BBQ Shrimp Recipe: Easy Grilled Seafood at Home

As the warm summer breeze touches your skin, the smell of charcoal and sizzling shrimp fills the air. You can’t help but feel excited. Grilling season is here, and a delicious BBQ shrimp recipe is perfect for your backyard.

This recipe brings the flavors of New Orleans to your home. It’s a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to make. It will take your taste buds on a journey to the vibrant streets of the Big Easy.

This BBQ shrimp recipe is a hit with everyone. It has the right mix of spices, tender shrimp, and a tasty barbecue sauce. Your guests will want more.

It’s great for any occasion: a backyard party, a family dinner, or a romantic evening. This dish will impress and make everyone happy. Get ready to enjoy the flavors of the South and make memories that will last.

Understanding BBQ Shrimp: New Orleans Style vs Grilled

BBQ shrimp comes in two main styles: the classic New Orleans way and the grilled version. The New Orleans BBQ shrimp is not grilled but sautéed. It’s cooked in a lot of butter with Worcestershire sauce, lemon, and Creole seasonings. This makes it very rich and flavorful.

The grilled shrimp variations are a healthier choice. They use peeled shrimp and less butter. Instead, they add chili, garlic, or Cajun spices. This gives them a wide range of tastes.

Traditional New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

The New Orleans BBQ shrimp is a famous dish. It’s made with shell-on shrimp cooked in a buttery sauce. The sauce has Worcestershire, lemon, and Creole seasoning. This lets the flavors soak into the shrimp.

Modern Grilling Adaptations

Modern chefs have made grilled shrimp variations that are healthier. They use peeled shrimp and less butter. They also add different flavors like Cajun, garlic, or chili.

Regional Flavor Variations

There are many regional shrimp recipes too. From Louisiana’s Cajun dishes to the Pacific Northwest’s garlic ones, shrimp can be made in many ways. This shows how versatile shrimp is in American cooking.

“The key to great BBQ shrimp, whether New Orleans-style or grilled, is the balance of flavors and the quality of the shrimp itself.”

Essential Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Shrimp Recipe

To make the best BBQ shrimp, start with the right ingredients. You’ll need large or jumbo shrimp for a juicy texture. Coat them in olive oil or melted butter mixed with spices to bring out their sweetness.

The secret to great BBQ shrimp is in the seasoning. Use paprika, ancho chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and a bit of cayenne pepper. Adding Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the flavor.

Choosing the right oil or butter and spice mix is key. Try different combinations to find the perfect taste for you.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious BBQ shrimp dish. It’s sure to wow your family and friends.

Selecting and Preparing Your Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is key to a great BBQ shrimp dish. Whether you pick fresh or frozen, large or jumbo, it’s all about quality and care.

Fresh vs Frozen Shrimp

Frozen shrimp are often better than “fresh” ones from the supermarket. They’re flash-frozen at their peak, keeping flavor and texture intact. Opt for large, extra-large, or jumbo shrimp to avoid drying out during grilling.

Proper Thawing Methods

Thaw frozen shrimp carefully before cooking. The best way is to thaw them in cool water, changing it a few times until thawed. Don’t use warm or hot water, as it can cook the shrimp and change their texture.

Cleaning and Deveining Tips

Look for shrimp that are already “shell split and deveined” for convenience. If not, use a sharp knife to devein them gently. Be careful not to overcrowd your work surface.

By following these tips, you’ll prepare your shrimp perfectly for BBQ. With the right shrimp, you’re ready to grill a seafood masterpiece.

Ultimate Shrimp Marinade and Seasonings

Make your grilled shrimp taste amazing with a tasty marinade or seasoning. Choose from a New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp flavor or a zesty citrus marinade. The right mix of ingredients can turn your shrimp into a dish to remember.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Creating a delicious shrimp marinade is all about finding the right mix. Start with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Add tomato paste for depth and lemon juice or vinegar for a bright note.

Season it with spices like paprika, cumin, and a bit of cayenne pepper. This will give your shrimp that special bbq shrimp seasoning taste.

Marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes to 1 hour. But don’t marinate for more than an hour. This lets the flavors soak in without making the shrimp mushy.

Dry Rubs and Spice Blends

For a bold grilled shrimp flavors, try a dry rub instead of marinade. Mix paprika, ancho chili powder, cumin, salt, and a bit of sugar. Coat the shrimp well and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before grilling.

Play with different spice mixes, like onion powder, chili powder, or Parmesan cheese. This adds depth to your bbq shrimp seasoning. You can create many amazing shrimp dishes.

“Grilled shrimp is a quick and easy way to bring the flavors of the coast to your own backyard. With the right marinade or seasoning, you can transport your taste buds to a beachside paradise.”

Grilling Equipment and Setup

To grill your shrimp skewers perfectly, you need the right tools and a well-set grill. Choose the best skewers, whether wooden or metal. Wooden skewers need soaking in water for 20 minutes to avoid burning.

Skewer Options and Preparation

There are different skewer types to pick from. Wooden skewers are traditional but need soaking to prevent burning. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t need soaking, making them easy to use.

