Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is a refreshing twist on the classic shrimp cocktail. The shrimp are roasted in the oven with a zesty, flavorful Old Bay seasoning, giving them a smoky, spicy kick. Paired with a tangy cocktail sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick appetizer or a light, satisfying snack. The roasting enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness while adding a crispy, savory coating, making it an irresistible option for any seafood lover.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp:
large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
olive oil
Old Bay seasoning
garlic powder
paprika
salt
black pepper
lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Cocktail Sauce:
ketchup
horseradish
lemon juice
Worcestershire sauce
hot sauce (optional)
salt

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that the shrimp are evenly coated.
3. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the Shrimp: Roast the shrimp in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
5. Make the Cocktail Sauce: While the shrimp are roasting, prepare the cocktail sauce by combining ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), and salt in a small bowl. Stir well to combine.
6. Serve: Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and serve immediately with the cocktail sauce and lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people as an appetizer.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture for more heat.
• Garlic Butter: Toss the roasted shrimp in melted garlic butter after baking for a rich, indulgent finish.
• Herb Blend: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley or thyme to the seasoning mix for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or briefly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work great for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before roasting.

Do I need to peel the shrimp?
It’s recommended to peel the shrimp for easier eating, but you can leave the shells on if you prefer.

Can I use a different seasoning blend?
Yes, if you don’t have Old Bay seasoning, you can use a combination of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt as an alternative.

Can I make the cocktail sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the cocktail sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the fridge for easy serving.

Conclusion

Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The smoky, spicy shrimp paired with a tangy cocktail sauce make for a satisfying appetizer or light meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a seafood treat, this recipe will undoubtedly impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

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