Shrimp cocktail is simple by design. When the shrimp are high quality and properly cooked, the sauce should support the flavor, not overwhelm it. A good shrimp cocktail sauce is bright, balanced, and easy to make, using ingredients most people already have in the kitchen.

At Maine Shelled Lobster, we focus on helping seafood lovers get the most out of every product they order. Whether it’s Maine lobster meat or super colossal shrimp, our goal is to remove guesswork and make great seafood approachable at home. This shrimp cocktail sauce follows that same philosophy. It is straightforward, dependable, and flexible enough to suit different tastes.

This guide walks through two versions of shrimp cocktail sauce. One is classic and mild. The other adds extra heat while still letting the natural sweetness of shrimp come through.

Start With Quality Shrimp

Shrimp cocktail puts the spotlight directly on the shrimp. Size, texture, and flavor matter.

Our Super Colossal White Shrimp are a natural fit for shrimp cocktail. With just 8 to 12 shrimp per pound, each shrimp offers a firm, meaty bite that holds up well when chilled. They are peeled, deveined, and tail on, which keeps preparation simple and makes them easy to serve and dip.

Because these shrimp are Individually Quick Frozen, you can thaw only what you need and maintain excellent texture. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs especially well with bright, tomato-based sauces and fresh citrus.

Before making the sauce, cook your shrimp gently and chill them fully. Shrimp cocktail is best served cold, with shrimp that are tender, not rubbery.

Classic Mild Shrimp Cocktail Sauce

This version is balanced and familiar, with just enough horseradish to add warmth without heat. It complements shrimp without masking their natural flavor.

Ingredients

• Ketchup
• Prepared horseradish
• Fresh lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt

How to Make It

In a small bowl, combine the ketchup and prepared horseradish. Stir until smooth.

Add fresh lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well. Taste and season lightly with salt if needed. The sauce should taste bright and slightly tangy, not overly sweet.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving. Resting time allows the flavors to come together and soften.

Spicy Shrimp Cocktail Sauce

This version brings more heat and depth while staying balanced. It is bold without overpowering the shrimp.

Ingredients

• Ketchup
• Prepared horseradish
• Fresh lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce
• Smoked paprika
• Kosher salt

How to Make It

Stir the ketchup and horseradish together until smooth. Add lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a small amount of hot sauce to start.

Mix in smoked paprika and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust heat gradually. The sauce should be spicy but still bright and clean.

Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the spice mellow slightly.

Serving Shrimp Cocktail

Serve shrimp fully chilled with the tails on for easy dipping. Arrange them around a bowl of sauce or offer both mild and spicy versions so guests can choose.

Shrimp cocktail pairs naturally with other seafood, making it a great addition to a Maine lobster spread. Serve alongside chilled lobster meat, drawn butter, or a simple lemon wedge for a classic New England-inspired appetizer.

Why Simple Works

Shrimp cocktail does not need to be complicated to be memorable. When you start with well-sourced, properly handled seafood, simple preparation allows the quality to speak for itself.

At Maine Shelled Lobster, we believe seafood should feel approachable, whether you grew up near the coast or in the Midwest with New England roots at the table. From lobster meat to super colossal shrimp, our mission is to make great seafood easier to enjoy at home, one simple recipe at a time.