There’s something incredibly satisfying about a simple, no-fuss dish that delivers bold, fresh flavor with minimal effort. Boiled Shrimp is exactly that—a quick, flavorful seafood dish that’s ready in minutes and perfect for just about any occasion.
Whether you’re throwing together a casual summer feast or meal-prepping for the week, this method ensures plump, juicy shrimp every time.
Growing up near the coast, I learned early on that the secret to perfect boiled shrimp isn’t just in the boiling—it’s in the seasoning. A touch of garlic salt, black pepper, and bay leaves infuses the shrimp with just the right amount of flavor while letting their natural sweetness shine.
Boiled shrimp is also a fantastic low-calorie, high-protein option for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Shrimp is naturally rich in lean protein, and since this recipe requires zero butter or oil, it’s as light as it is delicious.
Pair it with Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch, or add it to a hearty Chinese Chicken Salad for a fresh and filling meal.
What’s so Special About This Dish?
- Quick & effortless – ready in less than 10 minutes from start to finish.
- Naturally light & healthy – high in protein, low in calories, and packed with flavor.
- Versatile – serve it hot or chilled, as an appetizer or main dish.
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – simple seasoning makes the shrimp shine.
Boiled Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1.15 lbs raw shrimp shell-on
- 8 cups filtered water
- 1 Tbsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1-2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Peel and devein shrimp, reserving the shells for boiling.
- In a large saucepan, add shrimp shells, garlic salt, black pepper, bay leaf, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add peeled shrimp to the boiling water and simmer for 2-3 minutes until pink.
- Drain shrimp and transfer them to a bowl of cold water.
- Let shrimp cool, then serve as desired.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 450kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 90g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Sodium | 2500mg |
Expert Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp!
- Use Shells for Maximum Flavor – Boiling the shrimp shells first creates a flavorful broth that enhances the taste of the shrimp. Let them simmer for 10-15 minutes before adding the shrimp for even more depth.
- Salt Matters – Instead of just garlic salt, try using sea salt or kosher salt for a cleaner, more balanced salinity. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Timing is Key – Shrimp cook fast! Overcooking leads to a rubbery texture. As soon as they turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape (not a tight curl), remove them from heat.
- Cold Water Stop – Plunging the shrimp into ice water immediately after boiling stops the cooking process and helps retain their juicy texture.
- Extra Aromatics – For a boost of flavor, consider adding sliced onions, celery, or a few peppercorns to the broth.
- Shell-On for More Juiciness – Cooking shrimp with the shells on helps seal in their natural moisture. If peeling before cooking, consider leaving the tails on for better presentation and flavor.
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
