Grilled shrimp on the barbecue is a delicious and easy meal that can be prepared in just minutes. With a few simple steps, you can have tender, juicy shrimp with wonderful smoky flavors in no time. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to grill shrimp on a BBQ to perfection.
Ingredients Needed
- Raw, peeled and deveined shrimp – go for jumbo size shrimp for best results
- Skewers – soaked in water for 30 minutes prior if using wooden skewers
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for coating
- Salt and pepper or favorite seasoning blend
Prep the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold running water and then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Leave the tails on for presentation or snap them off for easier eating.
- Toss the shrimp with some olive oil or vegetable oil, just enough to lightly coat each piece.
- Generously season the shrimp on both sides with salt, pepper and any other spices you like. Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper or garlic powder all work well.
Heat up the Grill
- Get your gas or charcoal grill heated to medium high heat. Clean the grates and brush with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- For gas grills, heat to around 400°F.
- For charcoal, let the coals get hot and covered with a light ash before grilling.
Skewer the Shrimp
- Thread 4-5 shrimp through each skewer, going through the center of each shrimp.
- Try alternating direction of heads and tails for a nice presentation.
- If using wooden skewers, be sure they were soaked 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Grill the Shrimp
- Place the skewers evenly over the hot grates.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and lightly charred.
- Use tongs to flip each skewer carefully without losing any shrimp.
Season and Serve
- Immediately after grilling, brush the shrimp with a bit of melted butter, olive oil or sauce if desired.
- Sprinkle with a bit of fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley or cilantro.
- Slide shrimp off the skewers onto a platter and serve while hot.
Grilled shrimp can be enjoyed on their own or paired with sides like rice, pasta or a salad. The smoky, savory shrimp also make excellent kebab fillings or taco toppings. Adjust the cook time slightly for larger or smaller shrimp. Do not overcook as shrimp can become rubbery. Just a few minutes over high heat is all it takes for irresistible barbecued shrimp every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilling Shrimp on a BBQ
What type of shrimp is best for grilling?
Go for raw jumbo shrimp in the shell with tails on. Larger shrimp hold up better on the grill. Peel and devein them yourself just before grilling.
Should I skewer the shrimp or grill them loose?
Skewering shrimp makes them easier to flip and handle on the grill without losing them between the grates. Just be sure to soak wooden skewers first.
What is the best way to season grilled shrimp?
Shrimp take well to almost any seasonings. Simple salt, pepper and olive oil work well. Spice it up with cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, garlic powder or your favorite blend.
How long should I grill shrimp?
Jumbo shrimp only need 2-3 minutes per side over direct medium-high heat. Be careful not to overcook them.
Can I grill frozen shrimp?
It’s best to thaw shrimp first by putting them in the refrigerator overnight. Grilling frozen shrimp rarely cooks them evenly.
Should I peel the shrimp before grilling?
Yes, peel and devein shrimp beforehand. The shells will burn over high heat and peel after cooking is difficult.
What sauce goes well with grilled shrimp?
Grilled shrimp pairs deliciously with lemon butter, chimichurri, tangy bbq sauce, teriyaki glaze, cocktail sauce or plain melted butter.
Conclusion
Grilling shrimp on the barbecue is one of the quickest and easiest ways to prepare them. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the shrimp, giving them a delicious charred flavor. Adjust the cook time slightly for larger or smaller shrimp. Just 2-3 minutes per side over direct heat is all you need for tender, juicy shrimp off the grill. Serve them on skewers or slid off over rice or greens. Grilled shrimp also shine in tacos, ceviche, kebabs or pasta dishes. Add your favorite seasonings and sauce, then enjoy this classic summer barbecue recipe.