Description
This classic Shrimp Cocktail recipe features perfectly baked shrimp served with a tangy, flavorful cocktail sauce made from ketchup, chili sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Easy to prepare and ideal for entertaining, this dish delivers a refreshing seafood appetizer with the perfect balance of spice and zest.
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, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Thaw the shrimp according to package instructions. Rinse them under cold water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Place the shrimp on a large rimmed baking sheet.
- Season the Shrimp: Drizzle the shrimp with 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Toss gently to coat all shrimp evenly and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake the Shrimp: Preheat the oven to 450˚F (232˚C). Bake the shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Test one shrimp for doneness immediately after baking. Transfer shrimp to a serving platter to prevent overcooking on the hot baking sheet.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup mild chili sauce, 3-4 Tbsp prepared horseradish, 1 1/2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 tsp hot sauce. Adjust horseradish and hot sauce quantities to your preferred spice level. Mix well.
- Chill and Serve: Cover both the shrimp and cocktail sauce and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best results.
- Baking at high heat quickly cooks shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Adjust horseradish and hot sauce levels based on your spice preference.
- Chilling the shrimp and sauce enhances flavor and serving experience.
- Serve with lemon wedges to add a fresh zesty twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: shrimp cocktail, baked shrimp, cocktail sauce, seafood appetizer, easy shrimp recipe
