I was planning a party and wanted something easy yet special. That’s when I found Shrimp Cocktail Cups. They looked amazing, with baby shrimp, crisp lettuce, and tangy sauce in each cup.

They’re perfect for parties and easy to make ahead. This lets me enjoy my guests more. If you want to wow your guests with seafood, try these Shrimp Cocktail Cups!

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Cocktail Cups

I love Shrimp Cocktail Cups for many reasons. They are light and satisfying. They make any event feel fancy yet easy to enjoy.

Making these snacks is quick and easy. I can prepare them before the party starts. This lets me spend time with my guests.

The shrimp, lettuce, and cocktail sauce are a perfect mix. They taste great and are not too heavy. This makes them perfect for any party.

These snacks are also easy to eat. They are small and simple to serve. This makes hosting a party fun and stress-free.

Ingredients for Perfect Shrimp Cocktail Cups

To make my shrimp cocktail, I start with 1 pound of cooked baby shrimp. Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen works too if thawed right. The base is 1 ½ cups of shredded iceberg lettuce for a crunchy bite.

I add 1 cup of finely diced celery for extra freshness. The sauce is key, so I use ½ cup of cocktail sauce and 1 tablespoon of horseradish. This gives it a nice kick. I top it off with lemon wedges and sometimes fresh dill or diced avocado for color and taste.

How to Make Shrimp Cocktail Cups: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making shrimp cocktail cups is easy and fun. I start by picking four small cups or bowls. They should hold about 6 to 8 ounces. This gives enough room for all the tasty ingredients.

First, I chop fresh lettuce and celery finely. I put 2-3 tablespoons of lettuce and a tablespoon of celery in each cup. This makes the base crunchy and fresh.

Then, I fill each cup with about ½ cup of cooked baby shrimp. I arrange them nicely for looks. Next, I add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cocktail sauce. This adds a tangy taste that goes well with the shrimp.

If you like a bit of spice, add up to 1 teaspoon of horseradish sauce. Swirling the sauces with the shrimp makes every bite full of flavor.

To finish, I add a lemon wedge, some avocado chunks, and a sprig of fresh dill if I have it. After that, I cover the cups and chill them in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well before serving.

Serving Tips for Shrimp Cocktail Cups

I like to serve my Shrimp Cocktail Cups on a pretty platter. It looks great and makes guests happy. They can grab what they want, which helps everyone chat more.

Using clear cups is a smart move. It lets everyone see the shrimp, sauce, and garnishes. It’s like a little show for your eyes.

It’s good to ask guests if they like cocktail sauce or horseradish. Making it personal makes the dish better. Serving them with snacks like Corn Dog Nuggets or Pickle de Gallo adds fun. Decorative garnishes like lemon twists or flowers make it even more special.

I always check on the cups to keep them fresh and nice. This makes the party look better and creates special memories.

Storage Tips for Leftover Shrimp Cocktail Cups

When storing leftover shrimp cocktail cups, I cover them with wax paper or plastic wrap. Keeping them in the fridge at the right temperature is key. I try to eat them within a day for the best taste and texture.

Keeping veggies crisp and presentation sharp is important. I add avocado just before serving. This keeps everything fresh.

If I have more leftovers than I need, I separate the shrimp, sauce, and veggies. This way, I can enjoy my shrimp over several days. It’s one of my favorite ways to store leftovers.

Storing leftovers properly makes a big difference. It keeps your shrimp appetizers fresh and tasty. Enjoy your snacks!