Discover the secrets to the perfect BBQ shrimp recipe, bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare.
Barbecuing shrimp is an incredibly delicious way to prepare this versatile seafood, giving it a smoky, grilled taste that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just craving a quick, tasty meal, this BBQ shrimp recipe is sure to impress. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make tender, juicy shrimp that’s full of flavor. We’ll also explore different tips and techniques for barbecuing shrimp and keeping them perfectly tender every time.
Why This BBQ Shrimp Recipe Is a Must-Try
If you’re a fan of seafood and the smoky flavor of barbecue, then this BBQ shrimp recipe is for you. Additionally, shrimp cooks quickly, making it an ideal choice for those who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Moreover, it’s not just about speed; shrimp has a wonderful ability to absorb flavors, making it perfect for marinating and grilling. Furthermore, it’s packed with protein and low in calories, therefore making it a healthy option for any diet. In conclusion, this recipe brings together convenience, flavor, and nutrition, so it’s a must-try for any barbecue enthusiast. However, it is important to avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness and flavor. Ultimately, this BBQ shrimp recipe will become a favorite in your household.
Whether you prefer to grill your shrimp with the shell on or off, our recipe offers easy-to-follow methods for both. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp, deveined (shell on or off) | 1.5 pounds |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step BBQ Shrimp Recipe
1. Prepare the Marinade
The marinade is the key to making the best BBQ shrimp recipe. Start by whisking together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. The combination of sweet honey and tangy lemon juice creates a perfect balance of flavors, while soy sauce adds umami depth.
2. Marinate the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring each one is well-coated. Let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes, but not longer than an hour. The marinade will infuse the shrimp with rich flavors, making each bite an explosion of taste.
Pro tip: Avoid marinating shrimp for too long as the acidic lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp, so resulting in a less desirable texture.
3. Preheat the Grill
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed. For a gas grill, set it to about 400°F. Clean the grill grates well and brush with a bit of oil to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
4. Grill the Shrimp
Once your grill is hot, place the shrimp directly on the grill grates. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. The shrimp should turn a lovely pink color, with opaque flesh and slight grill marks.
Tip: It’s best to barbecue shrimp with the shell on for a juicier result, but it’s entirely up to your preference. Leaving the shell on helps lock in the moisture, making the shrimp less likely to dry out during grilling.
5. Garnish and Serve
After grilling the shrimp, transfer them to a serving platter, and then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Additionally, serve immediately with a lemon wedge on the side for a burst of freshness. Moreover, this BBQ shrimp recipe pairs beautifully with a light salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of steamed rice. Furthermore, you can also consider serving it with a refreshing citrus mocktail to enhance the overall experience. Therefore, these accompaniments will balance the smoky and savory flavors of the shrimp. So ultimately, enjoy this dish with friends and family for the best experience.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Shrimp Every Time
Should You Grill Shrimp with the Shell On or Off?
One common question people have is whether it’s better to barbecue shrimp with the shell on or off. The answer depends on what you’re looking for. Grilling shrimp with the shell on helps protect the delicate meat from the intense heat, preventing it from overcooking and drying out. However, grilling shrimp without the shell makes it easier for the marinade to penetrate and delivers a stronger flavor.
For a compromise, consider removing the shell but keeping the tail on. This makes it easier to handle while still protecting the shrimp from excessive heat.
How to Keep Shrimp Tender on the Grill
How do you cook shrimp and keep them tender? The secret is to avoid overcooking. Shrimp cook extremely quickly, usually in 4-6 minutes total. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and form a gentle “C” shape. If they’re coiled too tightly, they’ve likely been overcooked.
Also, grilling over medium-high heat allows the shrimp to cook evenly without drying out. Brushing them lightly with olive oil or butter before grilling can also help keep them tender.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
When making this BBQ shrimp recipe, it’s essential to choose the right shrimp. Larger shrimp work best for grilling because they’re easier to handle and less likely to overcook. Look for shrimp labeled as “jumbo” or “large,” typically ranging between 16-20 shrimp per pound. Fresh shrimp is always preferable, but frozen shrimp can also work well—just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.
It’s also crucial to choose shrimp that have been deveined. This not only makes the shrimp more visually appealing but also ensures better flavor and texture. When grilling shrimp with the shell on, make sure the back is slit, and the vein is removed to allow for even cooking.
BBQ Shrimp Recipe Variations
Spicy BBQ Shrimp
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, then add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade. The combination of spicy and smoky flavors will therefore elevate your BBQ shrimp recipe to the next level. Moreover, spicy shrimp pairs perfectly with a cooling side dish, such as cucumber salad or a yogurt-based dipping sauce, to balance out the heat. Furthermore, you could add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an additional layer of brightness. Ultimately, this variation will create a dish that is both exciting and balanced in flavor.
Garlic Butter BBQ Shrimp
Another delicious variation involves using garlic butter. So replace the olive oil with melted butter, and increase the amount of garlic to enhance the flavor. The butter adds a richness that pairs wonderfully with the charred, smoky flavor from the grill. Serve garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce—it’s an easy way to make the meal even more indulgent.
Citrus Herb BBQ Shrimp
For a fresh and zesty twist, add more herbs like rosemary and thyme to the marinade. Including orange or lime juice alongside the lemon creates a more complex citrus profile that’s both refreshing and flavorful. This variation is perfect for summer gatherings and adds an elegant touch to your barbecue spread. Garnish with extra citrus slices to enhance the presentation.
