ahead and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, arrange them on a platter, squeeze lemon over, and add parsley. The cocktail sauce can also be made ahead and stored in a sealed container.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is super easy to scale. Just spread the shrimp out on two baking sheets so they roast instead of steam. Double or triple the sauce as needed and keep extra shrimp chilled until party time.
What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?
Gently pull off the shell, leaving the tail attached for presentation. Make a shallow cut along the shrimp’s back, then use the tip of a knife to lift out the dark vein. Rinse and pat dry for perfectly clean, ready-to-season shrimp.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing starter that’s both incredibly easy and downright irresistible, give Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay a spot on your table. Every bite bursts with bold flavor and bright citrus – and the whole thing comes together in a flash. Try it once, and you’ll wonder how you ever entertained without it!
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Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic shrimp cocktail, this oven-roasted version features succulent shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and served with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce. Perfect for entertaining or a special appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined with tails on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- A few dashes of hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with olive oil and Old Bay seasoning in a bowl until evenly coated.
- Roast the Shrimp: Arrange shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the halved lemon, cut side down, on the sheet. Roast for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink, firm, and just cooked through.
- Prepare the Cocktail Sauce: Mix together ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Once shrimp are done, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Squeeze roasted lemon juice over shrimp and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm or chilled with the cocktail sauce on the side.
Notes
- You can chill the shrimp after roasting for a more traditional shrimp cocktail experience.
- Adjust the horseradish and hot sauce in the cocktail sauce to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4–5 shrimp with sauce
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
