There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into perfectly seasoned shrimp, and I’ve always been a fan of the bold flavors in Killer Shrimp. Whether you’re craving that restaurant magic or just want to treat yourself to something special at home, this copycat recipe has got you covered.
Recreating this dish was a game-changer for me. With a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can bring the same deliciousness to your kitchen. Get ready to wow your taste buds and impress your friends with a shrimp recipe that’s both mouthwatering and surprisingly effortless.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Tools Needed
To create my Killer Shrimp Copycat Recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Large Mixing Bowl
Perfect for marinating the shrimp evenly.
- Measuring Spoons
Ensure accurate measurement of spices and seasonings.
- Whisk
Combine marinade ingredients thoroughly for consistent flavor.
- Skillet or Grill Pan
Cook the shrimp to a perfect, juicy finish.
- Tongs
Safely handle the shrimp while cooking.
- Serving Platter
Present your delicious shrimp attractively.
- Lemon Squeezer
Add a fresh burst of lemon juice effortlessly.
- Chopping Board and Knife
Prepare fresh herbs and garnishes with ease.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing this Killer Shrimp recipe ahead of time can save you valuable minutes when it’s time to serve. Here’s how I like to streamline the process:
1. Marinate the Shrimp
- Clean and Devein: Start by peeling and deveining the 2 pounds of large shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Mix and Marinate: Whisk the marinade ingredients thoroughly, then add the shrimp. Ensure each shrimp is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix in Advance
Having your spice mix ready to go makes seasoning a breeze:
- Measure Ingredients: Pre-measure all the spices listed in the marinade and store them in a small airtight container.
- Combine Before Use: When you’re ready to marinate, simply add the pre-measured spices to the olive oil and garlic mixture. This step ensures consistency and saves time.
3. Chop Fresh Herbs and Prepare Lemon Wedges
Fresh garnishes can elevate your dish:
- Chop Parsley: Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Slice Lemons: Cut lemons into wedges and keep them in a sealed container or zip-top bag in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
4. Preheat Your Cooking Equipment
Ensure everything is ready for a quick cook:
- Skillet or Grill Pan: If you’re using a skillet or grill pan, preheat it on medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. This can be done a few minutes before cooking to save time.
- Tools Ready: Have your tongs, lemon squeezer, and serving platter set up and within reach.
5. Storage Guidelines
Keep your prepped ingredients fresh:
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Marinated Shrimp | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 24 hours |
| Spice Mix | Airtight container, pantry | Up to 3 months |
| Chopped Parsley | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 3 days |
| Lemon Wedges | Sealed container, fridge | Up to 5 days |
Directions
Let’s dive into creating these mouthwatering Killer Shrimp. Follow these steps to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Prep the Shrimp
- Clean the Shrimp: Rinse 2 pounds of large shrimp under cold water. Peel and devein them, leaving the tails on for a beautiful presentation.
- Marinate: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to ensure they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Shrimp
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Remove and Rest: Transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving platter and keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.
Prepare the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add a pinch of salt or a squeeze more lemon juice if desired to enhance the flavors.
Combine and Serve
- Toss Shrimp with Sauce: Drizzle the prepared sauce over the cooked shrimp. Gently toss to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Garnish: Sprinkle additional fresh parsley on top for a vibrant finish. Arrange lemon wedges around the platter for an extra burst of freshness.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Killer Shrimp hot, paired with your favorite sides or a crisp salad.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Killer Shrimp experience, here are some fantastic ways to serve and enjoy this flavorful dish:
Perfect Side Dishes
- Garlic Parmesan Rice: Cook fluffy white or brown rice and stir in roasted garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
- Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Toss broccoli, bell peppers, and asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender and slightly charred.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onions, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Delicious Bread Options
- Crusty Baguette: Serve warm slices of baguette to soak up the savory sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on bread slices. Toast until golden and crispy.
Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the shrimp’s bold flavors.
- Craft Beer: Opt for a light lager or a citrusy IPA to enhance the meal.
- Refreshing Cocktails: A classic margarita or a mojito adds a vibrant touch to your dinner.
Plating and Presentation Tips
- Elegant Platter: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a large serving platter. Drizzle with the lemon butter sauce for a glossy finish.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the shrimp for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: Place lemon wedges around the platter for extra citrus flavor and a visually appealing presentation.
Additional Enhancements
| Enhancement | Description |
|---|---|
| Spicy Aioli | Serve a side of spicy aioli for dipping the shrimp. |
| Avocado Slices | Add creamy avocado slices to balance the dish’s spices. |
| Pickled Vegetables | Include tangy pickled carrots or cucumbers for added zest. |
Conclusion
I’m thrilled you decided to try out this Killer Shrimp copycat recipe. Bringing such bold flavors into your kitchen is incredibly satisfying.
Give it a go and enjoy the delicious results with your friends and family. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you and any fun twists you add. Happy cooking!
