Bubba Gump Shrimp New Orleans Recipe

Shrimp dishes from New Orleans are famous for their bold flavors and rich sauces.

The Bubba Gump Shrimp Company brings a special twist to these dishes, inspired by the classic movie Forrest Gump.

This recipe captures the true taste of New Orleans shrimp while letting you recreate a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

The creamy, spicy sauce paired with perfectly seasoned shrimp makes it a standout dish.

With simple steps and common ingredients, this Bubba Gump Shrimp New Orleans Recipe is easy-to-make and full of flavor.

You will love the balance of spice, herbs, and cream that makes this dish both comforting and exciting.

If you are a shrimp lover or just curious to try something inspired by the movie, this recipe brings a touch of authentic Louisiana twist to your table. It’s easy to follow, yet gives an authentic taste of the region.

Why Is It Called Bubba Gump Shrimp?

The name “Bubba Gump Shrimp” comes straight from the movie Forrest Gump.

In the story, the character Bubba dreams of starting a shrimp business after sharing his love for shrimp with Forrest. Although Bubba never sees his dream come true in the film, Forrest honors his friend’s dream by opening a shrimp company.

In 1996, the fictional idea became a real restaurant chain called Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. The restaurants celebrate the movie while serving shrimp dishes inspired by Southern and New Orleans flavors.

They keep the spirit of Bubba and his shrimp passion alive with every dish, connecting fans of the film to the food.

What Is New Orleans Style?

New Orleans–style cooking comes from a mix of cultures, including French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.

People who moved to the city brought their own recipes and spices, which blended over time into something unique and special. Many dishes feature butter, cream, garlic, and hot peppers. The food is bold, full of flavor, and never boring.

Fresh seafood like shrimp and crawfish is a key part of New Orleans cooking. Cooks use plenty of herbs and spices, including thyme, basil, paprika, and cayenne.

Rich sauces made with cream and butter are common, and traditional techniques often involve simmering, sautéing, and slowly letting flavors come together.

Choosing the Right Shrimp for This Recipe

1. Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp tastes great, but frozen works just as well since most store shrimp was frozen first, so just thaw it in the fridge overnight and rinse before cooking.

2. Best Shrimp Size: Large or jumbo shrimp stay juicy and tender in the oven, while medium shrimp can work too, but they cook faster so you’ll need to watch them closely.

3. Wild-Caught or Farm-Raised: Wild-caught shrimp has a stronger flavor, while farm-raised shrimp is usually cheaper and easier to find, so either choice is fine depending on your budget and store options.

4. How to Clean and Devein: Peel the shell off but keep the tail for looks, then make a small cut along the back, remove the dark vein, rinse the shrimp under cold water, and pat them dry.

5. Signs of Quality Shrimp: Good shrimp should smell clean like the ocean, feel firm and shiny, and look clear or gray before cooking, while anything slimy or strongly fishy-smelling should be avoided.

Bubba Gump Shrimp New Orleans Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter – Butter adds richness and helps cook the onion and garlic. You can use olive oil instead, but butter gives better flavor.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion – Onion brings a sweet base to the sauce. Yellow onion works best, and shallots also work.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Garlic gives a strong, warm taste. Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch.
• 1/3 cup chicken stock – Chicken stock adds depth and helps thin the sauce. Vegetable or seafood stock can replace it.
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce – This adds tangy, savory flavor. Soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar can substitute, though the taste will change.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Lemon juice brightens the sauce and cuts through richness. Lime juice also works.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme gives earthy, herbal flavor. Use about three times more fresh thyme if substituting.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a sweet, peppery note. Use about three times more fresh basil for substitution.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Black pepper adds mild heat and depth. Freshly ground tastes best.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds spice and heat. Adjust to taste. Use paprika for a milder flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Salt balances the flavors. Sea salt or kosher salt both work.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce thick and smooth. Half-and-half creates a thinner sauce, and coconut cream works for dairy-free.

For the Shrimp Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons paprika – Paprika gives color and a gentle smoky taste. Smoked paprika adds even more flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Seasons the shrimp evenly. Any salt works fine.
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick. Freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor.
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth. Onion powder can boost the flavor if desired.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds sweetness and aroma. You can skip it if you don’t have it.
• Pinch of cayenne – Just a touch of heat. Leave it out if you prefer no spice.

For the Shrimp

• 1 to 1.25 pounds raw shrimp, cleaned and deveined – The main protein. Large or jumbo shrimp work best.
• 2–3 tablespoons melted butter – Brushed on the shrimp for moisture and browning. Olive oil can replace it.

