Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp

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There’s something magical about the way sweet and savory blend together in this Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp. It’s a dish that speaks to coastal comfort—succulent shrimp simmered in a luscious mix of warm honey, rich butter, and bold Old Bay seasoning. Each bite bursts with buttery sweetness balanced by the perfect kick of spice and saltiness from the classic seasoning blend. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests on the weekend, this recipe brings flavor, simplicity, and elegance to your table in under 20 minutes.

With its golden glaze and tender texture, this shrimp dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or a fresh green salad. It’s equally at home as a hearty appetizer, light lunch, or centerpiece for a cozy seafood dinner. The aroma alone will have your kitchen feeling like a beachside bistro. Get ready to fall in love with this easy recipe that’s bound to become a repeat favorite!

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Ingredients for Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick better and prevents excess moisture from watering down the sauce. If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation (or remove them if you prefer).

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Step 2: Make the Honey Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s fully melted and begins to bubble slightly, stir in the honey and mix until well combined. Add the Old Bay seasoning and, if you like a little extra depth, toss in the minced garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors blend.

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Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes on the first side, until they start to turn pink and opaque. Flip them over and cook for another 1–2 minutes, just until cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can turn rubbery quickly.

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Step 4: Add Final Touches

Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze in the lemon juice if using, and give everything a quick toss to coat in the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the sauce is still warm and silky.

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Storage Instructions

Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them delicious:

• Refrigerate: Store cooled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
• Freeze: You can freeze cooked shrimp in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip: Store the shrimp with a bit of the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful during reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per serving, approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 590mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

2. What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay, a mix of paprika, celery salt, garlic powder, and cayenne makes a great homemade alternative.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

Old Bay has a mild spice. You can kick it up with a dash of cayenne or hot sauce if you prefer more heat.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—swap out the butter for a plant-based version or olive oil. It won’t be as rich, but still tasty.

5. What sides go well with Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp?

Rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread are all fantastic choices.

6. Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Marinate the shrimp in the honey butter mix, then grill and drizzle remaining sauce after cooking.

7. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They’ll turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly and feel rubbery.

8. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Very much so! The sweetness of the honey balances the seasoning, making it flavorful but not overpowering for kids.

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