Bubba Gump Copycat Shrimp

This version of Bubba Gump shrimp brings all the buttery spice and Southern charm of the restaurant right to your home kitchen. From the rich, aromatic sauce to the tender shrimp, it is a dish that feels both nostalgic and special—perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something bold and comforting.

I first whipped up this shrimp for a movie night with friends and instantly knew it would become a regular request. Nothing beats piling saucy shrimp over bread and soaking up every drop.

Ingredients

• Butter: brings a creamy richness and gloss to the sauce Choose unsalted for full control over seasoning
• Fresh garlic cloves: punch up the flavor and create a mouthwatering aroma Mince them fine for even cooking
• Tomato paste: deepens the color and adds savory-sweet depth Opt for double concentrate if it is available
• Chicken bouillon cube: boosts umami and creates a full-bodied broth Look for low-sodium if you want to reduce salt
• Cajun seasoning: is the heart of this recipe Choose one with smoky undertones or mix your own blend for a personal touch
• Worcestershire sauce: balances savory and tangy flavors Pick a quality bottle for the most well-rounded taste
• Sugar and cayenne pepper: offset the richness and add heat Adjust to your spice preference
• Good black pepper: gives the dish gentle warmth Use freshly cracked for best results
• Clam juice: adds subtle brininess and mimics classic seafood stock Find it near canned seafood or ask your fishmonger
• White wine: adds acidity and complexity A crisp dry varietal such as Sauvignon Blanc is ideal
• Paprika: gives a sweet-smoky backdrop Smoked or sweet paprika both work well
• Medium shrimp: must be peeled and deveined for the best texture Try to get fresh if possible but thawed frozen shrimp will shine
• Choose the freshest ingredients you can for best results: The shrimp and garlic are your superstars so splurge a little if possible

Instructions

Make the Broth:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat add the butter and allow it to melt until foamy Once melted scatter in the minced garlic Stir frequently until the garlic is golden and aromatic about one minute—do not let it brown because it gets bitter Add tomato paste and press it into the butter with your spoon to wake up its flavors Then add crumbled chicken bouillon Cajun seasoning Worcestershire sauce sugar cayenne black pepper clam juice water and white wine Whisk well so everything dissolves Bring the mixture to a bubbling boil

Simmer the Sauce:

Once boiling reduce the heat so the liquid settles into a gentle simmer Let the sauce cook uncovered for about five minutes This time lets the flavors meld and the broth reduce slightly so it clings to the shrimp later Stir once or twice so nothing sticks

Sauté the Shrimp:

While the broth simmers heat a large skillet over medium flame Melt the rest of the butter until just bubbling Add Worcestershire sauce black pepper Cajun seasoning fresh minced garlic and paprika Stir these together so the spices bloom in the hot butter creating a deep fragrance Add all the shrimp in one layer and cook for two to three minutes turning often As soon as the shrimp turn pink and opaque remove the pan from the heat to avoid overcooking

Combine and Serve:

Tip the sautéed shrimp into the saucepan with the broth Give everything a gentle stir so the shrimp soak up the spicy butter sauce Taste and adjust the seasoning Serve hot with plenty of fresh bread or spoon over fluffy rice to soak up every drop

I always look forward to the aroma that fills my house when those spices hit the pan—Cajun seasoning just smells like a celebration Growing up my family would gather around the table to dip crusty bread in the glistening sauce and tell stories

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the shrimp tender and juicy Avoid microwaving for best texture

Swaps and Substitutions

If you cannot find clam juice try using seafood or chicken broth as a substitute Smoked paprika instead of sweet adds a rich twist For extra heat add more cayenne or toss in a few red pepper flakes If you do not have white wine increase water and a splash of lemon juice for acidity

Serving Ideas

Pile shrimp and sauce over steamed white rice or creamy grits for a comforting meal I love scattering chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon on top For parties serve in a big bowl with rustic bread so everyone can dig in

Shrimp and Southern Food Traditions

This dish riffs on classic Louisiana shrimp bakes and spicy Southern shrimp boils It is inspired by Bubba Gump’s famous take and echoes the vibrant Creole and Cajun flavors of the Gulf coast

Seasonal Adaptations

Add sweet corn in summer for color and crunch Toss in sautéed peppers for late summer harvest time Try using crab or scallops for a luxurious spin when they are fresh

Success Stories

The first time I made this recipe for my parents they could not believe it was not restaurant takeout It has since turned into a birthday dinner tradition My neighbor even asks for a batch every time we get together making this shrimp recipe a true crowd favorite

Freezer Meal Conversion

Prep the sauce base ahead of time and freeze it in a zip-top bag Defrost and reheat gently on the stovetop then add fresh shrimp for a nearly instant dinner This works especially well if you want a quick solution for a busy weeknight

This Bubba Gump-inspired shrimp is bold comfort food at its best. Enjoy every bite with friends and family for a flavor-packed celebration.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the sauce flavorful?

The sauce uses a blend of Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire, tomato paste, wine, and clam juice for rich, savory tones.

→ Can I use a seafood bouillon cube instead of chicken?

Yes, seafood bouillon can intensify ocean flavors if preferred over chicken for the broth base.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from cayenne and Cajun spices, but amounts can be adjusted for your heat preference.

→ What shrimp size is best?

Medium, peeled, and deveined shrimp cook quickly and absorb the sauce well for best results.

→ How should I serve this dish?

It's delicious served over steamed rice or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

→ Can I substitute butter with oil?

Butter adds richness, but olive oil can be used for a slightly different flavor.