Grilled shrimp is a tasty summer favorite that’s quick and easy to make. These small seafood treats cook up fast on the grill, soaking up smoky flavors while staying juicy and tender.
You can enjoy grilled shrimp on their own, in salads, or as part of other dishes.
With the right recipes, you can take your grilled shrimp to the next level. From spicy marinades to sweet glazes, there are many ways to add extra flavor.
This collection of grilled shrimp recipes gives you lots of options to try. You’ll find ideas for different seasonings, sauces, and ways to serve grilled shrimp that will make your meals more exciting.
1. Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp
Garlic butter grilled shrimp is a tasty and easy dish to make. Start by mixing melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and herbs in a bowl.
Pat the shrimp dry and thread them onto skewers. Brush the shrimp with the garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
For extra flavor, place lemon halves cut-side down on the grill while cooking the shrimp. Brush with more garlic butter before serving.
2. Honey Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Honey lime grilled shrimp skewers are a tasty summer dish. You’ll love the sweet and tangy flavor combo.
To make them, mix honey, lime juice, garlic, and spices for the marinade. Coat your shrimp and let them sit for 15-30 minutes.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers with lime wedges. This adds extra zest and looks great.
Grill the skewers at 425°F for 3-4 minutes per side. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
For extra flavor, brush some reserved marinade on the shrimp while grilling. Serve hot off the grill for a delicious meal.
3. Cajun Grilled Shrimp
Cajun grilled shrimp brings spicy Louisiana flavors to your backyard barbecue. To make this dish, coat shrimp in a zesty Cajun seasoning mix and olive oil.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned shrimp directly on the oiled grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
For added flavor, thread lemon wedges between the shrimp on skewers before grilling. Serve your Cajun grilled shrimp hot off the grill with a spicy dipping sauce for extra kick.
4. Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
Lemon herb grilled shrimp is a tasty and refreshing summer dish. You can make it easily with a few simple ingredients.
Start by soaking wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, and herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano in a bowl.
Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the marinade. Coat the shrimp in this mixture for extra flavor.
Grill the shrimp skewers over medium-high heat. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
The result is juicy, tangy shrimp perfect for a light meal or appetizer.
5. Bacon Wrapped Grilled Shrimp
Bacon wrapped grilled shrimp is a tasty treat for your next barbecue. Start by partially cooking the bacon in the oven for 10 minutes at 400°F. This ensures it crisps up nicely on the grill.
While the bacon cooks, mix butter or olive oil with spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic. Coat the shrimp in this mixture. Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon.
Grill the shrimp over indirect heat for about 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through and brush with barbecue sauce if you like.
The shrimp are done when they turn pink and the bacon is crispy.
6. Chipotle Lime Grilled Shrimp
This zesty shrimp dish packs a flavorful punch. Mix chipotle powder, cumin, brown sugar, lime zest, and juice to create a bold marinade.
Coat peeled and deveined shrimp in the mixture. Let them soak up the flavors for 15-30 minutes.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers. If using wooden ones, soak them in water first to prevent burning.
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat. Cook for about 1-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
For extra zing, brush some leftover marinade on the shrimp while grilling. Serve hot and enjoy the smoky, citrusy taste.
7. Teriyaki Grilled Shrimp
Teriyaki grilled shrimp is a tasty and quick meal option. To make it, you’ll need large shrimp, soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and garlic.
Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Cook the mixture in a saucepan until it thickens slightly.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque.
Brush the cooked shrimp with the teriyaki sauce. For extra flavor, sprinkle cilantro and sesame seeds on top before serving.
You can pair this dish with grilled veggies or rice for a complete meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues.
8. Spicy Sriracha Grilled Shrimp
Spicy sriracha grilled shrimp is a tasty dish that packs a punch. You’ll love the mix of heat and sweet flavors in this recipe.
Start by mixing sriracha sauce with garlic, butter, and ginger for a zesty marinade. Coat your shrimp in this mix and let them soak up the flavors.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling. Cook them on a hot grill for just a few minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
Serve these spicy shrimp as an appetizer or main dish. They’re great on their own or in tacos.
You can adjust the heat level by using more or less sriracha sauce.
