Easy Boiled Shrimp (Plump and Succulent!)

User Reviews

5

36 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    15 mins

  • Additional Time

    2 hrs

  • Total Time

    2 hrs 25 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    199 kcal

  • Course

    Appetizer

  • Cuisine

    American

Easy Boiled Shrimp (Plump and Succulent!)

This recipe gently cooks jumbo or extra-large peeled and deveined shrimp in salted water to achieve a plump, opaque finish without overcooking. The shrimp are boiled briefly and then steamed off-heat to maintain a tender texture. Cooling and refrigerating afterward make the shrimp ideal for serving chilled with cocktail sauce or melted butter, emphasizing their natural flavor and juiciness.

Description

Easy Boiled Shrimp are prepared by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and briefly submerging the peeled and deveined shrimp. Rather than a prolonged boil, the pot is covered and removed from heat, letting the residual heat gently cook the shrimp until pink and opaque. This method prevents toughness and preserves moisture, especially suited for jumbo or extra-large sizes.

The shrimp are then drained and chilled in the refrigerator before serving. This cooling step helps firm the texture slightly and makes the shrimp ideal for cold presentations such as cocktail platters. The simple seasoning with kosher salt allows the shrimp’s natural sweetness to shine. Optional aromatics like lemon wedges, garlic cloves, or bay leaves can enhance the water's subtle flavor but are not necessary.

When handling frozen shrimp, defrost thoroughly in cool water before cooking to ensure even texture. Leftover shrimp can be stored covered and refrigerated for up to three days. Serving suggestions include pairing with classic cocktail sauce or melted butter, maintaining the straightforward preparation and fresh seafood taste.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 pounds Shrimp Jumbo or extra-large, peeled and deveined, tail on, raw
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt for the cooking water; or ½ tablespoon of any other salt, including Morton kosher salt, Diamond Crystal brand

Instructions

  1. Fill a large stockpot with water. Add the kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Gently stir.
  3. Cover the pot, remove it from the heat, and allow the shrimp to cook in the residual heat until pink and opaque. If using jumbo or extra-large shrimp, this should take about 10 minutes.
  4. Using a slotted spatula, transfer the cooked shrimp to a platter. Cover and refrigerate them for 2 hours.
  5. Serve the shrimp with cocktail sauce or melted butter.

Notes

  • If using frozen shrimp, defrost in cool water with two 10-minute soaks before rinsing.
  • Cook shrimp gently off heat after boiling to avoid overcooking and maintain tenderness.
  • Enhance boiling water flavor by adding aromatics like lemon wedges, garlic, or bay leaves, though optional.
  • Store cooked shrimp in a shallow airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 0.25recipe Calories 199kcal (10%) Carbohydrates 1.7g (1%) Protein 38g (76%) Fat 3g (5%) Sodium 848mg (35%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 199 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 0.25recipe
Calories 199kcal 10%
Carbohydrates 1.7g 1%
Protein 38g 76%
Fat 3g 5%
Sodium 848mg 35%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

5

36 reviews
Excellent

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