Looking for an easy appetizer that’s guaranteed to disappear fast? Spicy Party Shrimp only take 5 minutes to cook and they really pack the flavor! Fresh shrimp are marinated in a flavorful and spicy marinade made from a packet of Italian dressing mix, oil, and a few spices. After an hour or two in the marinade, they only take 5 to 7 minutes to broil. This easy party appetizer is always a hit.
Marinated in a blend of Italian Dressing Mix, oil, and spices, these fresh shrimp are a mouthwatering delight. The addition of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes will give your taste buds a flavor delight. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day gathering, backyard cookout, or summer dinner with friends, this easy shrimp appetizer is always a crowd favorite.
Quick and Easy Shrimp Recipe
Shrimp make the best party appetizer because they are so quick and easy to make. Peeling the shrimp does take some time but you can do it in advance or pay extra for the shrimp that are already peeled.
This recipe is slightly adapted from the South Your Mouth Some More Cookbook authored by Mandy Rivers of the South Your Mouth blog and it is one of my favorite shrimp recipes. It has so many good recipes in it.
Ingredient Notes
Shrimp
Large or jumbo shrimp work best because they stay juicy under the broiler. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well—just thaw frozen shrimp completely
Italian Dressing Mix
The Italian dressing mix is the secret ingredient. It adds herbs, garlic, onion, and plenty of savory flavor without measuring lots of spices and is a great kitchen short-cut.
Cayenne Pepper and Red Pepper Flakes
I like to use both a little cayenne pepper and a few red pepper flakes for the heat. They each add a different flavor and heat. Adjust the cayenne to suit your heat preference. If serving guests with varying spice tolerances, start with less and let everyone add hot sauce at the table.
What Is Italian Dressing Mix?
Italian Dressing Mix is a packet or seasonings that you mix with oil and vinegar to make a salad dressing. I use Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix. You can find it with the bottle salad dressings at the grocery store.
How To Serve Spicy Party Shrimp
Spicy Party Shrimp make a great appetizer and you can also serve them as a main dish. Just before serving, you can squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on top. These shrimp are so flavorful you really don’t need a dipping sauce but you can serve them with a remoulade sauce or tartar sauce. If you have any leftover, toss them on a salad for lunch for a delightful lunch.
Recipe Tips
- Spread the shrimp in a single layer so they cook evenly.
- Watch closely while broiling—they cook very quickly.
- Careful not to overcook. Shrimp are done as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
These easy party shrimp are delicious served cold over salads or gently reheated in the microwave or a skillet over low heat.
More Holiday Shrimp Appetizers
- Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Buttery Broiled Shrimp
- Bacon Wrapped Shrimp with Pepper Jelly Glaze
- New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp
- Crab Cake Stuffed Shrimp
- Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Shrimp Wonton Chips
- Bourbon Shrimp
Spicy Party Shrimp
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- pinch of salt
- lemon wedges, optional
Instructions
- Place shrimp in a large ziptop bag.
- In a small bowl, whisk remaining ingredients together. Pour into bag with shrimp. Marinate in the refrigerator for 1-3 hours.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Evenly space shrimp on baking sheet.
- Broil for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Serve the shrimp as is or with Cocktail sauce or Remoulade sauce. A fresh squeeze of lemon juice enhnaces their flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.
Do you flip the shrimp half way? Thanks!
Sounds great, but exactly how and what are you suppose to eat the shrimps with?
These are some of the best recipes as are most of yours. My saved department are about full of all the recipes I have saved to fix. Everyone ai have tried have been outstanding. Thanks to you, I have found cooking fun again. You need to publish a cookbook and if you have let me know and I will certainly get it. Thanks again and Merry Christmas.
Thank you Betty! I would love to publish a cookbook some day 🙂
Merry Christmas!
Wow!!! This looks so yummy! I’m adding this to making list this week.