Old Bay Seasoning Steamed Shrimp Recipe: Maryland-Style Bay Flavor

This Maryland-style steamed shrimp captures the essence of coastal tradition with a simple yet flavorful approach.

Old Bay seasoning infuses the shrimp with its signature blend of spices, creating a dish that’s both classic and easy to prepare. The steam locks in moisture, ensuring tender, juicy shrimp every time.

Ingredients for Old Bay Seasoning Steamed Shrimp

Fresh shrimp, bold spices, and a cold beer create this coastal classic effortlessly.

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The shrimp quality is paramount—wild-caught Gulf or Atlantic shrimp yield the best texture and flavor. 16/20 count per pound is ideal for steaming, as they hold up well to the heat. McCormick Old Bay is the gold standard here, but any Maryland-style seasoning blend works. Purchase shrimp with tails on for presentation; the shell helps retain moisture during cooking. For the beer, a light lager like Budweiser or Miller Lite complements without overpowering.

Out of Old Bay? Combine celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne at a 2:1:1:0.5 ratio for a serviceable substitute. No beer? White wine or apple cider vinegar mixed with water (1:3 ratio) provides acidity. Shrimp can be frozen (thaw in cold water first), but fresh is preferable. For extra richness, swap butter for olive oil in the dipping sauce.

Steamed shrimp are best served immediately but can be refrigerated for 24 hours. Reheat gently in a steamer or microwave with a damp paper towel. The dipping sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Always discard any uncooked marinade that touched raw shrimp.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Bay Steamed Shrimp

Achieve perfect Maryland-style flavor with this straightforward steaming technique.

Step 1: Prepare the Steaming Liquid Base

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven with a fitted steamer basket, combine the 12 oz beer, 1 cup water, 1 tbsp kosher salt, 2 whole bay leaves, 4 cloves garlic cloves, and 1 tsp black peppercorns. Bring this liquid to a rolling boil over high heat.

As the liquid heats, you’ll notice the aroma of the garlic and spices intensifying. This forms the flavor foundation for the shrimp. I always use a light beer here—its mild flavor complements without overpowering the Old Bay seasoning.

Step 2: Season and Layer the Shrimp

While the liquid comes to a boil, toss the 2 lb large shrimp with 0.25 cup Old Bay Seasoning in a large bowl. I use my hands to ensure every shrimp is evenly coated—the seasoning should cling visibly to the shells.

Once the liquid is boiling vigorously, place the shrimp in the steamer basket in a single layer, if possible. If you need to stack them, that’s fine, but try not to overcrowd the basket. The steam needs room to circulate for even cooking.

Step 3: Steam to Perfect Doneness

Carefully lower the steamer basket into the pot, ensuring it sits above the liquid. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-high. Steam the shrimp for 6-8 minutes—this is the sweet spot for large shrimp.

You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn from translucent to opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. The shells should be bright pink and the Old Bay seasoning will have created a beautiful crust. Don’t overcook; shrimp continue cooking slightly after removal from the steam.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove the steamer basket from the pot and transfer the shrimp to a large serving platter. Slice the 1 whole lemon and arrange the slices around the shrimp for serving. The acidity will cut through the richness beautifully.

Melt the 4 tbsp unsalted butter and pour it into small ramekins for dipping. Chop the 0.25 cup fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the shrimp for a fresh finish. Serve the 1 tbsp hot sauce on the side for those who want extra heat. The shrimp should be tender with a snappy bite, and every piece should carry that signature Old Bay punch.

Storing and Reheating This old bay seasoning steamed shrimp

Refrigerator Storage

Let your shrimp cool completely before storing—I spread them on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes to speed this up. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The Old Bay flavor actually deepens overnight. ❄️

Freezer Storage

For longer storage, freeze shrimp in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for 2-3 months without losing texture. Squeeze out all air to prevent freezer burn. Label bags with the date—I use Ziploc freezer bags for this.

Steam Reheating

This is my top method for keeping shrimp tender. Place them in a steamer basket over 1 inch simmering water for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of beer to the water for extra flavor. 🔥

Microwave Reheating

For quick meals, arrange shrimp in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes. Check and repeat in 30-second bursts until warm.

Dipping Sauce Storage

The melted butter sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it separates, just whisk vigorously to re-emulsify.

Frequently Asked Questions