Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

This Gordon Ramsay-Style Shrimp Cocktail Recipe is a spicy and classic recipe, which is made with prepared horseradish and Old Bay seasoning. It’s the perfect party appetizer, ready in about 20 minutes.

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Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Cocktail Recipe Ingredients

For the cocktail sauce:

• 120g Heinz Chili Sauce
• 240g ketchup
• 15g prepared horseradish
• 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
• 15ml lemon juice
• 2.5g Tabasco sauce (or more)
• 1/2 clove garlic, finely minced
• 15g chopped cilantro (optional)

For the shrimp:

• 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 lemon, halved
• 5g garlic powder
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 5g salt
• 24 extra-large raw shrimp, tail-on

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Cocktail

1. Make the cocktail sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chili sauce, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Tabasco, minced garlic, and cilantro (if using). Cover and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. Prepare the cooking liquid: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the Old Bay seasoning, the halved lemon, garlic powder, minced garlic, chili powder, and salt.
3. Cook the shrimp: Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water. Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for just 1–2 minutes, until they are pink, curled, and opaque.
4. Chill the shrimp: Immediately use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to the ice bath. Let them chill for at least 2 minutes to stop the cooking process completely.
5. Serve: Drain the shrimp well. Serve the chilled shrimp with the cold cocktail sauce for dipping.

Recipe Tips

• How do I cook the shrimp perfectly? The key is to not overcook them. Shrimp cook in just a couple of minutes. They are done as soon as they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
• Why is the ice bath so important? The ice bath is a crucial, non-negotiable step. It immediately stops the cooking process, which is essential for preventing tough, overcooked shrimp. It also ensures the shrimp are perfectly chilled for serving.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead appetizer. The cocktail sauce’s flavor actually improves after a few hours in the fridge. You can also cook and chill the shrimp a day in advance. Store the sauce and shrimp in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• What kind of shrimp should I use? For the best presentation and a satisfying bite, use extra-large or jumbo shrimp. Make sure they are raw, and you can buy them already peeled and deveined to save time.

What To Serve With Shrimp Cocktail

This classic appetizer is a standalone star. It’s traditionally served simply with:

• Extra lemon wedges for squeezing
• A few saltine or buttery crackers on the side
• A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

How To Store Shrimp Cocktail

Refrigerate: Store the cocktail sauce and the cooked, chilled shrimp in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze: Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as it will ruin the texture of the shrimp.

Shrimp Cocktail Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 281kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 1500mg

Nutrition information is estimated per serving and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Try More Recipes:

• Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Recipe
• Gordon Ramsay’s Mushroom Risotto Recipe
• Gordon Ramsay Lobster Wellington Recipe