9. Pesto Grilled Shrimp
Pesto grilled shrimp is a tasty and simple dish you can make at home. Start by mixing basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor to create the pesto.
Coat raw shrimp with the pesto and let them marinate for 20-30 minutes in the fridge. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, making sure to soak wooden ones in water first to prevent burning.
Grill the shrimp skewers over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re cooked through. The pesto adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor to the smoky grilled shrimp.
10. Sweet and Spicy Thai Grilled Shrimp
This tasty recipe combines sweet and spicy flavors for a delicious Thai-inspired shrimp dish. Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, then season them with salt and pepper.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers, about 4-5 per stick. Heat your grill to high, around 500°F.
Grill the skewers directly over the heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
While grilling, baste the shrimp with a mixture of Thai red chili sauce and honey. This adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Serve these flavorful grilled shrimp as an appetizer or main course. They pair well with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
11. Margarita Grilled Shrimp
Margarita grilled shrimp brings the zesty flavors of your favorite cocktail to the grill. You’ll love this tasty twist on classic grilled shrimp.
Start by marinating the shrimp in a mix of olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic. For an extra kick, add a splash of tequila.
Let the shrimp soak up the flavors for 30 minutes to 3 hours in the fridge. Thread them onto skewers with lime slices for easy grilling.
Cook the shrimp on a medium-high heat grill for 3-4 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn opaque and have nice char marks.
Serve your margarita grilled shrimp hot off the grill with a sprinkle of cilantro and fresh lime wedges.
12. Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Grilled shrimp tacos are a delicious and easy meal. To make them, toss shrimp with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.
While waiting, make a simple slaw with cabbage, lime juice, and salt. You can also add mango and jalapeño for extra flavor.
Grill the shrimp for about 3 minutes per side. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
Warm your tortillas on the grill for a few seconds. Fill them with the grilled shrimp and top with the slaw.
Add a dollop of spicy mayo for extra kick.
13. Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Mediterranean grilled shrimp brings the flavors of the sunny Mediterranean to your plate. You’ll love this simple yet tasty dish.
Start by marinating the shrimp in olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and herbs like oregano and parsley. This infuses them with bright, zesty flavors.
Grill the shrimp over high heat for just 3-4 minutes per side. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
The high heat gives them a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.
Serve your grilled shrimp with colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a complete meal. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top adds a tangy finish.
14. Asian Sesame Grilled Shrimp
Asian Sesame Grilled Shrimp brings a delightful twist to your barbecue. This dish combines savory and sweet flavors that will please your taste buds.
To make it, you’ll marinate shrimp in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients infuse the shrimp with classic Asian flavors.
Grill the shrimp for just a few minutes on each side. Be careful not to overcook them – they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the grilled shrimp for added crunch and visual appeal. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.
This recipe works great as an appetizer or main dish. You can easily double or triple the amount to feed a crowd at your next cookout.
15. Barbecue Grilled Shrimp
Barbecue grilled shrimp brings a smoky, sweet flavor to your summer cookouts. Start by marinating your shrimp in a mix of BBQ sauce, olive oil, and spices for 30 minutes.
Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer. This makes them easy to flip on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
Brush extra BBQ sauce on the shrimp while grilling for more flavor.
Serve your barbecue grilled shrimp hot off the grill. They’re great on their own or as part of a larger meal.
16. Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp
Chili lime grilled shrimp is a tasty and easy summer dish. You can make it quickly for a cookout or weeknight dinner.
To prepare, mix chili powder, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Add salt, pepper, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. This creates a flavorful marinade for the shrimp.
Coat the shrimp in the marinade. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
Don’t marinate longer, as the lime juice can start cooking the shrimp.
Grill the shrimp for about 3 minutes per side. The exact time depends on their size. They’re done when pink and slightly curled.
Serve your chili lime grilled shrimp hot off the grill. They’re great on their own or in tacos and salads.
17. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp
Garlic Parmesan grilled shrimp is a tasty and quick meal option. You can make this dish in about 10 minutes.
Start by preheating your grill to 350°F. Brush the grates with oil to stop the shrimp from sticking.
Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Add the shrimp and coat them well.
