Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that combines the sweet richness of honey butter with the bold, savory flavors of Old Bay seasoning. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a tasty addition to your next seafood feast. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Season Shrimp:
- In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Old Bay seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat Butter and Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and melt over medium heat.
- Add Honey:
- Stir in the honey and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the mixture to become bubbly and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
- Add Shrimp:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the honey butter sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are well glazed with the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this sweet and savory delight with your favorite side dishes!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are peeled and deveined.
- Old Bay Seasoning: Old Bay adds a distinctive flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste or add extra for a bolder flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Variations
Spicy Honey Butter Shrimp
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon Honey Butter Shrimp
- Add Lemon:
- Stir in the juice and zest of 1 lemon to the honey butter sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
Garlic Honey Butter Shrimp
- Add Garlic:
- Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic in the butter and olive oil before adding the shrimp for a garlicky twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Rice:
- Serve over a bed of white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- With Vegetables:
- Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli.
Beverages
- With White Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
- With Lemonade:
- Serve with a glass of iced lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce separately and combine them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I use a different type of seafood? A: Yes, you can use other seafood like scallops or a firm white fish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use a different type of seasoning? A: Yes, you can experiment with other seasonings like Cajun or Creole for different flavors.
Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is a sweet and savory delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich honey butter sauce and bold Old Bay seasoning, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp with your family and friends!
