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Shrimp Cocktail Recipe with the Best Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 89 reviews
  • Author: Rafael
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

This Shrimp Cocktail Recipe features perfectly baked shrimp paired with a tangy, spicy homemade cocktail sauce. The shrimp are seasoned simply and baked to juicy pink perfection, then chilled and served with a zesty sauce made from ketchup, chili sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce for a classic, elegant appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 2 lbs raw shrimp
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon (cut into 4 wedges to serve, optional)

Cocktail Sauce

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup mild chili sauce (such as Heinz)
  • 3–4 Tbsp prepared horseradish (or to taste)
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed, or to taste)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco, or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Thaw the shrimp according to the package instructions. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry completely with paper towels to remove excess moisture for best texture when baking.
  2. Season the Shrimp: Place the shrimp on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper evenly over them. Stir gently to coat all shrimp with oil and seasoning, then arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
  3. Bake the Shrimp: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake the shrimp on the prepared sheet for 8-10 minutes, watching closely until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Test one shrimp by cutting or tasting to ensure doneness. Remove promptly from the oven to prevent overcooking; transfer shrimp to a serving platter immediately.
  4. Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a bowl, combine ketchup, mild chili sauce, prepared horseradish, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Adjust horseradish and hot sauce amounts to your preferred level of spiciness, mixing well to blend all flavors.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the cocktail sauce and shrimp separately and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight to enhance the flavors and serve chilled. When ready to serve, optionally garnish with lemon wedges for added zest.

Notes

  • Ensure the shrimp are patted dry before seasoning to help them bake evenly and develop better texture.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the cocktail sauce.
  • Adjust horseradish and hot sauce to your preferred spice level, adding more for a spicy kick or less for a milder sauce.
  • Serve shrimp chilled for a refreshing appetizer, ideal for warm weather or holiday gatherings.
  • Do not overcook shrimp as they become rubbery; they should just turn pink and firm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Shrimp cocktail, baked shrimp recipe, cocktail sauce, appetizer, easy seafood recipe, party appetizer

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Find it online: https://tastewithrafael.com/shrimp-cocktail-recipe-with-the-best-sauce-recipe/