Grill the shrimp for about 5 minutes total. Flip them halfway through cooking.
They’ll turn pink when done.
After grilling, sprinkle the shrimp with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice. Add some chopped parsley for extra flavor.
18. Honey Garlic Grilled Shrimp
Honey garlic grilled shrimp is a tasty dish you can make easily. Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a quick marinade. Add some lime zest and sriracha for extra flavor.
Marinate the shrimp for 30-60 minutes in the fridge. While waiting, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
Brush extra marinade on the shrimp while grilling for more flavor.
Serve these sweet and savory shrimp hot off the grill. They’re great on their own or as part of a larger meal.
19. Paprika Lime Grilled Shrimp
Get ready for a burst of flavor with paprika lime grilled shrimp. This recipe combines smoky paprika with zesty lime for a tasty twist.
Mix paprika, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl. Add your shrimp and coat them well. Let them marinate for 15 minutes in the fridge.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Serve these tangy shrimp hot off the grill. They’re perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Pair them with a fresh salad or grilled veggies for a complete meal.
20. Tropical Coconut Grilled Shrimp
You’ll love this tropical twist on grilled shrimp. Start by marinating jumbo shrimp in a mix of coconut milk, lime juice, and honey.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium heat for about 2 minutes per side. The shrimp will turn pink when cooked through.
For extra flavor, brush the shrimp with a coconut-rum glaze while grilling. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.
Pair your tropical coconut grilled shrimp with coconut sticky rice for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner.
Tips for Grilling the Perfect Shrimp
Grilling shrimp can be quick and easy with the right techniques. Follow these tips to get tasty results every time.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Pick fresh or thawed shrimp that smell clean like the ocean. Bigger shrimp work best for grilling. Look for jumbo or colossal sizes, about 16-20 per pound.
Shell-on shrimp keep more flavor, but peeled and deveined are easier to eat. Choose based on your preference.
For best taste, buy wild-caught shrimp when possible. Farmed shrimp can work too, but may have less flavor.
Check the color – raw shrimp should be grayish. Avoid any with black spots or sliminess.
Preparing Shrimp for Grilling
Thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, put them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them get a nice sear on the grill.
Marinate shrimp for 15-30 minutes before grilling. Use olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for flavor.
Don’t marinate too long – the acid in marinades can start to cook the shrimp.
Thread shrimp onto skewers to make them easier to flip. Soak wooden skewers in water first so they don’t burn.
Ideal Grilling Techniques
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375-450°F. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side. They cook fast, so watch them closely.
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl into a C-shape. Straight shrimp are undercooked, while tight O-shapes are overcooked.
For even cooking, spread shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the grill.
Use tongs to flip shrimp halfway through cooking. This gives them nice grill marks on both sides.
Baste with marinade or butter while grilling for extra flavor. But stop basting in the last minute of cooking.
Flavor Combinations and Marinades
Marinades are key to tasty grilled shrimp. They add flavor and keep the shrimp moist. Let’s look at some popular marinade ingredients and flavor profiles.
Classic Marinade Ingredients
Olive oil is a common base for shrimp marinades. It helps other flavors stick to the shrimp. Lemon juice adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat. Garlic is another staple, giving a savory kick.
For herbs, try parsley or Italian seasoning. They pair well with seafood. Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. A touch of Dijon mustard can give depth.
Don’t forget Worcestershire sauce. It brings a tangy, complex flavor. For sweetness, a drizzle of honey works wonders.
Mix these ingredients in a bowl. Add your shrimp and let them soak for about an hour before grilling.
Spicy and Bold Flavors
If you like heat, add chili flakes or hot sauce to your marinade.
Paprika gives a smoky flavor without too much spice.
For a tropical twist, try lime juice instead of lemon.
Honey and chili make a great sweet-heat combo.
Lime juice balances it out nicely.
This mix is perfect for summer grilling.
For an Asian flair, use sesame oil as your base.
Add ginger, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar.
A bit of sriracha sauce can kick up the heat.
Cajun seasoning is another bold choice.
Mix it with oil and lemon for a zesty Southern taste.
Remember, marinate for just 15-30 minutes with acidic ingredients to avoid tough shrimp.