Zesty Old Bay Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Summer barbecues reach new heights with this incredible oven-roasted shrimp cocktail with Old Bay that promises serious flavor.

Coastal kitchens buzz with excitement over such a delightful seafood dish.

Succulent shrimp get perfectly seasoned through a simple technique anyone can master.

Fragrant spices dance across plump shellfish, creating an irresistible aroma that signals deliciousness ahead.

Minimal prep work means maximum enjoyment for hungry guests wanting something spectacular.

Perfectly crisp edges and tender centers make this recipe a standout at any gathering.

Seafood lovers will absolutely adore how quickly this crowd-pleasing appetizer comes together with minimal effort.

FAQs

• What makes Old Bay seasoning special in this recipe?

Old Bay adds a signature Chesapeake Bay seafood flavor with its blend of celery salt, paprika, and other spices that perfectly complement shrimp’s natural sweetness.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure they roast properly and don’t release excess moisture during cooking.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

Absolutely! Shrimp are low in calories, high in protein, and packed with nutrients like selenium and omega-3 fatty acids, making this a nutritious appetizer or main dish.

What Makes Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay Special

• Master Flavor Fusion: Old Bay seasoning transforms ordinary shrimp into a zesty, mouthwatering dish that bursts with classic seafood restaurant-quality taste.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: Oven-roasting ensures perfectly cooked shrimp every single time, eliminating the guesswork and potential for overcooking.
• Quick Kitchen Win: From prep to plate, this recipe delivers restaurant-style appetizer in minimal steps, making it ideal for spontaneous gatherings or unexpected guests.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Serve hot or chilled, making it perfect for game day, cocktail parties, family dinners, or casual weekend snacking with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients for Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail

• Shrimp: Large, fresh seafood that serves as the star protein of this classic appetizer.

• Old Bay Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Flavorful spices that create a zesty and aromatic coating for the shrimp.

• Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings adhere to the shrimp and promotes even roasting.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Lemon Wedges: Provides a bright, citrusy accent to the dish.

• Ketchup, Horseradish, Worcestershire Sauce, Hot Sauce, Lemon Juice: Classic combination that creates a tangy and spicy dipping sauce for the roasted shrimp.

How to Roast Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 400F (200C) and prepare for deliciousness.

Step 2: Season the Seafood

• Olive oil
• Old Bay seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Massage the seasonings into the shrimp until every morsel is perfectly dressed.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the shrimp in a single, beautiful layer. No crowding allowed!

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven and roast for 8-10 minutes. Watch for the magical moment when shrimp turn from translucent to a lovely pink color.

Step 5: Whip Up the Cocktail Sauce

While shrimp are roasting, quickly mix the cocktail sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside and let the flavors mingle.

Step 6: Cool and Rest

Remove the shrimp from the oven and let them rest for a few moments. They’ll be hot and need a quick breather.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the shrimp with fresh lemon wedges and a generous dollop of cocktail sauce. Serve warm or chilled for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Pro Tips for Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail

• Check shrimp at 8 minutes to maintain tender, juicy texture without becoming rubbery.
• Gently massage seasonings into shrimp before roasting to ensure even and deep flavor distribution.
• Use parchment paper for crisp edges and easy cleanup, preventing shrimp from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Modify Old Bay quantity based on personal heat preference, adding more or less to suit individual tastes.
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over roasted shrimp just before serving to brighten the overall flavor profile.

Variations for Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay

• Cajun Spice Swap: Replace Old Bay with homemade Cajun seasoning for a spicier, more robust flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Substitute Old Bay with dried oregano, thyme, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use a salt-free herb blend instead of Old Bay to reduce sodium content while maintaining rich flavor.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Serve shrimp with a low-carb remoulade sauce made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped pickles instead of traditional cocktail sauce.

Pairings for Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail

Select crisp, chilled white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complement the shrimp’s delicate flavor and cut through the zesty cocktail sauce.

Craft a citrus-infused gin and tonic with fresh lime garnish, which brightens the seafood’s Old Bay seasoning and provides a tangy counterpoint.

Serve alongside light, crunchy accompaniments like herbed crostini or cucumber rounds to add textural contrast and cleanse the palate between bites.

Prepare a chilled craft beer like a wheat ale or light lager that enhances the shrimp’s spicy undertones and provides a clean, crisp drinking experience.

Storing Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Properly

• Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
• Preheat oven to 275F. Spread shrimp on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent overcooking. Warm for 4-5 minutes until heated through, checking to avoid rubbery texture.
• Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 15-second intervals, checking temperature to prevent overcooking. Stop heating once warm.

Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Old Bay Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Old Bay seasoning elevates classic shrimp cocktail to coastal perfection with its signature zesty blend. Succulent oven-roasted shrimp deliver a quick, elegant appetizer that brings marine flavors right to your plate.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cocktail Sauce Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 400F (200C) and position a rack in the middle.
2. In a spacious mixing vessel, lavishly coat the shrimp with olive oil, sprinkling Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each morsel is thoroughly seasoned.
3. Meticulously spread the seasoned shrimp across a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a single, uncrowded layer to promote even roasting.
4. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, watching for the telltale transformation to a vibrant pink and translucent texture.
5. Simultaneously, craft the cocktail sauce by combining the ingredients in a compact bowl, allowing the flavors to meld while the shrimp roast.
6. Once the shrimp emit a delicate aroma and display a perfect coral hue, carefully extract the baking sheet from the oven.
7. Allow the shrimp to rest momentarily, cooling slightly to an ideal serving temperature.
8. Plate the roasted shrimp with zesty lemon wedges and the prepared cocktail sauce, creating an inviting presentation for immediate enjoyment.

Notes

• Prevent Overcooking: Watch shrimp closely during roasting, as they can quickly turn rubbery and tough if left in the oven too long.
• Sizing Matters: Choose medium to large shrimp for consistent cooking and best texture, ensuring even seasoning coverage.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust Old Bay seasoning quantity based on personal heat preference, adding more or less for desired kick.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast shrimp in advance and chill for up to 24 hours, perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute cooking stress.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 115 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 17 g
• Cholesterol: 190 mg