We all love shrimp, but nothing ruins a good meal faster than overcooked, rubbery seafood.

That's why we decided to put multiple cooking methods to the test and find the absolute best way to prepare shrimp.

From searing to roasting, frying to boiling, we examined every detail—flavor, texture, and efficiency. Whether you prefer crispy fried shrimp or juicy, buttery bites, we've got the ultimate guide for you!

Searing: Quick & Flavorful

Searing shrimp in butter and garlic creates a deliciously rich, slightly crispy texture. We found that leaving the shell on helps lock in moisture and enhances the flavor. While peeled shrimp work fine, the shell-on version was undeniably juicier. This method is fast and perfect when you need a quick shrimp fix!

Pros: Fast and flavorful.

Cons: Peeled shrimp can turn out a little dry.

Roasting: Sweet & Succulent

Roasting shrimp at high heat brings out their natural sweetness and allows flavors like garlic and lemon to caramelize beautifully. Though it takes a few extra minutes compared to searing, the result is tender, juicy shrimp with incredible depth of flavor.

Pros: Intensely flavorful with a soft texture.

Cons: Takes slightly longer than other methods.

Frying: Crispy & Addictive

For those who love a crispy bite, frying is the ultimate treat. Coating shrimp in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly juicy. This method is ideal for serving as an appetizer or in a shrimp po'boy sandwich.

Pros: Crispy, well-seasoned, and addictive.

Cons: Requires more steps and cleanup.

Braising: Deeply Flavored & Satisfying

Braising shrimp in a flavorful sauce made with peppers, onions, garlic, and lemon creates an irresistible dish. The slow cooking process allows the shrimp to absorb all the seasonings, making every bite rich and satisfying. If you love bold flavors, this is the method to try!

Pros: The sauce is so good, you'll want to drink it!

Cons: Requires a blender or food processor.

Simmering: Buttery & Tender

Cooking shrimp in a buttery, garlicky drinks sauce results in soft, flavorful bites that pair perfectly with pasta or crusty bread. This method, often known as shrimp scampi, delivers a luxurious texture and a mouthwatering broth.

Pros: Deliciously tender with a rich sauce.

Cons: Slightly less tender than braised shrimp.

Broiling: Fast but Less Flavorful

Broiling is one of the quickest ways to cook shrimp, but it can lead to slightly tough results if not done carefully. The high heat helps develop a nice char, but compared to roasting or braising, the shrimp lacked the same depth of flavor.

Pros: Super fast with minimal cleanup.

Cons: Shrimp can become a bit chewy.

Boiling: Simple & Juicy

Boiling shrimp in salted water is an easy, foolproof method that yields tender results. However, without additional seasoning, the flavor can be a bit plain. This method works best when paired with a dipping sauce or cooked alongside other seafood and spices.

Pros: Soft, juicy shrimp every time.

Cons: A bit bland without added flavors.

Final Verdict: The Best Method for Cooking Shrimp

If you want the easiest and most flavorful shrimp, roasting is the way to go. If you love crispy bites, frying is a winner. For a rich, saucy dish, braising is unbeatable.

No matter your preference, we hope this guide helps you achieve shrimp perfection every time!