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Old Bay Steamed Shrimp

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steamed and seasoned shrimp on a plate with fresh lemon
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Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Preserves Texture and Flavor: Steaming is a gentle cooking method that helps preserve the delicate texture and natural flavor of shrimp. It prevents the shrimp from becoming tough or rubbery, which can happen with more aggressive cooking methods.
  • Healthier Option: It requires minimal or no added fats or oils, making it a healthier cooking technique compared to frying or sautéing. It allows you to enjoy the pure taste of the shrimp without excess calories.
  • Quick and Efficient: This is a quick cooking method making it a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute meal preparations.
  • Even Cooking: Steaming ensures that shrimp cook evenly throughout, avoiding the risk of overcooking some parts while undercooking others.
  • Versatility: Steamed shrimp can be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful appetizer or added to various dishes like salads, pasta, stir-fries, or rice dishes.
  • Adaptable Cooking: Steamed shrimp can be served hot, warm, or chilled, giving you flexibility in how you incorporate them into your meals.
raw shrimp in a glass bowl
spices in a white bowl

What Steamer to Use

I recommend using a steaming basket that is large enough to accommodate all of the shrimp.

I use this Always NonStick Pan from Amazon that comes with a steaming basket. I misplaced the original steamer and ordered a bamboo one to use instead. Either will work.

You can also use this steaming basket. It’s small so you will likely have to cook in batches if used.

water in a pan for steaming

How to Make Steamed Shrimp

Full detailed instructions are below in the recipe card.

  1. Fill a large pot or pan with 1-2 inches of water. Bring the water to a boil.
  2. Season the shrimp with the spices and ensure the shrimp is fully coated.
  3. Once the water is boiling, place a steamer basket or metal colander into the pot.
  4. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in the steamer basket or colander.
  5. Cover the pot with a lid and let the shrimp steam.
uncooked shrimp in a steaming basket
steamed shrimp in a steaming basket
steamed shrimp in a steaming basket
steamed shrimp in a steaming basket

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days in the fridge.

How to Reheat

The best way to reheat is in the air fryer at 350 degrees until warm or seared in a pan with butter. The more you reheat it, the tougher the texture will become so be cautious.

Freezer Tips

The texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. The shrimp may be slightly less firm compared to when they were freshly cooked. You can freeze it for 2-3 months.

Pair With These Recipes

Slow Cooker Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes
Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

More Shrimp Recipes

Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe
Shrimp Spaghetti
Shrimp Jambalaya
Cajun Shrimp Gumbo
Shrimp and Steak Surf and Turf

steamed and seasoned shrimp on a plate with fresh lemon

Old Bay Steamed Shrimp

This Steamed Shrimp recipe will easily become your go-to dish for a quick 15-minute weeknight meal. Our easy-to-follow recipe ensures perfectly tender shrimp, cooked to perfection and seasoned with Old Bay and smoked paprika. Pair these with your favorite sides, salads, or with our mouthwatering dipping sauces.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course dinner, lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 81 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound raw shrimp Deveined; Peeled or Shells On based on your preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2-1 teaspoon Old Bay
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Fill a large pot or pan with 1-2 inches of water. Bring the water to a boil. Use enough water to fill the pot without the steamer basket touching the water.
  • While the water is coming to a boil, prepare the shrimp. Season the shrimp with the spices and ensure the shrimp is fully coated.
  • Once the water is boiling, place a steamer basket or metal colander into the pot. Ensure that the bottom of the basket or colander does not touch the boiling water.
  • Arrange the seasoned shrimp in the steamer basket or colander.
  • Cover the pot with a lid and let the shrimp steam for about 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. The shrimp will turn from grey to pink and opaque when fully cooked.
  • Carefully remove the steamer basket or colander from the pot, using oven mitts or tongs to protect your hands from the hot steam. Transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving platter.

Notes

Cook time will vary depending on the size of the shrimp you use. You will need to watch it and check on it as it cooks, to avoid overcooking it. If you overcook the shrimp it will be rubbery and tough.

Nutrition

Serving: 4ozCalories: 81kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 15gFat: 1g
Keyword how to steam shrimp, Old Bay steamed shrimp, steamed shrimp, steamed shrimp with Old Bay
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Recipe Rating




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Wednesday 25th of September 2024

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Friday 26th of July 2024

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Sunday 21st of July 2024

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Felicia

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

This was such an easy way to prepare shrimp. They were tender and moist. I love all of the serving suggestions in the recipe. I’m going to stock up on shrimp. This is an easy go to recipe. My 6 year old daughter loves these as well, very kid friendly. Thank you!

Brandi Crawford

Friday 29th of September 2023

YAY! Glad to hear it was kid friendly.

Ashley

Wednesday 6th of September 2023

Such a perfectly easy way to make a delicious staple, perfect on their own or thrown in with salads. Definitely will be on repeat!

Brandi Crawford

Wednesday 6th of September 2023

I'm glad to hear it will be on repeat!