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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: For this dish, large shrimp are best since they soak up the glaze wonderfully. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice, you can use frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

Butter or Olive Oil: I usually prefer butter for its rich flavor, but olive oil is a great option for a lighter taste. If you need it dairy-free, stick with olive oil or any other cooking oil you have on hand.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.

Bourbon: A key ingredient for that unique flavor, but feel free to swap it out with whiskey or even a non-alcoholic bourbon-like product if you want to keep it family-friendly.

Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely sweetness. You could use white sugar, honey, or maple syrup, but brown sugar brings that depth of flavor that’s hard to substitute perfectly.

How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?

Getting shrimp just right can be tricky. Overcook them, and they turn rubbery. Follow these steps for the best results:

• Start with a hot skillet to help sear the shrimp quickly.
• Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side; they’ll turn pink and opaque when done.
• Keep your shrimp moving in the pan to cook evenly. As soon as they look cooked, remove them to prevent cooking further.

What’s the Best Way to Make the Bourbon Glaze?

Creating a perfect bourbon glaze elevates your shrimp dish. Here’s how to do it:

• After removing the shrimp, reduce the heat for the garlic to cook slowly and develop flavor.
• When adding the bourbon, do it carefully—keep a safe distance, as it may flame up!
• Let the bourbon simmer for a couple of minutes before adding the other ingredients to allow some alcohol to cook off, enhancing the flavor.
• Stir constantly as the sauce thickens—you’ll want it to become a nice glossy coating for your shrimp.

Follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone with your bourbon glazed shrimp!

How to Make Bourbon Glazed Shrimp

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off per preference)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Bourbon Glaze:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for slight tang)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• Green onions, thinly sliced

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. You can whip up the bourbon glazed shrimp quickly and enjoy a fantastic meal in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt and pepper. This little step makes sure each shrimp is flavorful!

2. Cook the Shrimp:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them to turn pink and just be cooked through. When done, carefully remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

3. Make the Garlic & Bourbon Sauce:

Next, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Now, carefully add the bourbon whiskey to the skillet (it might flame up, so take caution). Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly, letting that bourbon flavor shine through.

4. Mix in the Glaze Ingredients:

Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Keep cooking this sauce while stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens and becomes glossy. You’ll love the smell!

5. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:

Now, return the shrimp to the skillet. Toss them around in the delicious bourbon glaze to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through and let those flavors meld together.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the glazed shrimp to a serving dish and sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Serve immediately, ideally with rice, crusty bread, or a side of vegetables, and enjoy a delightful meal!

This recipe makes tender shrimp coated in a rich, sweet, savory bourbon glaze with subtle smokiness and a hint of spice. It’s sure to impress!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by submerging the sealed shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning!

How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?

If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the red pepper flakes entirely. For a bit more heat, you can add extra flakes or even a splash of hot sauce to the glaze while cooking!

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the shrimp and combine them with the pre-made glaze for an easy meal!