Name: Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1 cup prepared cocktail sauce; Lemon wedges

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve only ever had shrimp cocktail chilled and boiled, you’re in for a delightful surprise with this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe. By roasting the shrimp with a touch of olive oil and spices, you get plump, tender bites with a gorgeous blush of color and irresistible flavor—elegant enough for holidays, yet easy enough for any weeknight gathering. With zesty cocktail sauce and lemon wedges, it’s an appetizer that always disappears faster than you can say “seconds,” and trust me, it’s about to become your new go-to!

Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe proves that simple, quality ingredients can make magic happen. Each element adds its own little twist, from the sweet shrimp to the smoky paprika, giving you a dish that’s both vibrant and crowd-pleasing.

Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined with tails on): Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for juiciness and dramatic presentation—leave the tails on for easy dipping.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the seasonings coat the shrimp and brings out a rich, roasted flavor.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp without overpowering.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and subtle kick.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For an earthy, smoky layer—totally optional, but so good for extra depth.
Prepared cocktail sauce (1 cup): Classic zingy partner for the shrimp; buy premade or whip up your own if you want to go the extra mile.
Lemon wedges: A bright squeeze of lemon juice right before serving livens everything up and balances the savory notes.

How to Make Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Let’s start by making sure your shrimp are prepped and ready. Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for that classic look and perfect dipping handle. Pat them dry with paper towels—this is the secret to getting those delicious roasted edges instead of steaming in the oven.

Step 2: Season Everything

Spread your shrimp out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Toss those beauties around gently to coat them all in the oil and seasonings, making sure every shrimp glistens and is ready for roasting.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Roast your shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. Watch as they curl up and turn a gorgeous shade of pink—the perfect indicator that they’re just cooked through. Resist the urge to overcook; just as soon as they’re opaque and slightly firm, they’re ready to come out.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Let your shrimp cool slightly after roasting. Decide if you want to serve them warm for a cozy twist, or pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes if you’d rather a classic chilled shrimp cocktail. Arrange the shrimp prettily around a bowl of cocktail sauce, with lemon wedges alongside for squeezing.

How to Serve Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of smoked paprika over the platter adds a brilliant pop of color. Don’t forget those lemon wedges—guests love that fresh citrus squeeze. For an extra wow factor, add a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving.

Side Dishes

The Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe shines alongside crunchy crudité, crisp crostini, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. If you’re serving a crowd, set out extra sauces—think herby green goddess or a spicy remoulade—to let people mix and match their dips.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Pile your roasted shrimp in a martini glass with the sauce in the center for a retro-chic look, or fan them around a platter in a spiral with the bowl of sauce as the focal point. For parties, skewer the shrimp for easy grabbing or serve individual cups with a dollop of cocktail sauce and a shrimp or two on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, tuck your shrimp (and any extra sauce) into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. The shrimp will stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days—perfect for snacking or tossing into a salad tomorrow.

Freezing

While this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp if needed. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to a month, though the texture may be slightly softer once thawed.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover roasted shrimp warm, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat for just a minute or two, or run briefly under hot water. The goal is to bring them back up to temperature without making them rubbery—never microwave, as this tends to overcook them.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and roasting, so you still get that deliciously caramelized exterior.

Do I have to use smoked paprika?

Nope! The smoked paprika is optional, but it does lend a nice subtle warmth and color. You can leave it out or even swap in a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

How far in advance can I prepare the shrimp?

You can roast the shrimp up to one day ahead. Chill in the fridge, then arrange on your serving platter just before guests arrive—it’s a lifesaver for party prep!

What cocktail sauce do you recommend?

Store-bought cocktail sauce works beautifully, but you can also mix your own with ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce for even bigger flavor. Homemade definitely takes this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe over the top!

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Keep a close eye during roasting: shrimp cook quickly! Remove them from the oven as soon as they’re pink and opaque, then let them finish setting as they cool. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery, so your watchfulness pays off.

Final Thoughts

Give this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe a try, whether you’re hosting a celebration or just treating yourself to something special. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a surefire hit that will earn you rave reviews every time!

Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this flavorful Roasted Shrimp Cocktail recipe that’s perfect for any gathering. Juicy shrimp seasoned with a hint of smoked paprika, served with tangy cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For Serving:

1 cup prepared cocktail sauce
Lemon wedges

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss to coat.
Roast Shrimp: Roast for 8-10 minutes until pink and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
Serve: Serve warm or chilled with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.