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Flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Cocktail Recipe with Creamy Horseradish Dip

garlic butter shrimp cocktail - featured image

A quick and easy shrimp cocktail featuring shrimp sautéed in garlic butter paired with a creamy, tangy horseradish dip. Perfect for entertaining or a simple, satisfying snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Horseradish Dip: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust horseradish for spiciness. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  2. Prep the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss in chopped parsley. Stir gently to coat shrimp evenly.
  6. Transfer and Chill (Optional): Transfer shrimp to a chilled platter and refrigerate for 10 minutes before serving for a classic shrimp cocktail vibe, or serve warm.

Notes

If garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce heat and add a splash of water to prevent bitterness. Fresh lemon juice is essential to brighten the richness. Serve shrimp warm for a buttery experience or chilled for a classic cocktail feel. Adjust horseradish in the dip to taste. Use wild-caught shrimp if possible for better flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp cocktail, garlic butter shrimp, horseradish dip, appetizer, quick shrimp recipe, easy shrimp cocktail, party appetizer