Easy & Delicious BBQ Shrimp Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Grilled Shrimp

Introduction

This BBQ shrimp recipe is a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and BBQ enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking to try a new dish, this BBQ shrimp recipe will make you a star in the kitchen. Not only is this recipe quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with bold, smoky flavors that shrimp are known for absorbing so well.

From the rich smokiness of grilled shrimp to the buttery spiced sauce of New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, this guide covers all the essential steps for creating a mouthwatering BBQ shrimp recipe. We’ll walk you through everything—from choosing the right shrimp to serving suggestions, ensuring you end up with a perfect dish every time. Ready to dive into this delicious BBQ shrimp recipe? Let’s get started!

What is BBQ Shrimp?

BBQ shrimp, despite its name, doesn’t always require a barbecue grill. This versatile dish can be prepared on the stovetop, in the oven, or on an outdoor grill. The key is the marinade or sauce, which usually contains a mix of butter, garlic, lemon, and spices.

There are several ways to make BBQ shrimp. For example, New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp is not grilled but cooked in a buttery, tangy sauce, while other versions rely on grilling shrimp after marinating them in BBQ sauce. Both versions result in tender, juicy shrimp packed with flavor.

Regional Differences in BBQ Shrimp

In Louisiana, BBQ shrimp means something completely different from the grilled shrimp many people expect. New Orleans BBQ shrimp is typically made with a rich, buttery sauce flavored with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. On the other hand, BBQ shrimp in other parts of the country often refers to grilled shrimp basted in barbecue sauce. Regardless of the version, this BBQ shrimp recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients for BBQ Shrimp

When making BBQ shrimp, the ingredients you use can significantly influence the final flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for a classic BBQ shrimp recipe:

Shrimp

For this BBQ shrimp recipe, it’s best to use large shrimp (16-20 per pound). Jumbo shrimp will also work well. Always peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for a more attractive presentation.

Butter and Garlic

Butter is a key ingredient in New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp. When combined with garlic, it creates a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. Similarly, for grilled BBQ shrimp, garlic is usually incorporated into the marinade or BBQ sauce.

BBQ Sauce

For grilled BBQ shrimp, a quality BBQ sauce is essential. You can make your own or use a store-bought sauce, depending on your preference. Choose a sauce that aligns with your desired flavor profile, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy.

Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is an indispensable component of New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp. Not only does it provide a deep, umami-rich flavor, but it also elevates the sauce and complements the shrimp perfectly.

Lemon Juice

A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness and acidity, which balances the richness of the butter or BBQ sauce. Lemon also enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Optional Additions

• Honey: For a sweet BBQ shrimp recipe, add honey to your sauce or marinade.
• Cayenne Pepper: For those who enjoy spicy food, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the recipe.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a fresh element to the dish and makes it look more visually appealing.

Step-by-Step BBQ Shrimp Recipe

This BBQ shrimp recipe can be adapted to your cooking style, whether you’re using a grill, stovetop, or oven. Follow these steps to achieve perfect results.

Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp

Start by preparing your shrimp. First and foremost, for this BBQ shrimp recipe, it’s crucial to ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Once that’s done, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

For grilled BBQ shrimp, marinate the shrimp in your BBQ sauce for 30 minutes. This will allow the shrimp to absorb the smoky and sweet flavors of the sauce. If you’re making New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and spices, then set them aside while you prepare the butter sauce.

Step 2: Making the BBQ Sauce

A good BBQ sauce is essential for this BBQ shrimp recipe, especially if you’re grilling the shrimp. Here’s a simple homemade BBQ sauce you can try:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Let the sauce cool before using it as a marinade or basting sauce for the shrimp.

For New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, melt 1 cup of butter in a large skillet. Add minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes until the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and slightly charred. Baste the shrimp with BBQ sauce while grilling to enhance the flavor.
• Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. For New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, pour the butter sauce over the shrimp and simmer for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once the shrimp are cooked, finish them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve the grilled BBQ shrimp with extra BBQ sauce, or enjoy the New Orleans-style shrimp with crusty French bread to soak up the delicious butter sauce.

Variations of BBQ Shrimp Recipes

One of the best things about this BBQ shrimp recipe is its versatility. In fact, you can easily adjust the flavors or cooking method to suit your preferences. For example, below are a few variations you can try.

New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp

This variation involves cooking shrimp in a savory butter sauce rather than grilling them. The result is a rich, flavorful dish that’s best served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Honey BBQ Shrimp

For a sweet and tangy twist, try honey BBQ shrimp. Add honey to your BBQ sauce or marinade and let the shrimp soak in the flavors before grilling. The honey will caramelize on the grill, creating a sticky, irresistible glaze.

