The vibrant colors and tangy aromas wafting from my kitchen instantly take me back to sun-soaked summer afternoons on the Gulf Coast. There’s something undeniably special about Southern Louisiana Pickled Shrimp in a Jar—this dish is more than just an appetizer; it’s a celebration of flavors ready to impress at any gathering. Picture this: succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty lemon brine, infused with a medley of Creole spices, all lovingly packed into jars. The best part? You can make this delicious treat ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify! Whether you’re hosting a tailgate, a casual cookout, or simply craving something fresh to snack on, these pickled shrimp will steal the show. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that’s sure to become your new favorite!

Why is Pickled Shrimp In a Jar a Must-Try?

Unique Flavors: The delightful mix of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and spicy Creole seasoning makes these shrimp an unforgettable treat.

Effortless Preparation: This easy recipe requires minimal fuss—simply layer the ingredients in jars and let the marinade do the work overnight.

Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for parties or casual cookouts, impress your guests with this vibrant appetizer that looks as good as it tastes.

Marinade Magic: The flavors deepen and develop as they chill, making for a refreshing bite every time you indulge.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve with toasted baguette slices, or get creative with personal servings in small jars—either way, everyone will enjoy!

Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Check out more delicious ideas in our Southern Cooking section for inspiration!

Pickled Shrimp In a Jar Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Plump, peeled, and deveined shrimp are essential for this dish; large Gulf or Carolina shrimp yield the best flavor.

For the Marinade
• Lemon – Brightens the flavor; use one for zest and juice, and thinly slice another for layering.
• Olive Oil – The base of the marinade, adding richness; feel free to substitute with a neutral oil if desired.
• White Wine Vinegar – Provides the necessary acidity to balance the flavors; essential for pickled shrimp in a jar.
• Creole Seasoning – This classic southern spice adds depth; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors in the marinade; make sure to measure accurately for balance.
• Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; fresh minced garlic is preferred for best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon for a well-rounded taste.
• Mustard Seeds – Introduce subtle crunch and rich flavor to your marinade.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick; adjust the amount based on personal spice level preference.
• Dried Parsley – For a hint of fresh herbiness; can substitute with fresh herbs if you prefer.
• Bay Leaves – Imparts an aromatic infusion while the shrimp marinate.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a layer of umami flavor to the marinade, completing the profile.

For the Garnish
• Sweet Onion – Adds sweetness and crunch; a small Vidalia onion works wonderfully for this recipe.

Without further ado, let’s gather these ingredients and create a stunning Southern dish that will elevate your next gathering!

How to Make Pickled Shrimp In a Jar

Prepare the shrimp: Begin by ensuring your shrimp are fully cooked, peeled, and deveined. This step is crucial for a delightful texture in your pickled shrimp.
Slice the ingredients: Thinly slice one lemon and the sweet onion. Zest and juice a second lemon for the marinade, bringing a burst of freshness to the mix.
Whisk the marinade: In a large measuring cup, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, lemon zest, Creole seasoning, salt, minced garlic, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, dried parsley, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until blended.
Layer the jars: In two wide-mouth canning jars, start layering by placing onion slices, lemon slices, shrimp, and bay leaves. Once layered, evenly distribute the marinade between the jars, ensuring every morsel of shrimp is covered.
Seal the jars: Secure the lids on your jars, then gently invert them several times to distribute the marinade (avoid shaking to keep ingredients intact).
Chill overnight: Refrigerate the jars for at least 12 hours, flipping them 2-3 times to ensure the shrimp are evenly marinated. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: Serve with fresh baguette slices for a delightful pairing.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Pickled Shrimp in a Jar

Fridge: Store the pickled shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure the jars are sealed tightly to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for pickled shrimp, as it may alter the texture and flavor of the dish. Enjoy them freshly made!
Serving Suggestions: If you want to enjoy them during a gathering, serve chilled directly from the fridge or place jars in a bowl of ice for an elegant display.
Make-Ahead: These shrimp are perfect for making ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight for a more robust taste when served.

Make Ahead Options

These Pickled Shrimp in a Jar are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a zesty appetizer with minimal fuss! You can easily prepare the shrimp and marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to layer the shrimp, lemon, onion, and marinade in jars, then seal and refrigerate. For best flavor, make sure to turn the jars 2-3 times before serving, allowing the marinade to thoroughly coat the shrimp. If you’re planning a gathering, this method will save you valuable time, ensuring that your dish is just as delicious and flavorful when it’s time to enjoy.

