Classic Old Bay Steamed Shrimp Recipe

Twenty years ago we started a tradition of preparing and eating seafood for New Year’s Eve. We start 1-2 days ahead of time preparing the crab legs, steamed shrimp, oysters, and homemade clam chowder. Then on New Year’s Eve we sit down and enjoy a seafood feast!

When it comes to preparing shrimp we prefer to steam it in Old Bay Seasoning and follow the directions right on the package. You can use less seasoning if you like it less spicey or add more if you prefer it with a lot of heat. You can definitely tailor it to your own taste buds.

Classic Old Bay Steamed Shrimp Recipe

1/2 cup Old Bay Seasoning
White Vinegar or Beer
Water
2 Dozen of Fresh or Thawed Large Shrimp

Note: We use this same recipe when steaming crabs. We use Lite Beer if we’re using beer instead of the vinegar.

Pour equal amounts of vinegar or beer and water to steamer or large pot with steaming rack, so that the liquid is just below the rack. Bring to a full boil. Place the shrimp on the rack, sprinkling each layer generously with Old Bay Seasoning. Cover pot.

Steam for 20-30 minutes or until shrimp turn pink in color. It should only take 3-5 minutes if that. Remove from water and let cool before serving. We like to place them into a bowl with a lid, refrigerate for 2-3 hours and then enjoy.

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