One grill, 20 minutes, zero stress. This grilled BBQ shrimp is the ultimate summer shortcut. It is fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights. Your family will love the smoky, charred finish.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
It takes less than five minutes to cook. The smoky rub adds deep flavor quickly. It is a healthy weeknight dinner choice. Even picky eaters enjoy the tangy glaze. Perfect for hot summer evenings outside.
Simple Method for Grilled BBQ Shrimp
You just toss the shrimp in spices. Let them sit for a few minutes. Thread them onto skewers for easy flipping. The grill does all the hard work. You can master the grill with this recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these are simple pantry staples. Use fresh shrimp for the best texture.
- 1.5 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes prior to use; otherwise, thread the shrimp onto metal skewers.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the shrimp skewers on the grill grate and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- During the final minute of cooking, brush the shrimp generously with a mixture of barbecue sauce and lemon juice.
- Remove from the heat source and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these over a bed of rice. Add a side of grilled corn. A fresh coleslaw balances the smoky heat. It makes a perfect patio meal for friends. Pack leftovers for a quick lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh for two days. Reheat gently in a pan with butter. Avoid the microwave to keep them tender. Cold shrimp are great on salads too. You can also freeze cooked shrimp.
Tips for Best Results
- Soak wooden skewers for 20 minutes first.
- Do not overcook the shrimp.
- Use jumbo shrimp for the best results.
- Brush the sauce on at the end.
- Add fresh summer herbs as a garnish.
- Make sure your grill is very hot.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add honey for a sweeter glaze.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon.
- Make it a spicy version with extra cayenne.
- Swap the shrimp for scallops occasionally.
- Use a dairy-free BBQ sauce if needed.
Quick Answers
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely first. Pat them dry before adding the marinade. This helps the grilled BBQ shrimp get a good char.
How do I know when they are done?
Look for an opaque pink color. They should feel firm to the touch. They usually take only five minutes total. Watch them closely so they stay juicy.
I hope this fast summer dinner makes your week easier. It is the perfect way to enjoy a warm evening outside. Happy cooking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes prior to use; otherwise, thread the shrimp onto metal skewers.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the shrimp skewers on the grill grate and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- During the final minute of cooking, brush the shrimp generously with a mixture of barbecue sauce and lemon juice.
- Remove from the heat source and serve immediately.