BBQ Shrimp Skewers
To make your BBQ shrimp recipe even more fun to eat, consider threading the shrimp onto skewers. This helps keep the shrimp from falling through the grill grates and makes flipping them much easier. Alternate shrimp with vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onion slices for a colorful presentation. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
What to Serve with BBQ Shrimp
What do you eat with barbecue shrimp? BBQ shrimp is versatile and pairs well with many different sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and corn on the cob are excellent options that complement the smokiness of the shrimp. The slight sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the shrimp.
- Rice or Quinoa: Steamed rice or quinoa provides a hearty base that absorbs the marinade and grilled flavors perfectly. You can even mix some finely chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon into the rice to give it extra freshness.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the smoky shrimp. Consider using mixed greens, sliced cucumber, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette to keep things light and refreshing.
- Garlic Bread: Mop up the extra marinade with slices of warm, buttery garlic bread. The rich, garlicky flavor complements the smoky shrimp, making it an ideal pairing.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with a light dressing works wonderfully as a side for BBQ shrimp. Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds texture and a refreshing balance to the smoky shrimp. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables and a bit of acidity to the meal.
Perfect Pairings for BBQ Shrimp
Pairing your BBQ shrimp recipe with the right beverages can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are a few suggestions to consider:
- White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs excellently with BBQ shrimp. The light acidity helps cut through the richness of the shrimp and complements the citrus notes in the marinade.
- Beer: For a more casual approach, a light lager or wheat beer works wonderfully with grilled shrimp. The lightness of the beer won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the shrimp.
- Lemonade or Citrus Mocktail: For a non-alcoholic option, serve your BBQ shrimp with freshly made lemonade or a citrus mocktail. The zesty citrus notes enhance the flavor of the shrimp, creating a refreshing combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Way to Barbecue Shrimp?
The best way to barbecue shrimp is to marinate them first, grill over medium-high heat, and cook them quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side. Using skewers can make flipping easier, and keeping the shells on helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Ensure the grill is properly preheated before adding the shrimp. A hot grill will sear the shrimp quickly, locking in the juices and creating a slightly charred, smoky exterior. Make sure to use direct heat rather than indirect heat to achieve the best results.
Is It Better to Barbecue Shrimp with the Shell On or Off?
Grilling with the shell on helps prevent the shrimp from drying out, but shell-off shrimp absorb more flavor from the marinade. It ultimately depends on your preference. If you want the best of both worlds, try removing the shell but keeping the tail intact.
For shell-on shrimp, consider making a shallow cut along the back of the shell to help the marinade penetrate the meat. This small step can make a big difference in flavor.
What Do You Eat with Barbecue Shrimp?
BBQ shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, including grilled vegetables, steamed rice, green salads, or garlic bread. You can also serve them as part of a seafood platter with other grilled favorites, such as scallops or fish fillets. Adding a dipping sauce, like garlic aioli or lemon butter, can also elevate the meal.
How Do You Cook Shrimp and Keep Them Tender?
To keep shrimp tender, cook them quickly over medium-high heat, usually no more than 4-6 minutes. Make sure they turn pink and form a gentle “C” shape, which indicates they’re perfectly cooked. Overcooked shrimp will form a tighter curl and become rubbery.
Another tip is to ensure that the grill is well-oiled. This prevents the shrimp from sticking and tearing, which can lead to a tougher texture. If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water beforehand helps prevent burning and keeps the shrimp from drying out.
Additional Tips for BBQ Shrimp Success
Using Skewers for BBQ Shrimp
Using skewers is an excellent way to make grilling shrimp easier and more efficient. Not only do skewers prevent shrimp from falling through the grill grates, but they also make flipping multiple shrimp at once a breeze. You can use either metal or wooden skewers, but if you’re opting for wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
When threading the shrimp, leave a small amount of space between each one. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring each shrimp cooks perfectly. You can also alternate shrimp with pieces of vegetables or even fruit, such as pineapple, for added flavor.
Choosing the Right Grill
The type of grill you use can impact the flavor and texture of your BBQ shrimp recipe. Charcoal grills provide a smoky flavor that is hard to replicate, adding depth to the shrimp’s taste. If you’re using a charcoal grill, try adding a handful of soaked wood chips to the coals for extra smokiness.
Gas grills, on the other hand, offer convenience and precise temperature control. If you’re using a gas grill, make sure to preheat it properly and keep an eye on the temperature to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Whichever type of grill you use, keeping the grates clean and oiled is key to preventing the shrimp from sticking.
Flavor Boosters for BBQ Shrimp
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your shrimp, consider basting them with a little reserved marinade during grilling. Make sure to set aside some marinade before adding the raw shrimp, to avoid cross-contamination. Basting adds moisture and enhances the overall taste.
You can also sprinkle a finishing seasoning, like smoked paprika or a squeeze of fresh lime juice, just before serving. This final touch can add complexity and elevate the dish to new heights.
Final Thoughts on BBQ Shrimp Recipe
This BBQ shrimp recipe is a fantastic addition to any summer gathering or a quick weeknight meal. With just a few simple ingredients and some handy tips, you can make juicy, flavorful shrimp that will impress everyone at the table. Whether you prefer a classic BBQ flavor, something with a spicy kick, or a rich garlic butter taste, this recipe is highly versatile and easy to customize.
Fire up your grill, and enjoy the perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors that make this BBQ shrimp recipe unforgettable. With the tips and variations provided in this guide, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s suited to any occasion, from casual backyard cookouts to elegant dinners.
Grilling shrimp is all about finding the perfect balance of flavor, heat, and timing. The more you practice, the more you’ll discover your preferred techniques and flavor combinations. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades—shrimp is a wonderfully adaptable ingredient that rewards creativity.
So, grab your ingredients, heat up the grill, and get ready to enjoy the best BBQ shrimp recipe you’ve ever tasted!