Some recipes are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration of bold, uncomplicated flavors that come together in minutes. For me, this low-carb Maryland-style Style Old Bay Shrimp recipe takes me back to summer evenings at my grandmother’s kitchen in Annapolis.
The briny aroma of fresh shrimp sizzling in butter and the unmistakable kick of Old Bay seasoning make this dish a sensory delight. Best of all, it’s low in carbs but packed with flavor, making it a guilt-free indulgence whether you’re focused on weight loss or just looking for a lighter meal.
Old Bay is synonymous with Maryland seafood, a seasoning blend steeped in history that transforms ordinary shrimp into something unforgettable. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. A handful of pantry staples—garlic, lemon, butter, and, of course, Old Bay—turn shrimp into a protein-packed dish ready in under 15 minutes.
This recipe is trending for good reason: shrimp is not only rich in protein but also a natural source of selenium and iodine, essential for metabolism and energy. Ready to bring bold, breezy coastal flavors to your table? Let’s dive in!
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- Lightning-fast prep: Ready in 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
- Big on flavor, low on carbs: Every bite is a punch of garlic, citrus, and Old Bay, without the carb overload.
- Versatility that wows: Serve it over zucchini noodles, in lettuce wraps for a comforting low-carb option.
- Crowd-pleaser: Even the pickiest eaters (or non-seafood fans) are won over by the buttery, aromatic appeal of this dish.
- Health benefits abound: High in protein, shrimp supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Low Carb Maryland Style Old Bay Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving platter
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- ½ lemon
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup beer
- 2 lbs extra large shrimp, shell split and deveined, thawed if frozen
- 3 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
- Place a large pot on the stove and add Old Bay seasoning, butter, beer, and water.
- Heat the mixture over high heat until it begins to boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium to maintain a steady simmer.
- Add the shrimp to the pot, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the liquid.
- Cover the pot with a lid to trap the steam and allow the shrimp to cook.
- Let the shrimp cook for 3 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter, spreading them out in an even layer.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the shrimp and sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh, raw shrimp for the best texture and flavor, preferably deveined and with shells on for authenticity.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the beer with equal parts water or seafood stock.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 220kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 31g |
Tips To Ease Your Job!
- Pre-Measured Ingredients: Measure out the Old Bay seasoning, butter, beer, and water before you start cooking to streamline the process.
- Prep Shrimp Ahead: If using shell-on shrimp, peel and devein them in advance to save time during cooking.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze lemons ahead of time and store the juice in the fridge for a quick finish.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Maintain a gentle simmer when cooking shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Layer Flavors: Add a touch of Old Bay to the beer broth as it boils, then finish with more seasoning after cooking for a bold, layered taste.
