Peel and eat shrimp is all about bold flavor and simplicity. The shrimp are cooked in their shells, which helps retain their natural sweetness and juiciness. This dish is quick to prepare, fun to eat, and perfect for sharing. Whether you serve it hot or chilled, it’s a versatile recipe that works as an appetizer, main course, or part of a seafood feast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Raw shell-on shrimp (large or jumbo)
Water
Old Bay seasoning (or your favorite seafood boil seasoning)
Garlic cloves
Lemon (halved)
Bay leaves
Salt
Butter (for serving)
Cocktail sauce (for serving)
Directions
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add Old Bay seasoning, crushed garlic, lemon halves (squeeze them into the water first), bay leaves, salt.
Let the seasoned water simmer for 5-10 minutes to build flavor.
Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Immediately remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a large bowl or tray.
Serve hot with melted butter and lemon wedges, or chill the shrimp for later and serve with cocktail sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 as a main dish or 6–8 as an appetizer. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or sliced jalapeños to the boiling water.
Cajun twist: Use Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay for a bolder flavor.
Citrus boil: Add orange slices along with lemon for a sweet-citrus flavor.
Grilled option: Toss raw shell-on shrimp in oil and seasoning, then grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
Chilled shrimp: After boiling, transfer shrimp to an ice bath to cool quickly, then serve cold with dipping sauces.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate any leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, briefly steam the shrimp or warm them in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. If serving chilled, simply store them in the fridge and serve with sauces when ready.
FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use?
Large or jumbo shell-on shrimp are best. You can use fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re thawed before cooking.
Do I need to devein the shrimp?
It’s optional. Some people prefer to devein for texture or appearance, but it’s not required for safety or taste.
Can I cook the shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, peel and eat shrimp can be made in advance and served cold or gently reheated.
How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?
Boil them just until they turn pink and start to curl, usually 2–3 minutes. Immediately remove and cool or serve.
What sauces go well with peel and eat shrimp?
Melted butter, cocktail sauce, garlic butter, and remoulade are all excellent options.
Can I freeze cooked shrimp?
Yes, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Do I have to eat them hot?
Not at all. They’re delicious chilled and served with cold dipping sauces, especially on hot days.
How messy is this dish?
It’s hands-on and a bit messy—in the best way. Provide plenty of napkins and finger bowls or wipes for cleanup.
Can I add other seafood or ingredients?
Definitely. Combine with crab, corn, sausage, or potatoes for a full seafood boil experience.
Conclusion
Peel and eat shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and fun dish that’s perfect for casual dining and gatherings. With a short cooking time and loads of flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for seafood lovers who enjoy bold tastes and a relaxed eating experience. Whether served hot or cold, it’s a dish that brings people together, one peel at a time.
Peel and eat shrimp is a quick and flavorful seafood dish made by boiling shell-on shrimp in seasoned water. Served hot with melted butter or cold with cocktail sauce, it’s perfect for casual gatherings or an easy weeknight meal.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:4 servings (main dish) or 6–8 servings (appetizer)
Category:Main Dish
Method:Boiling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Calorie
Ingredients
2 pounds large or jumbo raw shell-on shrimp
8 cups water
3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or seafood boil seasoning)
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 lemon, halved
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon salt
Butter, for serving
Cocktail sauce, for serving
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add Old Bay seasoning, crushed garlic, lemon halves (squeezed into the pot), bay leaves, and salt.
Reduce heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes to infuse the water with flavor.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and transfer to a serving bowl or tray.
Serve immediately with melted butter and lemon wedges, or chill and serve with cocktail sauce.
Notes
Don’t overcook the shrimp—once they’re pink and curled, they’re done.Optional: Transfer to an ice bath after boiling if serving chilled.Use Cajun seasoning for a spicier twist.Serve with plenty of napkins—it’s meant to be messy and fun!Great for seafood boils or simple weeknight meals.