Pickled Shrimp In a Jar Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to match your taste buds!

Cilantro Twist: Substitute dried parsley with fresh cilantro for a fresh, zesty flavor that adds a Tex-Mex flair.
Jalapeño Heat: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile. Perfect for those who like a little heat!
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh dill or thyme in place of parsley for a unique herby twist. Each herb brings its own delightful nuance to the marinade.
Sweet & Spicy: Include a tablespoon of honey along with the sugar for a sweet contrast, balancing the tangy flavors beautifully.
Zingy Mustard: Use Dijon mustard instead of the mustard seeds to introduce a tangy, creamy texture in the marinade. It gives a delightful depth to the flavor!
Citrus Blast: Add the zest of an orange along with the lemon for a sweet, citrusy complexity that brightens every bite.
Smoky Addition: Incorporate smoked paprika to lend a subtle smokiness that beautifully complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some sliced bell peppers for added crunch and color, making your pickled shrimp even more inviting.

What to Serve with Pickled Shrimp in a Jar?

Picture the vibrant colors and zesty flavors of your pickled shrimp paired with delightful sides that complement their freshness!

Crunchy Baguette Slices: These toasted slices are perfect for scooping up the shrimp and absorbing the tangy marinade, creating a satisfying bite with every taste.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw balances the spicy pickled shrimp beautifully, making for a refreshing side that adds color and crunch.
Savory Deviled Eggs: Their creamy filling paired with a sprinkle of paprika echoes the flavors of your shrimp, offering a familiar bite that elevates your appetizer spread.
Spicy Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn combined with a hint of heat provides a vibrant contrast to the tanginess of the shrimp, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Light Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of citrus fruits and greens enhances the briny shrimp while adding a burst of juiciness and color to your table.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp’s zesty flavors, making each sip a delightful pairing.

Dive into these suggestions and elevate your gathering with an array of flavors that celebrate the essence of Southern cuisine!

Expert Tips for Pickled Shrimp In a Jar

Quality Matters: Always choose high-quality shrimp; fresh Gulf shrimp is best, but frozen can work in a pinch if properly thawed.
Marination Time: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 12 hours, and 24 hours for even deeper flavor infusion.
Layer Carefully: When layering the jars, ensure shrimp are fully submerged in the marinade to avoid any dry spots.
Temperature Control: Keep your pickled shrimp in the fridge until serving; serve on ice if it’s a warm day to maintain freshness.
Mind Your Seasoning: Taste the marinade before pouring over the shrimp; adjust the salt and spices according to your palate for the perfect kick.

Pickled Shrimp In a Jar Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for pickled shrimp?
I recommend using large Gulf or Carolina shrimp for the best flavor. Look for plump, peeled, and deveined shrimp in your local grocery store. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp are a great substitute—just make sure to thaw them properly before use!

How long can I store pickled shrimp in the refrigerator?
You can happily store your pickled shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to seal the jars tightly to keep them fresh and flavorful. If you’re planning a gathering, prepare them in advance so they have time to marinate and develop their delightful zest!

Can I freeze pickled shrimp for later use?
Freezing pickled shrimp isn’t recommended, as it can negatively affect the texture and flavor. The shrimp may become mushy once thawed, taking away from the delightful crunch that makes this dish special. Instead, enjoy them freshly made to fully experience the perfect blend of flavors!

What should I do if my marinade separates after making it?
If your marinade separates, don’t worry! Simply invert the jars gently a few times to remix the ingredients. Remember, shaking them can cause the shrimp to break apart, so a soft inversion is best. If you find the flavors aren’t blending well, give your marinade another quick whisk before pouring it over the shrimp.

Can I adjust the spice level in the recipe?
Absolutely! Adjusting the spice level is easy. You can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes for a milder taste or add more if you love that spicy kick. Additionally, feel free to include jalapeño slices for extra heat—the more, the merrier!

Is this recipe safe for my pets?
While these pickled shrimp are delicious for us, it’s best to keep human food away from our furry friends. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to pets. Always stick to pet-safe treats to keep them happy and healthy!

Pickled Shrimp In a Jar Recipe FAQs