If there’s one thing I learned during a weekend trip to Las Vegas — other than not to play slots after midnight — it’s that shrimp cocktail there is a big deal. Walk into any old-school casino lounge and you’ll find it on the menu: icy-cold shrimp, a bold, horseradish-kissed cocktail sauce, and maybe a lemon wedge on the side. It’s simple, bracing, and oddly perfect for the desert heat.

This Nevada-style shrimp cocktail is inspired by that vintage Vegas vibe — chilled and refreshing, with a punchy homemade sauce that’ll wake up your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that feels retro and classy, but takes just minutes to throw together.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard get-together or looking for a light starter with serious flavor, this shrimp cocktail brings a little sparkle to the table.

Ingredients for Nevada Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

• 1 lemon, halved

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 bay leaf

• Ice water, for chilling

For the cocktail sauce:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (or more to taste)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• A few dashes of hot sauce (like Tabasco)

• Pinch of salt

To serve:

• Lemon wedges

• Fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Nevada Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

1. Cook the shrimp. Bring a pot of water to a boil with salt, lemon halves, and bay leaf. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until pink and firm. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Chill until ready to serve.

2. Make the cocktail sauce. In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust for spice.

3. Serve. Arrange cold shrimp in cocktail glasses or a serving platter with lemon wedges and a bowl of sauce on the side. Garnish with parsley if you like.

Sarah’s Simple Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp. Pull them as soon as they turn pink — they’ll keep cooking a little in the water.

• Use fresh horseradish if you want a stronger, nose-tingling kick.

• Chill everything. This dish is all about that crisp, cold bite with bold flavor.

Flavorful Conclusion

Nevada shrimp cocktail is the perfect mix of classic and refreshing — simple, elegant, and just the right amount of spicy. Whether you're channeling old Vegas or just want something light and bold, this retro appetizer always makes a splash.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings):
Calories: 160
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 850mg