Spicy BBQ Shrimp

If you like your shrimp with a bit of heat, simply add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your BBQ sauce. Alternatively, you can use a spicy BBQ sauce for a bolder flavor. In either case, spicy BBQ shrimp pairs beautifully with cooling sides like coleslaw or a fresh green salad.

Cajun BBQ Shrimp

For a Southern-inspired twist, season the shrimp with Cajun spices before grilling. The bold, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making this variation a favorite for those who enjoy a little heat.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Shrimp

For a successful BBQ shrimp recipe, it’s essential to follow these key tips:

1. Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Grill or pan-sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.

2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the shrimp in BBQ sauce or a spice mix before cooking helps to infuse them with flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but avoid marinating for too long, as the acid in the sauce can break down the shrimp’s texture.

3. Use Skewers for Grilling

If you’re grilling shrimp, skewers help keep them from falling through the grill grates and make flipping easier. Be sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

4. Select the Right Size Shrimp

For this BBQ shrimp recipe, it’s best to use large or jumbo shrimp. Smaller shrimp tend to overcook quickly, while larger shrimp remain juicy and tender during grilling or pan-searing.

Nutritional Information of BBQ Shrimp

BBQ shrimp is a nutrient-dense dish, which makes it a healthy option for seafood lovers. To give you a clearer idea, here’s the nutritional breakdown for a standard serving of BBQ shrimp:

• Calories: 200-300 per serving, depending on the amount of butter or BBQ sauce used
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams (mainly from the butter or oil used in the recipe)
• Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams (depending on the BBQ sauce)
• Sodium: Moderate to high, especially with store-bought BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce

Shrimp are also an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and important micronutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. To make the dish lighter, reduce the amount of butter or opt for a low-calorie BBQ sauce.

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Shrimp

This BBQ shrimp recipe pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to complement the dish:

• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make for great side dishes when grilled alongside the shrimp.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve BBQ shrimp over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Crusty Bread: For New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, crusty French bread is a must for soaking up the rich butter sauce.
• Salad: A light, refreshing salad adds a nice contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of BBQ shrimp.

For beverages, pair this BBQ shrimp recipe with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing beer. Lemonade or iced tea also work well for a non-alcoholic option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making BBQ Shrimp

While this BBQ shrimp recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid.

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly, so it’s essential to keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

2. Not Thawing Shrimp Properly

Always thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking. Cooking shrimp that are still partially frozen can result in unevenly cooked shrimp and a watery texture.

3. Forgetting to Season

Shrimp have a mild flavor on their own, so seasoning is key. Whether you’re marinating the shrimp or using a dry rub, be sure to season them thoroughly to enhance their flavor.

4. Skipping the Lemon Juice

Lemon juice adds a bright, refreshing flavor that effectively cuts through the richness of the butter or BBQ sauce. To enhance the dish even more, always finish your shrimp with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp is best for BBQ?

For this BBQ shrimp recipe, large shrimp (16-20 per pound) work best. Specifically, they’re big enough to stay juicy on the grill or in the pan while also avoiding overcooking.

Can I make BBQ shrimp without a grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, don’t worry—instead, you can cook shrimp on the stovetop using a grill pan or a large skillet. In fact, pan-searing shrimp gives you a nice, crispy exterior without the need for a grill.

How long should shrimp be marinated for BBQ?

Shrimp should be marinated for at least 30 minutes, but no more than an hour. Marinating too long can break down the shrimp’s texture.

Can I make BBQ shrimp in advance?

Yes, you can prepare BBQ shrimp in advance. After cooking, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.

Is BBQ shrimp gluten-free?

Yes, shrimp are naturally gluten-free. However, be sure to check your BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce for gluten, as some store-bought versions may contain gluten.

Final Thoughts and Variations to Try

This BBQ shrimp recipe is versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, BBQ shrimp is a flavorful dish that works for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces, from honey BBQ to spicy Cajun flavors.

Follow the tips provided to ensure your shrimp are cooked to perfection, and don’t forget the lemon juice for that final burst of freshness. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, BBQ shrimp is a dish that’s sure to impress.

Conclusion

This BBQ shrimp recipe offers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. Whether you’re grilling your shrimp or cooking them New Orleans-style in a buttery sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Now that you have all the steps, tips, and variations, it’s time to fire up the grill and start cooking! Enjoy your BBQ shrimp, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family. Happy grilling!