• Wooden skewers: Soak in water for 20 minutes before using to prevent burning on the grill.
• Metal skewers: Reusable and don’t need to be soaked.

Grill Temperature Control

Heat your grill to medium-high, about 375°F. The right temperature is key for even cooking your shrimp skewers. Watch the grill closely and adjust the heat to get a nice char without drying out the shrimp.

Essential Grilling Tools

Along with your grill setup and bbq tools, have these key items ready for grilling your shrimp:

1. Tongs: For safely handling and turning the shrimp skewers.
2. Grill brush: To clean the grates before and after cooking.
3. Small bowl: For basting the shrimp with your garlic butter sauce.

With the right shrimp skewers, grill setup, and bbq tools, you’re ready to grill delicious BBQ shrimp at home.

Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions

Grilling shrimp is a quick and easy way to enjoy seafood at home. Follow these simple steps for perfectly grilled shrimp:

1. Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers, about 8 per skewer. This makes them easier to handle and ensures even cooking.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
3. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 3 minutes per side for large or extra-large shrimp. For jumbo shrimp, add an extra 30 seconds per side.
4. Cook the shrimp until they are opaque throughout, being careful not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
5. While grilling, baste the shrimp with a garlic butter or the reserved marinade for extra flavor.
6. Don’t expect prominent grill marks on the shrimp due to their quick cooking time, but they should develop a slightly charred appearance.

With these easy steps, you can make delicious grilled shrimp in no time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a backyard barbecue.

“Grilled shrimp is a quick and easy way to enjoy this versatile seafood at home.”

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Pairing your BBQ shrimp with the right sides can be endless. Light and refreshing dishes are perfect with the smoky flavors of grilled seafood. Try a variety of options to find your favorite.

Complementary Sides

Refreshing summer salads are a great match for BBQ shrimp. A Edamame Quinoa Salad, Fattoush Salad, or Greek Salad can add a burst of flavor. For something heartier, Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables or Cheesy Mashed Potatoes are great choices.

Don’t forget the bread for dipping in shrimp sauce. Warm Air Fryer Garlic Bread or soft Sweet Bread Rolls are perfect for this.

Sauce Pairings

There are many sauce options to pair with BBQ shrimp. A Garlic Butter Drizzle or Lemon-Herb Sauce can enhance the flavors. Use buttered rice or Sourdough Dutch Oven Bread to soak up sauce.

Adding lemon wedges on the side lets guests add a citrusy twist. It makes the dish even more enjoyable.

“The key to a truly satisfying BBQ shrimp dish is finding the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the accompaniments.”

Storage and Leftover Tips

Storing your grilled shrimp is easy. Let them cool down completely before putting them in an airtight container. This keeps them juicy and prevents them from drying out. Your grilled shrimp can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Don’t waste those tasty leftovers! You can turn them into many quick meals. Add them to a arugula salad for a protein-rich lunch or a Cobb salad for dinner. For a quick snack, use them in shrimp tacos.

To reheat your shrimp, use gentle heat. Microwave them at 50% power, checking every 30 seconds. This keeps them tender. You can also warm them up in a pasta dish or skillet for a tasty meal.

Enjoying leftover grilled shrimp is all about care and creativity. Follow these tips to enjoy their flavors for days.

“The key to enjoying your leftover grilled shrimp is to handle them with care and utilize their versatility in a variety of dishes.”

Conclusion

Grilled BBQ shrimp is a tasty seafood dish you can make at home. You can choose from traditional New Orleans-style or a healthier grilled version. This dish offers many flavors and ways to prepare it, fitting your taste.

With the right ingredients and grilling techniques, you can make a easy bbq shrimp recipe like a pro. Enjoy grilled seafood at home with ease.

Knowing the best shrimp sizes and cooking times is key. Using metal skewers helps your shrimp cook evenly. Also, knowing the difference between wild-caught and farm-raised shrimp is important.

It doesn’t matter if you grill indoors or outdoors. The secret to success is following the grilling steps and trying different seasonings. Soon, you’ll be making grilled shrimp that will wow everyone. Your backyard will become the go-to place for easy bbq shrimp recipe and grilled seafood at home.

FAQ

What is the approximate cooking time for this BBQ shrimp recipe?

This BBQ shrimp recipe cooks in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight.

How do you prepare the shrimp for grilling?

Coat the shrimp in a tasty marinade. Use olive oil, garlic, herbs, tomato paste, lemon juice, and spices. Or, try a dry rub with paprika, ancho chili powder, cumin, salt, and sugar.

What type of shrimp is best for grilling?

Choose large, extra-large, or jumbo shrimp for grilling. Smaller shrimp can dry out fast. Frozen shrimp are often fresher than “fresh” ones from the supermarket.

How do you properly grill the shrimp?

Grill the shrimp on wooden or metal skewers. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Cook for 3 minutes per side for large shrimp, adding 30 seconds per side for jumbo ones.

What are some good side dishes to serve with BBQ shrimp?

Serve BBQ shrimp with light sides like coleslaw, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad. Roasted fennel, zucchini, asparagus, or mini peppers are also tasty options.

How can you store and reheat leftover grilled shrimp?

Keep leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.