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Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Sauce inspired by Hilltop Steakhouse
Inspired by Hilltop Steakhouse

Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Sauce

Appetizer Dairy-Free
A timeless American appetizer featuring chilled jumbo shrimp arranged around a dish of zesty cocktail sauce. The contrast between the cold, tender shrimp and the bold, tangy sauce creates a refreshing start to any meal that highlights quality seafood preparation.
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Inactive Time 60 mins
Total Time 80 mins
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Large shrimp (16-20 count, peeled and deveined with tails on)
  • 2 whole Bay leaves
  • 1 whole Lemon (Half sliced, half for juice)
  • 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup
  • 2 tbsp Prepared horseradish (Adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp Hot sauce (Tabasco or similar)
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt
  • 2 cups Ice (For chilling shrimp)

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for sauce
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Chef's Tip

Avoid overcooking the shrimp by removing them from the boiling water as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their tender texture.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the poaching liquid: Fill a large pot with water, add bay leaves, lemon slices, Old Bay seasoning, and 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil.
  2. Add shrimp to the boiling water and cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes depending on size.
  3. Immediately drain shrimp and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let chill for 5 minutes.
  4. While shrimp are chilling, prepare the cocktail sauce by combining ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
  5. Drain the shrimp thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
  6. Refrigerate shrimp and cocktail sauce separately for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly chilled.
  7. Just before serving, arrange shrimp around the edge of a serving dish with cocktail sauce in the center.

Plating

Arrange chilled shrimp around the rim of a martini glass or small bowl with tails facing outward. Place cocktail sauce in the center depression. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a small sprig of parsley.

Storage & Reheating

The cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cocktail sauce will keep for up to 1 week refrigerated. Do not freeze.

About This Recipe

This classic shrimp cocktail takes inspiration from the timeless appetizer that was a staple at the Hilltop Steakhouse. The simple preparation lets the quality of fresh shrimp shine, while the zesty homemade cocktail sauce provides the perfect complement with its horseradish kick and tangy finish.

How did it turn out?

We'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe!