If you love a classic shrimp cocktail for a party appetizer, you’re going to be so excited about this roasted shrimp cocktail recipe! This is an appetizer that is truly timeless, and loved by so many – but now you can make your own in the simplest possible way.
Roasting your shrimp gives it a deeper, more caramelized flavor that you’re going to adore! Learn why roasted shrimp cocktail is better than the rest.
In my years of experience as a caterer, there was one thing I knew for sure: lots of people love a good shrimp cocktail. In fact, it’s a surefire success story for a party appetizer!
One of the misconceptions about this dish, though, is that it’s complicated to make. Often, people think buying a premade shrimp cocktail tray is the only way to go.
I’m all for a shortcut, trust me! However, I think this roasted shrimp cocktail is so easy to make, that it’s worth the tiny bit of extra effort. I hope you give it a try and agree!
Traditionally, shrimp for shrimp cocktail is gently poached in a variety of herbs and seasonings. While this is of course delicious, it’s a little more time intensive and can easily result in overcooked shrimp.
The process of roasting the shrimp gives them a slightly caramelized flavor, and bonus!? It’s a mostly hands-off process, giving you time to work on other things when you’re hosting guests.
Why You’ll Love this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail
- Easy to make
- Minimal ingredients
- Great for parties
- Low carb
- High protein
Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Ingredients
- Shrimp – Aim for approximately 2 pounds of shrimp. This is generally around 16 larger shrimp. The fresher, the better, of course.
- Olive oil – A great quality extra virgin olive oil really shines here.
- Kosher salt – large flakes add a ton of flavor.
- Black pepper – fresh cracked.
Variations
- Add Blackened Seasoning to your shrimp before cooking
- Add Lemon Pepper Seasoning
How to Make this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Devein if necessary.
- Place shrimp on a sheet pain with the olive oil, salt and pepper and spread them out in a single layer.
- Roast for 9-10 minutes, until pink, firm and cooked all the way through.
- Set shrimp aside to allow to cool. Serve with this amazing homemade cocktail sauce.
Watch the video where Julie will walk you through each step of this easy recipe. You will find a collection of recipe videos right here on our website with corresponding recipes.
Tips
- Buy high quality shrimp. In simple recipes like this one, this is the main star of the show.
- Be sure to squeeze with fresh lemon! Lemon really adds a bold, citrus fresh layer to your shrimp.
- Serve this shrimp cocktail traditionally, near a bowl of cocktail sauce for dipping. Or, try an elevated presentation, using these shot glasses for individual servings!
Scaling up, down or substituting? You’ll love this printable Measurement Conversion Chart!
Frequently Asked Questions
The iconic shrimp cocktail is believed to have been born in the late 19th century or early 20th century. Combinations of shellfish like oysters and spicier tomato sauces were served as appetizers at fancy Victorian and Edwardian era events.
A single serving of shrimp cocktail (two large shrimp) can come in at under 100 calories each! They are a great source of lean protein and fit into a Whole 30, low carb or Keto lifestyle.
The vein of your shrimp is right along the back. Using a skewer, point the end under the vein (somewhere in the middle) and pull it up towards you. This lifts the vein up and away, allowing you to pull it out with your hands.
How to Store
- At Room Temperature – Shrimp can sit out for up to two hours while serving. You can place it over ice on a tray, to keep it ice cold as guests enjoy!
- Refrigerate – You can refrigerate your shrimp cocktail for up to two days before or after serving.
- Freeze – You can freeze your roasted shrimp cocktail! In fact, you can freeze any cooked shrimp to enjoy for later. Flash freeze the shrimp by placing them in the freezer in a single layer on a baking sheet, and then place in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
More Seafood Ideas
Dietary Considerations
- Gluten Free
- Dairy Free
- Nut Free
More Seafood Inspiration
- Lemon Pepper Shrimp
- Tequila Lime Shrimp
- Side Dishes for Fish
- Pineapple Shrimp Skewers
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Kabobs
Roasted Shrimp Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 pounds shrimp Approximately 16 larger shrimp
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- lemon slices optional, freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Devein if necessary.
- Place shrimp on a sheet pain with the olive oil, salt and pepper and spread them out in a single layer.
- Roast for 9-10 minutes, until pink, firm and cooked all the way through.
- Set shrimp aside to allow to cool. Serve with cocktail sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Julie’s Tips
Variations
- Add Blackened Seasoning to your shrimp before cooking
- Add Lemon Pepper Seasoning
How to Store
- At Room Temperature – Shrimp can sit out for up to two hours while serving.
- Refrigerate – You can refrigerate your shrimp cocktail for up to two days before or after serving.
- Freeze -Flash freeze the shrimp by placing them in the freezer in a single layer on a baking sheet, and then place in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.
