Old Bay Peel and Eat Shrimp (Stove Top)
If you’re looking for the easiest way to serve up juicy shrimp with tons of flavor, this Old Bay Peel and Eat Shrimp recipe is it. With just six simple ingredients, this shrimp recipe comes together quickly in a skillet and makes the perfect shrimp appetizer or light main dish. The zesty blend of herbs from Old Bay seasoning mixed with butter and garlic creates bold, tender shrimp with every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner or just craving a quick seafood fix, this easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget the crusty bread—you’ll want it to soak up every bit of that buttery, garlicky goodness.
There’s just something about sitting down to a big bowl of zesty shrimp with plenty of napkins and your favorite people. I may not live near the coast, but that doesn’t stop me from making the best shrimp right at home. This recipe uses easy peel shrimp, tossed with garlic and classic Old Bay seasoning—it’s my favorite way to get that seafood shack flavor without leaving the house.
Why You’ll Love This Old Bay Shrimp Recipe
- Restaurant-Worthy at Home – This shrimp recipe delivers bold, zesty flavor that rivals your favorite seafood restaurant.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. No big pot, no steamer basket—just a skillet, simple ingredients, and bold flavor.
- Skillet-Cooked for Maximum Flavor – No boiling here! Cooking in a skillet with butter and garlic locks in flavor and gives the shrimp a delicious sear.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy these juicy shrimp on their own, over rice, tossed into a salad, or as a great shrimp appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 pounds uncooked large shrimp (31/40 count per pound) – Look for shell-on, deveined shrimp, often labeled “E-Z peel” or “deveined” on the bag. While fresh shrimp is ideal, I typically use frozen wild-caught shrimp, which is more readily available at most grocery stores.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor to every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning – The star of the recipe! This zesty blend of herbs and spices is a seafood classic that gives the shrimp its signature flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances and balances all the other seasonings.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick and depth.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Melted in the skillet, it creates a rich, savory base that coats the shrimp perfectly.
Kitchen Essentials: Large Skillet
How to Make Old Bay Peel and Eat Shrimp
- Place the shrimp in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let them sit for about 20–30 minutes until completely thawed. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked shrimp, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat all the shrimp evenly. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for approximately 10–15 minutes. This allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors from the seafood seasoning.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and bubbly, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, juicy, and slightly curled. Avoid overcooking – shrimp are done when their internal temperature reaches 120°F.
- Transfer the hot shrimp to a serving platter using a slotted spoon. Serve immediately. The shrimp will still be in their shells – peel and eat at the table. Optional: Sprinkle the top of the shrimp with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges, homemade cocktail sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Eat Peel and Eat Shrimp
These shrimp are cooked with the shells and tails on, which helps lock in flavor and keep them juicy. Don’t worry—they’re easy to eat and worth the (small) mess!
- Grip the tail firmly between your fingers.
- Use your other hand to gently pull the shell away, starting at the open end. It should come off easily.
- You can pinch and pull it off or bite the shrimp just before the tail and discard the tail piece.
- Serve with lemon wedges, homemade cocktail sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce—and don’t forget the napkins!
Tips for Best Results
- Use large shrimp (31/40 count) – they stay juicy and flavorful.
- Let the shrimp rest in seasoning before cooking to maximize flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook in batches if needed for even heat.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
What to Serve with Peel and Eat Shrimp
Here are some delicious ideas for what to serve with peel and eat shrimp:
Old Bay Peel and Eat Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds uncooked large shrimp 31/40 count per pound
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Place the shrimp in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let them sit for about 20–30 minutes until completely thawed. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked shrimp, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat all the shrimp evenly. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for approximately 10–15 minutes. This allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors from the seafood seasoning.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and bubbly, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, juicy, and slightly curled. Avoid overcooking – shrimp are done when their internal temperature reaches 120°F.
- Transfer the hot shrimp to a serving platter using a slotted spoon. Serve immediately. The shrimp will still be in their shells – peel and eat at the table. Optional: Sprinkle the top of the shrimp with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges, homemade cocktail sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
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About Sarah
Wife. Mother. From-Scratch Cook. Homemaker.
I’m Sarah, the creator of Rocky Hedge Farm, where I share my love for simple living, homemade meals, and creating a cozy home. As a wife and mother, I’m passionate about slowing down, cooking from scratch, and finding joy in the everyday moments of life. From DIY projects and family-friendly recipes, I hope to inspire others to embrace a life rooted in simplicity and warmth.
