BBQ Shrimp

These BBQ Shrimp are a flavor explosion! Grilled to juicy perfection, they’re coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce with just the right amount of heat. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon, they’re not only delicious but visually stunning.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Perfectly seasoned shrimp cooked on the grill deliver bold, smoky flavors that everyone loves. Whether served as an appetizer or as part of a seafood dinner, BBQ Shrimp is sure to be the star of your next meal.

Full Recipe:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, BBQ sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to marinate.

4. Thread the shrimp onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling).

5. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.

6. Remove from the grill and drizzle with lemon juice, if desired.

7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 16 minutes

Kcal: 200 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

BBQ Shrimp: A Flavorful, Smoky Delight

BBQ Shrimp is one of the most beloved dishes, especially when it comes to summer grilling or backyard barbecues. The combination of tender shrimp, smoky flavors, and a tangy BBQ sauce is a crowd-pleaser. This dish is quick to prepare, easy to cook, and bursting with bold flavors that will make it a staple in your grilling repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner looking for something impressive, BBQ Shrimp is a fantastic choice that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

Why BBQ Shrimp Is So Popular

BBQ Shrimp brings together the perfect balance of smokiness, spice, and sweetness, thanks to the combination of a good BBQ sauce and seasoning. What makes it so appealing is its versatility; BBQ shrimp can be grilled, baked, or even cooked on a stovetop, making it a great option for all seasons, even if you don’t have access to a grill. It’s also a dish that works equally well as a main course, an appetizer, or even as part of a seafood platter. The shrimp absorb the BBQ sauce beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.

Choosing the Right Shrimp for BBQ Shrimp

When it comes to making BBQ Shrimp, the quality of the shrimp you use plays a significant role in the final dish. For the best results, opt for large, fresh shrimp that are still in their shells or peeled, depending on your preference. The key is to choose shrimp that are plump and firm. Avoid buying shrimp that looks mushy or has a strong fishy odor. If you’re buying frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to avoid a watery texture. If you’re using shelled shrimp, ensure they’re deveined, as the vein can add an unpleasant taste.

Marinating BBQ Shrimp: The Secret to Maximum Flavor

While it may be tempting to simply toss shrimp with BBQ sauce and call it a day, marinating the shrimp for at least 15-20 minutes enhances the flavor profile immensely. A good marinade includes not only BBQ sauce but also spices, herbs, and a bit of acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar. This combination tenderizes the shrimp while infusing them with the smoky, spicy flavor of the marinade. Marinating is an important step to create depth and balance in the dish. Don’t rush it; a quick marinade can make all the difference.

Grilling BBQ Shrimp: The Perfect Technique

Grilling is arguably the best way to cook BBQ shrimp, as it imparts a smoky flavor that complements the rich, tangy BBQ sauce perfectly. However, grilling shrimp requires a delicate balance to avoid overcooking. Shrimp cooks very quickly—usually in just 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. To ensure the shrimp don’t stick to the grill and cook evenly, it’s recommended to use skewers. Thread the shrimp onto skewers in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. If you’re worried about shrimp falling through the grates, you can also use a grill basket designed for seafood.

It’s also important to preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking the shrimp. A hot grill ensures that the shrimp will cook quickly and evenly, leaving you with a perfect texture and no rubbery results. Be sure to check the shrimp for doneness by looking for an opaque, pink color. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and chewy, so be mindful of the timing.

Grilled BBQ Shrimp Variations

While BBQ Shrimp in its classic form is delicious on its own, there are several ways to enhance or adjust the flavors based on your preferences. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try adding some cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chili powder to the marinade. For a touch of sweetness, you can use a honey BBQ sauce or add a bit of brown sugar to the marinade. Another option is to include a hint of smokiness by adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce. You can even get creative by pairing BBQ shrimp with different types of wood chips for added flavor if you’re using a smoker.

For those who enjoy a tangy twist, consider making a citrus BBQ shrimp by incorporating lime or orange juice into the marinade. The zesty citrus complements the smoky BBQ sauce and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness. You can also experiment by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the sauce to give it a burst of freshness.

Serving BBQ Shrimp

Once the BBQ shrimp is grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve them up! They can be served straight off the skewers for a fun and casual presentation or removed and placed on a platter. BBQ shrimp pairs beautifully with side dishes such as grilled corn, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or even a light pasta salad. For a more substantial meal, serve the shrimp over rice or with a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up the BBQ sauce.

If you’re hosting a party or gathering, BBQ Shrimp makes an excellent appetizer. Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking, or pair them with a dipping sauce like garlic butter or a creamy ranch dressing for added flavor.

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Shrimp

To ensure your BBQ shrimp is absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips:

1. Use fresh, high-quality shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture. If possible, buy shrimp from a trusted seafood market.

2. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid them becoming rubbery. Remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

3. Season generously: Don’t skimp on the spices and herbs in your marinade. A well-seasoned BBQ sauce is the key to making the shrimp flavorful.

4. Marinate for flavor: Always marinate your shrimp for at least 15-20 minutes, but you can marinate them longer for even more intense flavor. Just don’t let them sit for too long, as the acid can begin to break down the shrimp’s texture.

5. Skewering is key: Use skewers to prevent shrimp from falling through the grill grates, and ensure they cook evenly.

Conclusion: The Ultimate BBQ Shrimp Experience

BBQ Shrimp is the epitome of a summer grilling classic that can be enjoyed by all. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ with friends or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is always a hit. The smoky flavors, tender shrimp, and tangy BBQ sauce come together to create a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the right shrimp, marinade, and grilling technique, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own backyard. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices to make this dish your own. The beauty of BBQ shrimp is in its versatility, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll have a go-to dish that will impress every time.

Enjoy your BBQ shrimp with your favorite sides and drinks, and you’ll have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Happy grilling!