The Best BBQ Shrimp Recipe: Bold, Juicy, and Easy to Make

Craving a seafood dish that’s as bold as it is easy to prepare? Look no further than this comprehensive guide to making BBQ shrimp. Known for its rich, smoky flavors and juicy texture, BBQ shrimp recipe is perfect for everything from summer cookouts to cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful dish from scratch.


Why BBQ Shrimp?

Shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with lean protein and essential nutrients. It’s quick to cook and absorbs marinades beautifully, making it a versatile option for any meal. If you’re looking to add other delectable dishes to your repertoire, consider trying this smoked queso recipe for another BBQ-friendly favorite.


Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect BBQ shrimp recipe, gather the following:

  • Fresh Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp work best.
  • BBQ Sauce: Use a store-bought variety or make your own.
  • Garlic and Butter: Key for adding depth to the dish.
  • Seasonings: Paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  • Optional Add-ins: Lemon juice or honey for a sweet and tangy twist.

For sides, you might want to pair this dish with something hearty like this million-dollar chicken casserole, which offers a rich, creamy balance to the smoky shrimp.


Step-by-Step Recipe for BBQ Shrimp

Creating the perfect BBQ shrimp recipe starts with careful preparation and attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish that will impress every time.

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to remove any residue or grit, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp ensure the marinade adheres better, enhancing the flavor. Remove the shells while leaving the tails intact. The tails not only add a touch of elegance to the presentation but also make the shrimp easier to handle while eating. Carefully devein the shrimp by making a shallow incision along the back and removing the dark vein. This step is essential for both aesthetics and taste.

2. Create the Marinade

The marinade is the heart of this recipe, infusing the shrimp with bold, smoky flavors. In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or a homemade version for a personal touch.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds a rich, velvety texture to the marinade.
  • 2 cloves minced garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic base.
  • Juice of one lemon: Balances the richness with a zesty brightness.

Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. Toss the shrimp in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

3. Choose Your Cooking Method

Depending on your available equipment and preferences, there are three excellent ways to cook your marinated shrimp:

Grilling

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easier handling and to prevent them from falling through the grates. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly charred. This method adds a smoky, caramelized flavor that complements the BBQ marinade.

Stovetop

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 3–4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. The stovetop method provides a quick and convenient option, producing juicy shrimp with a slightly crisp exterior.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with foil and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Brush with additional marinade for extra flavor. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked. Baking is an excellent method for cooking larger quantities of shrimp evenly and without much supervision.

By carefully following these steps, you’ll create perfectly cooked BBQ shrimp that are bursting with flavor. Whether grilled, sautéed, or baked, these shrimp are guaranteed to be a hit at any meal or gathering.


Tips for Achieving Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Perfectly cooked shrimp are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making them the highlight of any BBQ shrimp recipe. To achieve this, start by selecting shrimp of uniform size. Consistent sizing ensures that all the shrimp cook at the same rate, preventing some from overcooking while others remain underdone. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry. Removing excess moisture allows marinades and seasonings to adhere better, which is essential for a flavorful BBQ shrimp recipe.

Shrimp cook remarkably quickly, so timing is everything. Use medium-high heat whether grilling, sautéing, or baking to create a lightly caramelized exterior while locking in moisture. Watch closely as the shrimp turn from translucent to opaque with a bright pink color. Their shape is also a clue; perfectly cooked shrimp form a loose “C.” Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” shape and take on a rubbery texture, which should be avoided in any BBQ shrimp recipe.

For added flavor, consider brushing the shrimp with extra marinade or butter during the cooking process. Once cooked, remove them from the heat immediately and let them rest for a minute or two. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp every time!

A plate of BBQ shrimp glazed with rich sauce, garnished with parsley and lemon, served alongside cornbread and grilled vegetables

Flavor Variations

Personalize your BBQ shrimp recipe with these variations:

  • Spicy Shrimp: Add more cayenne or chili flakes.
  • Sweet & Smoky: Incorporate honey or brown sugar.
  • Herby Delight: Toss in parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your BBQ shrimp with sides that complement its bold flavors:

  • A fresh garden salad or creamy coleslaw.
  • Crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the sauce.
  • Grilled veggies like asparagus or zucchini.

For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter mushrooms recipe, which makes a perfect accompaniment.


Tips for Success

  • Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp ensures better flavor and texture.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
  • Rest for Flavor: Let shrimp rest for 2 minutes post-cooking to lock in the marinade.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, but ensure they’re fully thawed and dried before cooking.
  • What’s the best way to reheat BBQ shrimp?
    Use a skillet over low heat to preserve texture and flavor.
  • What shrimp size is best?
    Large or jumbo shrimp work best due to their meaty texture.
  • What is the best way to barbecue shrimp?
    Marinate shrimp, thread onto skewers, and grill on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
  • What goes with barbeque shrimp?
    Serve with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, cornbread, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad.
  • Is it better to barbecue shrimp with shell on or off?
    Shell-on shrimp stay juicier, but shell-off absorbs marinade better and is easier to eat.
  • Is it best to cook shrimp in butter or oil?
    Butter adds rich flavor; oil is better for high-heat cooking. A mix works well.

Conclusion

With this guide, making BBQ shrimp is a breeze. Whether you’re grilling, sautéing, or baking, this dish is versatile and packed with flavor. Don’t forget to pair it with sides like garlic butter mushrooms or even smoked queso to round out your meal. It’s time to fire up your grill and savor the deliciousness of perfectly cooked BBQ shrimp!

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