Emeril BBQ Shrimp recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bursting with the bold flavors of New Orleans. This dish is all about succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, spicy, and buttery sauce that’s as comforting as it is vibrant.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or just spice up your weeknight routine, this recipe delivers big time on both flavor and flair. So, let’s dive into the magic of this iconic Emeril Lagasse’s BBQ shrimp recipe and find out how to bring a taste of the Big Easy to your kitchen.

What is Emeril BBQ Shrimp Recipe?

Emeril’s BBQ Shrimp is a classic New Orleans dish that features large, succulent shrimp cooked in a rich and zesty sauce. The sauce is typically made with a combination of butter, garlic, spices, and a splash of beer, creating a decadent, creamy base with a kick of flavor.

Often garnished with lemon and parsley, this dish is both aromatic and deeply flavorful, embodying the bold culinary spirit of its city of origin.

Emeril’s BBQ Shrimp is a quintessential New Orleans dish that combines plump shrimp with a buttery, spicy sauce crafted from Creole seasoning, garlic, beer, and Worcestershire. This beloved recipe captures the essence of Cajun cuisine with its robust and vibrant flavors. Shrimp are briefly seared then simmered in the decadent sauce, infused with lemon and rosemary for added zest. Serve warm, with lots of fresh French or Italian bread for dipping in the butter sauce.

Here’s how to make it:

Emeril BBQ shrimp recipe

Recipe by bbqpartyzone.comCourse: Main DishCuisine: Cajun/Creole, AmericanDifficulty: Intermediate

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

400-500

kcal

Ingredients

Large shrimp: Usually kept shell-on for extra flavor.
Creole seasoning: Adds a spicy, robust flavor typical of Louisiana cuisine.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing.
Onions: Chopped, contributing a sweet, aromatic base.
Garlic: Minced, for a punch of sharp flavor.
Beer: Preferably a lager, used to deglaze the pan and add depth.
Worcestershire sauce: For a tangy, umami flavor.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity.
Rosemary: Chopped, for its fragrant, piney aroma.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce a rich, smooth texture.
Unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed, to thicken and enrich the sauce
Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
Lemon wedges: For serving, adding a fresh, zesty finish.
Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

Directions

Prep the Shrimp:
Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry. Season them generously with Creole seasoning.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and sear until they begin to turn pink, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
Pour in the beer to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and chopped rosemary. Allow the mixture to simmer until the liquid reduces by half.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the butter, one cube at a time, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish the Dish:
Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until they are heated through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

To enhance the flavor of the shrimp and make peeling easier, cook them with the shells on. The shells add depth to the sauce and protect the shrimp from overcooking, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.

What to Serve with Emeril BBQ Shrimp?

Emeril’s BBQ Shrimp is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can complement its bold flavors. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside this dish:

Crusty Bread: Essential for soaking up the delicious buttery sauce. French bread or a good sourdough would be perfect.
Grits: Creamy grits are a Southern staple that balances the spiciness of the shrimp perfectly.
Rice: White or brown rice can serve as a simple, comforting base that absorbs the sauce well.
Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the BBQ shrimp.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These will add a creamy texture and mellow garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spicy, tangy sauce.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is a sweet, juicy side that complements seafood dishes beautifully.
Steamed Vegetables: A mix of steamed broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower can add color and a touch of lightness to your meal.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a crunchy, refreshing element to the meal, balancing the richness of the shrimp.

Choosing one or a combination of these sides will make for a well-rounded meal that enhances the flavors of Emeril’s BBQ Shrimp

Conclusion

Emeril’s BBQ Shrimp encapsulates the lively spirit and rich culinary traditions of New Orleans. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings a bit of Mardi Gras to your table any day of the year.

The combination of succulent shrimp with a spicy, buttery sauce creates a memorable dining experience that’s both rustic and sophisticated.

This recipe is perfect for entertaining, offering a casual yet impressive option that’s sure to spark conversation and applause from your guests.

Remember, the key to the perfect dish lies in the quality of ingredients—fresh shrimp and the right blend of seasonings make all the difference. Serve this dish with a simple side that can absorb the delicious sauce, and you’ve got a meal that truly celebrates the flavor and flair of Cajun cooking. Enjoy the process and the feast!

Emeril BBQ Shrimp Recipe

What is Emeril BBQ Shrimp Recipe?