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Juicy, savory, and easy to eat, this Peel and Eat Shrimp recipe is an addictive partner to any cocktail sauce. Make them for your next party or for dinner, and watch them disappear!

peel and eat shrimp on plate ready to eat

Old Bay Shrimp

Peel and Eat Shrimp is a delightful dish that seafood enthusiasts can’t resist. With a combination of fresh shrimp and a blend of flavorful ingredients, it’s a dining experience you won’t forget.

First and foremost, the Old Bay Shrimp recipe is a timeless classic. Utilizing the renowned Old Bay seasoning, the shrimp is cooked to perfection, infused with a blend of herbs and spices that tantalizes the taste buds. The beer shrimp aspect adds a unique twist, giving it a rich and robust flavor.

Adding light beer to the recipe ensures that the shrimp absorb the luscious taste, giving them a texture and flavor unlike any other. The Old Bay Shrimp Boil recipe is popular not only for its delightful taste but also for its simplicity.

With only a few ingredients like unpeeled raw shrimp, light beer, water, salted butter, Old Bay seasoning, optional lemon wedges, and cocktail sauce for serving, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among many.

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatile nature. It’s perfect for family gatherings, weekend parties, or a simple meal with loved ones. The beer shrimp technique adds depth to the flavor profile, while the Old Bay seasoning brings out the natural flavors of the shrimp.

This Old Bay Shrimp recipe, with the unique touch of beer shrimp, offers a delightful culinary experience. The ease of preparation and the tantalizing flavors make it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a memorable seafood meal.

Whether you’re new to the world of seafood or a seasoned enthusiast, the recipe for Peel and Eat Shrimp is sure to leave a lasting impression. Join the many who have fallen in love with this delectable dish and discover what makes it a timeless classic.

shrimp being cooked in pot

Peel and Eat Shrimp: Ingredients & Substitutions

To make Peel and Eat Shrimp, you will need …

Ingredients

  • raw shrimp – large, unpeeled. You’ll need about a pound.
  • light beer, butter, water – you’ll boil your shrimp in this mixture. The beer gives these shrimp a mild hops-like flavor that adds to the seasoning.
  • old Bay seasoning – the legend, y’all!! Old Bay seasoning is made by the company McCormick here in the US, and it’s a special savory-spicy-sweet blend of 18 or so herbs and spices. You can use it on almost anything (especially if you ask its fans), but it tastes best on seafood.
  • lemon wedges and cocktail sauce are optional for serving, but I love a good cocktail sauce.
looking down onto a basket full of peel and eat shrimp

How to make Peel and Eat Shrimp

Add ingredients to the pan. Place the shrimp in a large (4-qt.) saucepan. Add the beer, water, butter, and seasoning.

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Cook. Cover the pan and heat over medium heat until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Cool slightly before serving. Remove the shrimp from the pan and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Serve. Serve with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce, if desired.

closeup of a hand holding a single cooked shrimp

Peel and Eat Shrimp: FAQs

➡️ How long does it take to make boiled shrimp with Old Bay?

Only about 12-15 minutes altogether, including cooking time. This is a super fast meal or snack idea!

➡️ Can I use any beer for this recipe?

Most light beers work well. It adds a subtle flavor without overpowering the shrimp.

➡️ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them properly before following the recipe.

➡️ What side dishes go well with Peel and Eat Shrimp?

Common side dishes include salad, roasted vegetables, rice, or bread. The choices are versatile, allowing for a balanced meal.

➡️ Is Peel and Eat Shrimp healthy?

Yes, shrimp are low in calories and high in protein, making this dish a nutritious option. The addition of beer and butter may add calories, so consider portion control.

➡️ What’s the best way to serve Peel and Eat Shrimp?

It can be served hot or at room temperature, often with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce, allowing guests to peel and enjoy as they like.

➡️ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, the alcohol in the beer cooks off, leaving only flavor behind. It’s suitable for family meals, but always consider individual taste preferences.

➡️ Can I make Peel and Eat Shrimp ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the shrimp in advance and reheat before serving. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp during reheating.

➡️ What’s the best shrimp size for the recipe?

Large shrimp are commonly used as they provide a meaty texture and are easier to peel.

cooked shrimp on a white plate

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peel and eat shrimp on plate
5 from 1 vote
Servings: 4 servings

Peel and Eat Shrimp

By Jamie Sherman
Juicy, savory, and easy to eat, this Peel and Eat Shrimp recipe is an addictive partner to any cocktail sauce. Make them for your next party or for dinner, and watch them disappear!
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 7 minutes
Total: 12 minutes

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Equipment

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb. large unpeeled raw shrimp
  • 1 cup light beer
  • 1 cup water
  • 4 tablespoon salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • lemon wedges and cocktail sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions 

  • Place the shrimp in a large (4-qt.) saucepan. Add the beer, water, butter, and seasoning.
  • Cover the pan and heat over medium heat until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  • Remove the shrimp from the pan and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
  • Serve with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce, if desired.

Notes

  • Most light beers work well for this recipe. It adds a subtle flavor without overpowering the shrimp.
  • If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before following the recipe
  • .Large shrimp are commonly used as they provide a meaty texture and are easier to peel.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcal, Carbohydrates: 2g, Protein: 23g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 3g, Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 213mg, Sodium: 231mg, Potassium: 329mg, Fiber: 0.2g, Sugar: 0.1g, Vitamin A: 403IU, Vitamin C: 0.2mg, Calcium: 100mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Jamie

Jamie Sherman founded Love Bakes Good Cakes in February 2012. She is a self-taught home cook passionate about sharing easy, delicious, and family-friendly recipes. From comforting classics to irresistible desserts, I believe homemade food brings people together. Join me on my journey of creating and sharing meals that bring joy to every table!

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5 from 1 vote

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1 Comment

  1. Jamie says:

    5 stars
    Delicious! This was perfect for one of our meals on our beach trip! Served it with the colelsaw and Southern cornbread, also from this site.