Easy Shrimp Cocktail Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp cocktail sauce is a classic, tangy complement to chilled shrimp that is quick and easy to prepare. This homemade version balances the sweetness of ketchup with the zest of horseradish and lemon, making it perfect for entertaining or a simple snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
• 1 1/2 lbs large, cooked, tail-on shrimp, rinsed with cold water

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the ketchup, lemon juice, and prepared horseradish. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Step 2: Taste the sauce and adjust to your preference—add more horseradish for extra spice or more ketchup to mellow the flavor.
3. Step 3: Refrigerate the sauce for several hours to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled alongside the rinsed and chilled shrimp.

Tips & Variations

• For added zest, try stirring in a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend all ingredients briefly in a food processor.
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor.

Storage

Store the cocktail sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep shrimp chilled until serving. Leftover shrimp should be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days. Reheat is not recommended; serve shrimp cold for best texture and taste.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make cocktail sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors develop.

What type of shrimp is best for shrimp cocktail?

Large, cooked, tail-on shrimp work best as they are easy to peel and have a great texture for dipping.

Easy Shrimp Cocktail Sauce Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.6 from 133 reviews

• Author: Elara
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and easy shrimp cocktail sauce recipe that pairs perfectly with large cooked shrimp for a classic appetizer. This simple sauce combines ketchup, lemon juice, and horseradish for a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, ideal for entertaining or a light snack.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp

• 1 1/2 lbs large, cooked, tail-on shrimp, rinsed with cold water

Shrup Cocktail Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish

---

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the ketchup, lemon juice, and prepared horseradish into a bowl and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Adjust Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust according to your preference by adding more horseradish for extra spiciness or additional ketchup to mellow the flavor.
3. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the sauce for several hours or days ahead of time to allow flavors to meld. Serve the chilled sauce cold alongside the cooked shrimp for dipping.

Notes

• The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best tangy flavor.
• Adjust horseradish quantity to suit your preferred spice level.
• Serve the shrimp cold for optimal taste and texture.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: shrimp cocktail sauce, easy shrimp cocktail, seafood appetizer, horseradish sauce, quick dip