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Old Bay Boiled Shrimp Charcuterie Board Easy Party Recipe with Cocktail Sauce

Old Bay boiled shrimp charcuterie board - featured image

A quick and easy Old Bay boiled shrimp charcuterie board featuring flavorful shrimp and a tangy homemade cocktail sauce, perfect for parties and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for presentation)
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (for boiling) plus extra for sprinkling
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 large lemon, halved (for boiling and garnish)
  • Cocktail Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Charcuterie Board Accompaniments:
  • Assorted crackers or toasted baguette slices
  • Crunchy veggies like celery sticks, cucumber slices, or cherry tomatoes
  • Cheese cubes or slices (sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or creamy brie)
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the boiling water: In a large pot, combine 6 cups water, 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, and the halved lemon. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Boil for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp turn bright pink and curl slightly.
  3. Drain and chill: Use a slotted spoon to remove shrimp and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Chill for about 5 minutes, then drain well on paper towels.
  4. Make the cocktail sauce: Whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust heat to taste. Refrigerate until serving.
  5. Assemble the charcuterie board: Arrange boiled shrimp on a serving board. Sprinkle extra Old Bay seasoning over shrimp. Place small bowls of cocktail sauce nearby.
  6. Add accompaniments: Surround shrimp with crackers, cheese cubes, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herb sprigs for texture and color balance.
  7. Final touches: Garnish the board with lemon wedges. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pot when boiling shrimp to ensure even cooking. Chill shrimp in ice water immediately after boiling to keep them tender and fresh. Cocktail sauce can be made a day ahead to enhance flavors. For gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers or only veggies. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Old Bay shrimp, boiled shrimp, charcuterie board, cocktail sauce, party appetizer, easy shrimp recipe, seafood appetizer