Bold, buttery, and bursting with flavor, Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is the kind of dish that turns any regular dinner into a finger-licking celebration. This recipe combines the rich sweetness of honey and the savory warmth of Old Bay seasoning, finished off with a buttery glaze that coats every shrimp perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight fix or planning a flavorful appetizer for a gathering, this dish checks all the boxes.
Imagine succulent shrimp seared to perfection, then tossed in a glossy, spiced honey butter sauce that clings to each bite. The result is a caramelized, slightly smoky, and spicy seafood treat with just the right amount of sweetness. Serve it over rice, grits, or straight out of the bowl—either way, it’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Ingredients for this Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
- 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the Old Bay seasoning evenly over the shrimp. Add smoked paprika if you like a little extra smoky heat. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated. Let them marinate for about 10–15 minutes while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Add the shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 1–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Then, stir in the honey and lemon juice. Let the sauce bubble gently for a minute until it starts to thicken.
Step 4: Bring it All Together
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the honey butter sauce until fully coated. Let them cook together for another 1–2 minutes so the sauce clings beautifully to each piece.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and sticky!
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until just heated through—avoid microwaving for too long as it can make the shrimp rubbery. You can also repurpose the leftovers by tossing them into a salad, pasta, or tacos for a quick meal the next day.
Freezing is not highly recommended for this recipe, as the honey butter sauce may change texture once thawed. However, if you must freeze, ensure the shrimp is completely cooled, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (based on 4 servings total):
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 720mg
Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on exact ingredient brands and sizes used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
2. Is Old Bay seasoning very spicy?
Not really. Old Bay is more savory and peppery than hot. It’s kid-friendly but full of bold flavor.
3. Can I substitute the honey?
Yes, maple syrup or agave can be used as alternatives, but honey gives the best glaze and depth.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use vegan butter or margarine instead of traditional butter to keep it dairy-free.
5. What should I serve this with?
Rice, mashed potatoes, creamy grits, pasta, or even a fresh green salad pair beautifully.
6. How do I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the honey butter sauce for a spicy kick.
7. Can I cook this on the grill?
Yes! Marinate the shrimp and grill them on skewers, then brush with warmed honey butter sauce after grilling.
8. How long does it take to make this dish?
From prep to plate, it takes about 20 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful option for busy weeknights.
Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
Description
Sweet, spicy, and buttery all in one irresistible bite—this Honey Butter Old Bay Shrimp is a flavor-packed dish perfect for seafood lovers. Whether you’re searching for a quick dinner idea, a flavorful party appetizer, or a new favorite for your weeknight meals, this recipe brings serious flavor in under 30 minutes. Each shrimp is seared to golden perfection, then coated in a luscious honey butter glaze enhanced with the signature kick of Old Bay seasoning. Ideal for serving over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread, this dish is the definition of an easy recipe that delivers gourmet taste.
From dinner ideas to food ideas that feel fancy but are incredibly simple, this shrimp dish is one of those easy dinners that you’ll keep coming back to. Sticky, garlicky, buttery goodness in every bite—what’s not to love?
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the shrimp in a bowl and toss with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tbsp of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until pink and lightly charred. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in honey and lemon juice, allowing the sauce to bubble and thicken slightly.
- Return shrimp to the pan and coat well with the sauce. Let cook for 1–2 more minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.