Description
This Roasted Shrimp Cocktail recipe features juicy, perfectly roasted shrimp paired with a tangy, spicy homemade cocktail sauce. Quick to prepare and elegant to serve, it’s an ideal appetizer for gatherings or a sophisticated snack ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 2 pounds shrimp, 12-15 count, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cocktail Sauce
- 1/2 cup Heinz chili sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (204℃). This high temperature ensures the shrimp roast quickly, keeping them juicy and tender.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation and easy handling. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for the best roasting results.
- Season the Shrimp: Place the shrimp on a sheet pan. Drizzle evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat all shrimp and arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the Shrimp: Roast the shrimp in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until they turn pink, become firm, and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Heinz chili sauce, ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco hot sauce. Mix thoroughly until well blended for a balanced tangy and spicy dip.
- Serve: Transfer the roasted shrimp to a serving platter. Serve alongside the homemade cocktail sauce as a dip. Garnish as desired with lemon wedges or fresh herbs, and enjoy this classic appetizer.
Notes
- Keep the shrimp tails on for easier handling and a nicer presentation.
- Patting the shrimp dry before roasting helps them roast evenly and develop a better texture.
- Watch the shrimp closely while roasting to avoid overcooking which can make them rubbery.
- You can adjust the spiciness of the cocktail sauce by adding more or less Tabasco according to your preference.
- Serve immediately after roasting for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American