Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay

Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay takes a classic appetizer to the next level by roasting shrimp for extra flavor and seasoning them with the iconic blend of Old Bay. Juicy, tender, and perfectly spiced, these shrimp are served chilled with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce. It’s a quick, elegant dish that’s perfect for entertaining, holidays, or a light seafood starter.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)olive oilOld Bay seasoningfreshly ground black pepperlemon wedges

For the cocktail sauce:
ketchupprepared horseradishWorcestershire saucesaltlemon juicehot sauce (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Roast for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink, firm, and slightly golden at the edges.

Remove from oven and allow to cool, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

To make the cocktail sauce, mix ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a dash of salt. Add hot sauce if desired for extra kick.

Serve chilled shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a side of cocktail sauce for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4–6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesRoasting time: 8–10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne for deeper heat.

Use jumbo shrimp for a more dramatic presentation.

Serve with avocado slices or on a bed of lettuce for a fancier touch.

Try different dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy remoulade.

Add minced garlic to the shrimp before roasting for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Serve leftovers cold or gently reheat in a skillet for a quick meal.Do not freeze once cooked, as shrimp texture may suffer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and roasting.

What is Old Bay seasoning made of?

It’s a blend of celery salt, paprika, pepper, and other spices, perfect for seafood.

Do I have to chill the shrimp before serving?

Chilling enhances the shrimp cocktail experience, but they can also be served warm if preferred.

Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, roast and chill up to a day in advance for easy entertaining.

What size shrimp should I use?

Large or extra-large shrimp (16–20 count) work best for texture and presentation.

Can I peel the shrimp after roasting?

Yes, but it’s easier and cleaner to peel before cooking.

How spicy is this recipe?

Old Bay adds mild spice—adjust with more pepper or hot sauce if desired.

Is homemade cocktail sauce better than store-bought?

Homemade offers fresher flavor and can be adjusted to your taste, but store-bought works in a pinch.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Yes, grilled shrimp with Old Bay also works beautifully—just watch for quick cooking.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s best to roast raw shrimp for full flavor, but pre-cooked can be used if reheated and chilled properly.

Conclusion

Oven-Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Old Bay is an easy yet impressive appetizer that blends classic flavors with a fresh, roasted twist. With bold seasoning, juicy shrimp, and a homemade dip, this dish is sure to stand out at any gathering. Elegant, flavorful, and ready in under an hour—it’s a seafood favorite that never fails to impress.

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