Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

Christmas Shrimp Cocktail is a holiday favorite that brings elegance and taste to your table. This recipe is simple to prepare but looks fancy enough for your special Christmas feast. It’s the perfect appetizer to impress guests, with its tangy cocktail sauce and tender shrimp. My family loves this dish every year, and I’m excited to share it with you.

I’ve always felt that appetizers set the tone for any holiday meal, and this shrimp cocktail does it beautifully. The shrimp is juicy and flavorful, while the sauce adds a zing that leaves everyone asking for more.
This dish is perfect for anyone who wants a no-fuss, classy starter without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, you’ll love how quickly it comes together.

Christmas Shrimp Cocktail makes the holidays even more special. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that is as festive as it is delicious. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a tradition for years to come!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.

Christmas Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Jessica Wilson

A classic Christmas appetizer, this shrimp cocktail combines perfectly cooked shrimp with a zesty, homemade cocktail sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s elegant enough for any holiday celebration. Serve it chilled in individual glasses or on a platter with lemon wedges for the perfect party starter. This recipe takes less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy holiday evenings. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s a dish that will add joy and flavor to your Christmas table.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Additional Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Persons

Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb Large Shrimp Peeled And Deveined
1 tbsp Salt
1 Lemon Sliced
4 Cups Water

For The Cocktail Sauce

½ Cup Ketchup
2 tbsp Horseradish
1 tbsp Lemon Juice
1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
A Dash Of Hot Sauce Optional

Optional Toppings

Lemon Wedges
Fresh Parsley Chopped

Instructions

Prepare The Shrimp: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water, salt, and lemon slices to a boil.
Cook The Shrimp: Add shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until pink and opaque.
Cool The Shrimp: Remove shrimp from the water and place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Let them chill for 10 minutes.
Make The Sauce: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce if using. Stir until well combined.
Assemble And Serve: Arrange the chilled shrimp on a platter or individual glasses. Serve with the cocktail sauce and optional toppings like lemon wedges and parsley.

Video

Notes

Use Fresh Shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can also work if thawed properly.
You can adjust the spiciness of the cocktail sauce by adding more or less hot sauce.
For extra flavor, add a bay leaf to the boiling water when cooking shrimp.
If making ahead, prepare the shrimp and sauce separately, and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Presentation matters: Serve in clear glasses or a large platter with festive garnishes for a holiday feel.

Keyword Christmas, Festive, Party, Quick, Shrimp

appetizer Christmas cocktail easy festive party Shrimp

Christmas Shrimp Cocktail Recipe 5/5 (1)