For Serving

• 1 cup cooked rice per plate – White rice is classic. Brown rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice also work.
• Diced fresh tomato – Adds color and freshness. Cherry tomatoes work great. Use as much as you like.
• Sliced green onion – Adds mild onion flavor and bright color. Chives can substitute.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

1. Saucepan – For simmering sauce
2. Oven Tray – For baking shrimp
3. Mixing Bowl – For seasoning blend
4. Brush – For melted butter
5. Measuring Cups – For liquid amounts
6. Measuring Spoons – For spices
7. Knife – For chopping
8. Cutting Board – For safe prep
9. Spatula – For stirring sauce
10. Plate or Bowl – For serving

How To Make Bubba Gump Shrimp New Orleans at Home

Step 1 | Start the Sauce

Heat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Let them cook for one minute so they soften and release aroma. Stir often so nothing burns.

Step 2 | Build the Base

Pour in chicken stock and Worcestershire sauce. Add lemon juice, thyme, basil, black pepper, cayenne, and salt. Stir well to bring all flavors together. Let the mix cook for about three minutes so the spices bloom and the liquid warms through.

Step 3 | Add Cream and Thicken

Pour in heavy cream and stir again. When the sauce starts to bubble lightly, lower the heat to medium. Let it cook for about ten minutes. Stir now and then to keep it from sticking. It should become a bit thicker. Turn off the heat, cover the saucepan, and set it aside so it stays warm.

Step 4 | Make the Shrimp Seasoning

Place paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a small pinch of cayenne into a small bowl. Mix until smooth.

Step 5 | Season the Shrimp

Line an oven tray with baking paper. Arrange the cleaned shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle the seasoning over the top. Turn them over and season the other side. Brush melted butter over each piece so they brown well.

Step 6 | Bake the Shrimp

Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tray inside and let the shrimp bake for 7–8 minutes. They should turn pink, firm, and lightly browned.

Step 7 | Put It All Together

Scoop a cup of warm cooked rice onto a plate. Spoon the warm sauce around the rice. Lay the shrimp on top. Add more sauce as needed.

Sprinkle diced tomato and sliced green onion over the plate. Serve right away while everything is hot.

Cooking Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and curl slightly to stay tender and juicy.
• Adjust the Heat Level: Control the spice by changing the amount of cayenne in the sauce and shrimp seasoning. Start mild and add more next time if you want extra heat.
• Use Fresh Herbs When Possible: Fresh thyme or basil adds brighter, more vibrant flavor. Use about three times more fresh herbs than dried if you have them.
• Season in Layers: Even though the sauce is flavorful, seasoning the shrimp separately builds deeper, more balanced flavor.

What to Serve with New Orleans-Style Shrimp

This dish is rich and creamy, so I like to serve it with sides that balance it out. Rice is already part of the recipe, but you can add more sides.

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works well. You can also serve crusty bread on the side. Use it to scoop up the extra sauce.

Garlic bread is another great option. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or zucchini add color and texture.

For a true Louisiana meal, serve it with coleslaw or corn on the cob. Some people like to add a side of cornbread. It’s sweet and soft and soaks up the sauce beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover shrimp and sauce in the fridge inside a sealed container for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to keep the sauce smooth. Add a splash of stock or cream while warming to bring back the texture. Do not microwave on high, as shrimp can get tough.

Bubba Gump Shrimp New Orleans Recipe FAQs

1. Can I grill the shrimp instead of baking them?

Yes, you can grill shrimp for a smoky flavor. Thread them onto skewers or use a grill basket, brush with butter, and cook over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink with grill marks. They cook fast, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.

2. How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink, the flesh is opaque, and it curls into a loose “C” shape. Cook quickly (about 7-8 minutes) at 400°F – and check one shrimp by cutting it open; the inside should be white with no gray. Avoid overcooking, or it will become tough and chewy.

3. Why does my sauce taste too salty?

A salty sauce can happen if the chicken stock or seasoning blend contains extra sodium.

To fix this, add a little more cream or a splash of water to balance the taste. A small squeeze of lemon can also help brighten and soften the saltiness.

4. Why did my shrimp turn out chewy?

Chewy shrimp usually come from overcooking. Shrimp cook very fast, so even one extra minute can change the texture. Bake or grill them until they turn pink and firm but not rubbery.

Using larger shrimp helps since they stay tender longer. Proper thawing also helps keep the texture soft and juicy.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer over medium heat. The cream will slowly reduce and become richer.

You can also add one extra tablespoon of heavy cream to boost thickness. Another method is to let the sauce rest after cooking, because cooling helps it set.

This Bubba Gump Shrimp New Orleans Recipe delivers authentic New Orleans flavors with a creamy, spicy sauce and perfectly seasoned shrimp. It reflects both the movie’s story and the warm, bold Cajun spirit. Adjust the spices to your liking and savor the result.

I hope you try this dish and share your own version with family and friends.