How long to cook shrimp?

Use the timer to make juicy shrimp.

Shrimp cooking time: how to prepare them perfectly

Shrimp are not only a delicious treat but also a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Properly cooked shrimp have a tender flavor and juicy texture. In this article, you’ll learn how long to boil shrimp based on their type, whether they’re frozen, jumbo, or shell-on. We’ll also share tips on how to bring out their best flavor while preserving their nutritional benefits. The process is straightforward; the key is to stick to the correct cooking time, and our handy timer will guide you along the way.

How long to boil shrimp?

Before cooking, shrimp should always be thawed. Raw shrimp require full cooking, while pre-cooked frozen shrimp have already been heat-treated and need only a quick thaw or brief warming. To keep shrimp juicy and tender, it's essential to monitor the cooking time. The table below shows the recommended boiling times for various types of shrimp after thawing. You can use the timer for precision or set your own time according to your preferences.

Our timer can be easily adjusted for any type of shrimp—select the recommended time from the table or set your own time for precise cooking control.

How to boil shrimp with Old Bay

The main spices in Old Bay seasoning include celery salt, red and black pepper, and paprika. For this recipe, you’ll need butter, beer, water, large shrimp, and for the sauce, ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper.

• In a large pot, combine beer, water, butter, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Add the shrimp, reduce the heat to medium, and cover the pot. Cook the shrimp for 3–6 minutes or until they turn pink and are tender, stirring once during cooking.
• To make the horseradish sauce, mix ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl until well blended.
• Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Serve with beer, the horseradish cocktail sauce, and don't forget a lot of napkins.

Helpful tips and tricks for cooking shrimp

To ensure your shrimp turn out tender, juicy, and retain their nutritional value, it’s important not only to watch the cooking time but also to follow a few simple tips and tricks. Below are some helpful tips to make your shrimp perfectly delicious every time.

• Thaw properly: For the best results, if you have time, thaw shrimp on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator for 7-12 hours, depending on their size and quantity. If you’re short on time, place them in a bowl under a stream of cold water. Avoid hot water or room temperature thawing, as these can affect the flavor.
• Don’t overcook: It’s essential not to overcook shrimp, as they can quickly lose their juiciness and become rubbery. To avoid this, stick closely to the recommended cooking times for your type of shrimp.
• Shell on or off: Shrimp can be boiled with or without the shell. The shell helps retain moisture and flavor, protecting the meat. If you cook them with the shell, make sure to peel them before serving, leaving the tail on for easier handling if desired.
• Add flavor: To boost the flavor, add salt, bay leaves, peppercorns, and a bit of lemon juice to the water. This enhances the aroma and gives the final dish a slight zest.
• Be cautious with salted water: If boiling shrimp in salted water, be mindful of the amount, as shrimp easily absorb salt and can become overly salty. Consider using minimal salt, or skip it if you plan to add sauces or seasonings afterward.
• Chill before serving: If you’re preparing shrimp for salads or cold appetizers, place them in ice water for a few minutes after cooking. This stops the cooking process and makes the meat firmer, preserving its juiciness.

How to cook shrimp: step-by-step guide

Before cooking shrimp, it’s important to thaw them properly, as described above. Only cook fresh-frozen shrimp, following a few simple steps to make them juicy and flavorful.

• Rinse the shrimp under running water to remove any remaining ice or possible impurities.
• Bring a pot of water to a boil. The water volume should be twice the volume of the shrimp. When the water boils, add salt and spices to taste, such as bay leaves, peppercorns, rosemary, and a few slices of garlic or lemon.
• Place the shrimp in the boiling water, reduce the heat to low, and occasionally skim off any foam with a slotted spoon. Cook the shrimp based on their size: small (Atlantic) – 2 minutes, medium (Argentine) – 4-6 minutes, large (king and tiger) – 8-10 minutes. Shrimp are done when they turn from gray to pink, and the shells become translucent.
• Immediately after boiling, transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice. This will give them a firmer texture, enhance the flavor, and make peeling easier.
• Peel the shrimp by making a cut along the back with a sharp knife or scissors. Remove the head, tail, and the dark “vein” (intestine).
• Serve the shrimp as a standalone dish with a wedge of lemon or lime for added flavor, or use them as an ingredient in other recipes.