Shrimp Newburg is one of those classic dishes that manages to be both elegantly sophisticated and comforting at the same time. The first time I made this rich, creamy creation, I was transported back to my grandmother’s dining room where special occasions always meant something decadent on the table. The tender shrimp bathed in a velvety cognac-kissed sauce creates a luxurious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight cooking, this Shrimp Newburg recipe promises restaurant-quality results with surprisingly little effort.
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Shrimp Newburg Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This shrimp Newburg is creamy, buttery, and luxurious—yet surprisingly simple. Tender shrimp simmered in a rich sherry-spiked sauce, ready in just 30 minutes. A perfect comfort dish for brunch or special dinners!
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup milk
2 tbsp dry sherry (or white wine)
2 egg yolks
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Toasted puff pastry shells, rice, or toast points, for serving
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
2. Slowly whisk in cream and milk. Cook, stirring, until sauce begins to thicken (about 3–4 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks with sherry. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot sauce to temper the eggs.
4. Stir egg-sherry mixture into skillet. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened—do not boil.
5. Add shrimp, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve over puff pastry shells, rice, or toast. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
• Don’t skip tempering the yolks—it prevents curdling.
• Use cooked lobster or crab instead of shrimp for a twist.
• Best served immediately but can be gently reheated over low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Classic American
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Newburg Recipe
Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures
There’s something magical about the way the sweet, tender shrimp mingles with the rich, buttery sauce in this recipe. The delicate seafood flavor shines through while being complemented by the warm notes of cognac or sherry. I love how the sauce coats each shrimp perfectly, creating little pockets of flavor with every bite. The slight tanginess from the lemon juice brightens everything up, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy. It’s this perfect balance that makes Shrimp Newburg so addictive – sophisticated enough for special occasions but comforting enough to make you close your eyes with each delicious forkful.
Quick Yet Impressive Results
Despite its fancy reputation, Shrimp Newburg comes together in about 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it my go-to when I need something impressive but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The sauce thickens beautifully as it simmers, transforming before your eyes into that signature velvety consistency. I still remember the first time I served this to guests – they couldn’t believe I’d whipped it up so quickly! The combination of minimal prep work and maximum flavor impact makes this recipe a true kitchen hero when you want to impress without stress. Your dinner guests will think you spent hours crafting this luxurious dish.
Essential Tips & Tricks
Selecting and Preparing the Shrimp
The foundation of an exceptional Shrimp Newburg starts with high-quality shrimp. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp (16-20 count per pound) for the best texture and presentation. Fresh is wonderful if you have access, but don’t hesitate to use frozen shrimp that’s been properly thawed. The key is ensuring they’re deveined and peeled, leaving just the tails on for a prettier presentation if desired. When cooking the shrimp, remember that they’ll continue cooking in the sauce, so it’s better to slightly undercook them in the initial sauté. Pink with just a hint of translucence is perfect – they should have just curled into a loose C-shape.
Creating the Perfect Sauce Consistency
The signature velvety texture of Shrimp Newburg sauce requires a bit of attention but is simple to master. Start with a proper roux by cooking the flour and butter until it smells slightly nutty but hasn’t browned. When adding your liquid ingredients, pour slowly while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. If your sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of cream or stock at a time until you reach the desired consistency. For a silkier finish, temper your egg yolks by adding a small amount of the hot sauce to them before incorporating them back into the pan. This prevents curdling and creates that luxurious mouthfeel that makes Shrimp Newburg so special.
Serving Ideas & Creative Variations
Classic and Modern Serving Suggestions
Traditionally, Shrimp Newburg is served over buttery toast points or puff pastry shells for an elegant presentation. For a more substantial meal, spoon it over perfectly cooked rice or angel hair pasta that will catch all that luscious sauce. One of my favorite ways to serve it is nestled in a bed of creamy mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh chives – the contrast between the silky sauce and fluffy potatoes is divine! For a low-carb option, consider serving over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted asparagus. Whatever base you choose, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes the perfect accompaniment to balance the richness of this spectacular dish.
Exciting Flavor Twists and Additions
While the classic recipe is perfection, I love experimenting with flavor variations that put a personal spin on this timeless dish. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper brings a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully. For a Mediterranean twist, stir in some sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of baby spinach just before serving. Seafood lovers might appreciate a mixed version with lobster or scallops alongside the shrimp – I tried this for a holiday dinner and it was a showstopper! You can also incorporate crispy bacon bits for a smoky contrast or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy dimension that pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce.
Storage & Troubleshooting Guide
Proper Storage and Reheating Methods
Shrimp Newburg is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking and the shrimp from becoming tough. I recommend adding a splash of cream or milk when reheating to revitalize the sauce’s silky texture. For the best results, warm the sauce separately until it’s just heated through, then add the shrimp for the final minute to avoid overcooking. Unfortunately, Shrimp Newburg doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon thawing, and the texture of the shrimp may become compromised.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Even experienced cooks occasionally encounter challenges with Shrimp Newburg. If your sauce breaks or curdles, don’t panic! Try removing it from heat and whisking in a tablespoon of cold cream or a small pat of softened butter. For a sauce that’s too thin, create a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch and cold water, then whisk it in while the sauce simmers. Conversely, if your sauce is too thick, gradually add warm stock or cream until you reach the desired consistency. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery – if this happens, consider chopping them and incorporating them into a creamy pasta dish where the sauce will help mask the texture.
Remember that patience is key – gentle heat and constant attention yield the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Shrimp Newburg?
Shrimp Newburg is a rich American seafood dish consisting of shrimp in a creamy sauce made with butter, egg yolks, cream, and sherry or cognac. It originated in the late 1800s and is traditionally served over toast points, puff pastry, or rice.
Can I make Shrimp Newburg ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours ahead, but I recommend cooking the shrimp just before serving. Reheat the sauce gently, then add freshly cooked shrimp to maintain their tender texture and prevent overcooking.
What can I substitute for the alcohol in Shrimp Newburg recipe?
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the sherry or cognac with seafood stock mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. This maintains the depth of flavor without using alcohol.
How can I tell when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Perfectly cooked shrimp turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose C-shape. If they curl into a tight O-shape, they’re overcooked. They should feel firm but still have a slight bounce when pressed.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Light, fresh sides balance Shrimp Newburg’s richness best. Consider steamed asparagus, a simple green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or garlic green beans. For starches, rice, crusty bread, or pasta work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Newburg recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special – a dish that feels like celebration on a plate. I hope you’ll embrace both the classic preparation and the creative variations to make this recipe your own. There’s something deeply satisfying about mastering a timeless dish like this, watching as humble shrimp transform into an elegant meal worthy of your most cherished gatherings. Whether for a romantic dinner, holiday feast, or simply because you deserve something extraordinary, Shrimp Newburg delivers comfort and luxury in equal measure. Find more seafood inspirations on our Pinterest board and keep creating beautiful meals!