Grilled shrimp recipes are perfect when you need something quick, fresh, and flavorful. With the right timing and a few simple tips, you'll get juicy, tender shrimp every time. It's easy to overcook shrimp on the grill, but I'll show you how to get it right. Whether you're in a rush or just want something new, these recipes have you covered.
Shrimp cook fast, so keep a close eye on them. Larger shrimp may need an extra minute, but once they turn pink and firm, they're ready. Don't overcook.
According to the FDA, shrimp is cooked through when the flesh becomes firm, pearly, and opaque. Raw shrimp is sown here. As they cook, you will see the flesh turn white.
Jump to:
- Why Use Skewers?
- Grilling Times
- Defrosting Frozen Shrimp
- Top Tips For Perfect BBQ Shrimp
- Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Garlic Butter
- Garlic Shrimp Skewers
- Smoked Shrimp Skewers
- Grilled Peel 'n Eat Shrimp
- Grilled Shrimp Bowl
- Shrimp Skewers with Vegetables
- Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp
- Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
- Thai Shrimp with Coconut Milk and Lime
- Grilled Curry Shrimp
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Texas Roadhouse Shrimp
- Jalapeño Tequila Shrimp
- Honey Lime Shrimp
- Shrimp and Veggie Kabobs
- More Shrimp Recipes
- FAQ
Why Use Skewers?
Shrimp can fall through the grill grates if you place them directly on the grill. Using skewers keeps them secure and easier to turn. Metal skewers work great, but wooden ones are fine too. Just soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to keep them from burning.
Grilling Times
Shrimp cooks fast, so keep a close eye on it while grilling.
- Jumbo shrimp: 3 to 4 minutes per side
- Large shrimp: 2 to 3 minutes per side
- Medium shrimp: about 2 minutes per side
Defrosting Frozen Shrimp
To defrost shrimp, place them in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 10 minutes. They'll be ready to grill in about 20 minutes.
Top Tips For Perfect BBQ Shrimp
- Shrimp absorb marinades fast. A quick 15 to 30 minute soak in garlic, lemon, olive oil, soy sauce, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds great flavor.
- Leave space between each shrimp on the skewer or grill so they cook evenly.
- Grill over direct heat-medium-high on a gas grill or right over the coals on a charcoal grill.
- Serve shrimp hot off the grill for the best texture. If you're making a large batch, keep them warm in foil until ready to eat.
- Shrimp cook in just a few minutes. With a hot grill and simple seasoning, you'll get great results. Just be sure to watch closely and don't overcook.
Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Garlic Butter
A simple garlic butter sauce takes these grilled shrimp to the next level. The shrimp are quick to cook and full of flavor, making this an easy recipe that's always a hit!
Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp kebabs are marinated in olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white wine for extra flavor. Skewered with tomatoes, onions, and summer squash, they're simple, fresh, and delicious.
Smoked Shrimp Skewers
Smoked shrimp skewers are soaked in a tangy Whole30 marinade, then smoked and finished on the grill. They're great for a Traeger and work well as an appetizer or a light, healthy main dish.
Grilled Peel 'n Eat Shrimp
This grilled shrimp recipe keeps the shells on for extra flavor. The shrimp are tossed with Old Bay and melted butter, then grilled until tender. They're messy, saucy, and totally worth it!
Grilled Shrimp Bowl
Try this shrimp bowl loaded with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, corn, avocado, and spicy garlic shrimp. It's easy to make and perfect for a healthy, flavorful lunch or dinner.
Shrimp Skewers with Vegetables
Grilled shrimp kabobs with vegetables are quick, colorful, and perfect for summer. A simple trick ensures even cooking, and the zesty marinade adds bold flavor. Great for low-carb meals or backyard get-togethers.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp
These grilled cilantro lime shrimp skewers make a fast and delicious dinner or appetizer. The shrimp are marinated in lime juice, cilantro, honey, and spices, then grilled.
Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
This easy summer meal comes together fast. The sweet pineapple pairs perfectly with grilled shrimp, and you can add extra veggies to the grill for a colorful, balanced plate.
Thai Shrimp with Coconut Milk and Lime
These Thai Grilled Shrimp are marinated in coconut milk, lime juice, Thai seasoning, and cilantro, then grilled until tender and full of flavor. It's a simple, fresh dinner that comes together fast and works great on skewers.
Grilled Curry Shrimp
Wild shrimp are tossed in a dry rub of curry powder, turmeric, cayenne, ginger, and a touch of sugar, then skewered and grilled until smoky. It's fast, bold, and perfect for summer entertaining.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
The smoky taste of the shrimp goes well with the tangy chili marinade, making a easy dish for weeknight meals!
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a savory bite of crispy bacon and tender, juicy shrimp that's perfect for any appetizer spread!
Texas Roadhouse Shrimp
Texas Roadhouse Shrimp make the perfect main dish, surf 'n turf addition, or appetizer, with a flavor that's just like the irresistible shrimp served at the famous restaurant!
Jalapeño Tequila Shrimp
For an easy appetizer packed with flavor, try Grilled Jalapeño Tequila Shrimp!
Honey Lime Shrimp
Easy to make quick honey lime shrimp is grilled and ready to eat in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight meals or casual dinners.
Shrimp and Veggie Kabobs
These shrimp and veggie kabobs with Wild Blueberry Barbecue Sauce are sure to be a hit at your last summer hoorah!
More Shrimp Recipes
Grilled shrimp pairs well with light, fresh sides like a salad, steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a coleslaw. Here are some more shrimp recipes:
- Peel and Eat Shrimp Recipe
- Boiled Shrimp With Old Bay
- Coconut Oil Shrimp
- Cajun Blackened Shrimp
- How To Steam Shrimp
- Sautéed Shrimp with Coconut Aminos
- Keto Shrimp Dinner Recipes
- Key West Shrimp Tacos
Grilled shrimp can be garnished with herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil, a squeeze of lemon or lime juice, and chopped green onions. You can also add a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of color and heat.
And don't forget a fresh authentic Key West Key Lime Pie for dessert!
FAQ
Yes, you can use a Lodge cast-iron grill pan. You'll have to work in batches because the surface is only 10 inches across, but it is manageable. Try this recipe for sautéed shrimp for indoor cooking.
BBQ shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with bright red tails. You can use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the small pieces has reached 120 °F (49 °C).
If you are serving grilled shrimp with lots of other sides and seafood, you could probably do a quarter pound per person. To be safe, I would cook one-third pound per person for kabobs or grilled shrimp main course.
