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This dish brings together the sweetness of honey, the richness of butter, and the savory kick of Old Bay seasoning to create shrimp that are juicy and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer that feels special but comes together easily.
I first made this for a casual dinner with friends and was amazed by how everyone asked for seconds. It’s simple but impressive every time.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: three tablespoons provides a creamy base and helps the honey caramelize
- Honey: two tablespoons adds a natural sweetness that balances the spice in the Old Bay
- Old Bay seasoning: one tablespoon the star of the flavor profile, choose a fresh container for the boldest taste
- Large shrimp: one pound peeled and deveined select firm, fresh shrimp for the best texture
- Garlic: two cloves minced builds savory depth and aroma
- Fresh parsley: chopped adds brightness and a fresh finish, pick vibrant green sprigs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry and season:
- Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with a paper towel to help them sear properly. Lightly season with a bit of Old Bay seasoning so the flavors begin layering right away.
- Melt butter and cook garlic with honey:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Stir in the honey and minced garlic, cooking for roughly one minute until you can smell the garlic but it has not burned. This step infuses the butter with honey sweetness and garlic aroma.
- Cook shrimp until caramelized:
- Add the shrimp in a single layer without crowding the pan. Let them cook two to three minutes on one side until pink and slightly caramelized in the honey butter sauce, then flip and cook the other side for the same time. Patience here ensures juicy shrimp with a flavorful glaze.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the honey butter sauce.
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I love how the honey creates a sticky glaze that perfectly coats each shrimp. It reminds me of summer cookouts where this dish was always gobbled up first.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat or in a warm skillet to avoid drying out the shrimp. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but keeping it short in the fridge helps maintain texture and taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
- You can swap regular butter for ghee or olive oil if you want a different fat profile
- Maple syrup or agave nectar works if you don’t have honey on hand, though the flavor will be a bit different
- If Old Bay is unavailable, a mix of paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of cayenne will get close to the same taste
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fluffy white rice to soak up every drop of the sauce or toss it with pasta and a squeeze of lemon for a quick main course
- A side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad balances the richness of the dish beautifully
- For a casual gathering, pile the shrimp on toasted baguette slices for a simple but impressive appetizer
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Cultural Context
Old Bay seasoning is a classic blend originating from Maryland and is traditionally used in seafood dishes like crab and shrimp boils. Combining it with honey butter adds a sweet Southern twist that showcases how American regional flavors can come together to create something new and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of shrimp works best for this dish?
Large, peeled and deveined shrimp provide the best texture and cook evenly, allowing the honey butter glaze to coat each piece perfectly.
- → How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook shrimp quickly over medium heat, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are just cooked through to keep them tender.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness of the Old Bay seasoning?
Yes, you can reduce or increase the amount of Old Bay to suit your taste, or mix in other spices to customize the flavor profile.
- → What sides pair well with this shrimp preparation?
This flavorful shrimp goes well with steamed rice, buttered pasta, or fresh crusty bread to soak up the honey butter sauce.
- → Is fresh parsley essential in this dish?
Parsley adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the rich sauce but can be omitted or substituted with cilantro or chives if preferred.