Best Shrimp Cocktail

There’s nothing quite like the Best Shrimp Cocktail—refreshing, zesty, and incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re serving it at a fancy dinner party, bringing it to a potluck, or simply craving a classic appetizer, this recipe checks all the boxes. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also delivers perfectly poached shrimp with a bold, tangy homemade cocktail sauce.

Now, while store-bought shrimp cocktail might seem convenient, homemade is far better for several reasons. First of all, you get juicy, tender shrimp cooked just right, then quickly chilled for that signature crisp bite. Plus, the cocktail sauce? It’s bursting with flavor—thanks to the ideal balance of horseradish, lemon, and a touch of smoked paprika. Even better, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. As a result, every bite is perfectly customized to your liking.

Since this recipe is so simple, it’s perfect for beginners, yet impressive enough for seasoned cooks. In fact, it only takes a few minutes to make! Just chill, serve, and enjoy. So, if you’re searching for the ultimate shrimp cocktail recipe, look no further. Without a doubt, this one is a must-try. Ready to dive in? Let’s make it!

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 lemon, halved
4 cups water
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 bay leaf
1 garlic clove, smashed
4–5 ice cubes (for ice bath)

Cocktail Sauce:
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tbsp prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp hot sauce (or more for spice)
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the poaching water: First, in a medium pot, bring water, lemon halves, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, and garlic to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This step is essential because it infuses the shrimp with flavor.

2. Poach the shrimp: Next, add the peeled shrimp and cook for 1 1/2 – 2 minutes, or until they turn pink, opaque, and the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C). To prevent overcooking, immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath (water + ice) to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for about 5 minutes, then drain well and pat dry.

3. Make the cocktail sauce: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, smoked paprika, and sugar. For the best flavor, adjust the horseradish and spice to your preference. Chill for at least 15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

4. Serve & enjoy: Finally, arrange the chilled shrimp on a platter with a bowl of cocktail sauce. For an extra touch, garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley or dill for a beautiful, restaurant-worthy presentation.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use Jumbo Shrimp: Bigger shrimp not only give the best texture, but they also make for a stunning presentation—so aim for 16/20 count per pound for the ideal bite.
• Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the shrimp and sauce chill for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. That way, the flavors fully develop, and you get the most refreshing bite possible.
• Balance the Spice & Sweetness: The small pinch of sugar really makes a difference. However, if you love heat, simply increase the horseradish and hot sauce for an extra kick!