Barbecuing shrimp is a delicious way to prepare this seafood favorite. When done right, bbq shrimp turns out juicy, smoky and packed with flavor. However, getting the cook time just right can require a bit of skill. Undercook the shrimp and they’ll be rubbery and raw tasting. Overcook them and the shrimp will be dry and chewy. So how long should you barbecue shrimp to achieve perfection? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Shrimp on the BBQ?
The exact time needed to barbecue shrimp depends on several factors:
Size of the Shrimp
- Extra-large (16-20 per pound): 5 to 7 minutes
- Large (21-25 per pound): 4 to 6 minutes
- Medium (26-30 per pound): 3 to 5 minutes
- Small (36-45 per pound): 2 to 4 minutes
Larger shrimp require more time over the hot grill to cook through without drying out. Smaller shrimp cook faster, so they need less time to reach the ideal doneness.
Thickness of the Shrimp
Shrimp can vary in thickness, with some jumbo varieties having a thicker meatier texture. Thicker shrimp will take a little longer to cook than very thin, petite shrimp. Check for visual cues like the exterior color and opacity when determining doneness instead of just relying on cook time.
Method of Cooking
- Direct grilling: Cooking shrimp directly over the heat source will be faster. BBQing shrimp this way will take 2-7 minutes depending on size.
- Indirect grilling: Positioning the shrimp away from direct heat extends the cook time. BBQ shrimp indirectly for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Skewers: Threading shrimp on skewers can lengthen the time needed as it takes longer for heat to penetrate multiple layers. Allow 10-15 minutes for grilled shrimp skewers.
Temperature of the Grill
- High heat (500°F+): 2 to 5 minutes
- Medium heat (400°F): 3 to 6 minutes
- Low heat (300°F): 5 to 10 minutes
Grilling shrimp over high heat significantly shortens the cooking time. Lower temp grilling takes longer but can help prevent burning. Use a grill thermometer to monitor the actual temperature.
Desired Doneness
The longer shrimp cooks, the firmer the texture becomes as moisture evaporates. For tender, juicy results avoid overcooking.
- Translucent, partially raw: 1 to 2 minutes
- Medium rare: 2 to 3 minutes
- Medium: 3 to 4 minutes
- Well done: 5+ minutes
To maximize juiciness, medium or medium rare doneness is ideal. Cook longer only if you prefer a firmer, opaque texture.
How to Tell When Shrimp is Done on the BBQ
Visual and textural signs indicate when shrimp reaches optimal doneness while barbecuing:
- The exterior turns pink/orange with char marks from grilling. Translucent grayish interiors signal underdone shrimp.
- The outer shell becomes bright pinkish-orange.
- The flesh becomes opaque and firm enough to not appear translucent.
- The shrimp flesh feels firm yet still tender when pressed.
- When pierced with a fork, clear juices may run out, signaling moistness.
- The shrimp curls into a tight C shape when fully cooked.
Use tongs to occasionally test and probe shrimp for doneness cues while grilling. Ideal texture is tender and juicy without signs of mushiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to over or undercook shrimp on the barbecue if you aren’t careful. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
Undercooking
Barbecuing shrimp for too short of a time can lead to shrimp that are:
- Gummy, chewy, tough in texture
- Translucent appearance
- Raw seafood flavor
To avoid undercooked shrimp, use a higher heat, flip frequently, and monitor sizes. Cut into the thickest part to check for opacity and cook until fully firm.
Overcooking
It’s just as easy to accidentally overcook shrimp on the grill, resulting in:
- Tough, rubbery, chewy texture
- Dry, flaky texture
- Loss of plumpness and juices
To prevent overdone shrimp, stay observant of visual cues, test doneness early, and remove from heat as soon as the ideal texture is reached.
Uneven Cooking
If shrimp isn’t flipped frequently, it’s easy to end up with unevenly cooked pieces. Signs of uneven cooking include:
- Inconsistent opacity and color
- Raw looking interiors
- Burnt exteriors
Avoid this by flipping shrimp every minute or so and moving them to cooler or hotter spots on the grill as needed.
Sticking and Tearing
Shrimp can easily stick and tear when grilling if not handled properly. To avoid this:
- Use a non-stick vegetable spray on the grill
- Handle shrimp gently with tongs or spatulas
- Allow shrimp to release from the grill before flipping
Take care not to forcefully flip or move shrimp before it naturally releases to prevent ripping.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Shrimp
Follow these helpful tips for flawlessly barbecued shrimp every time:
- Dry shrimp thoroughly and pat off excess moisture before grilling to cut down on cook time and sticking. Wet shrimp takes longer to cook.
- Use wooden skewers when making shrimp skewers so they don’t overcook from the metal conducting too much heat.
- Brush a light coating of oil on the shrimp to keep moisturized while grilling without causing flair ups.
- Season just before grilling or the salt will draw out moisture – 10-15 minutes before is ideal.
- Preheat grill thoroughly to ensure even, consistent heat distribution.
- Go for direct heat to get the quickest cook time and caramelization.
- Flip frequently to prevent burning. Shrimp cooks fast so check often.
- Brush with sauce at the end to avoid charring or burning from the sugars.
- Allow a brief rest before serving for juiciest texture.
Following these simple tricks will help you achieve perfectly barbecued shrimp hot off the grill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about how long to barbecue shrimp? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions:
How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
- Clean and oil the grill grates before cooking.
- Dry shrimp thoroughly and coat lightly in oil.
- Handle shrimp gently using tongs or spatulas.
- Allow shrimp to release from the grill before flipping.
Can I barbecue frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be grilled but must be thawed completely first. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. Cooking times will be slightly extended.
Should I peel the shrimp before grilling?
Unless planning to eat the shells, it’s best to peel and clean the shrimp beforehand. The shells help retain moisture so grill peeled shrimp quickly.
Is it safe to eat undercooked grilled shrimp?
For food safety, shrimp should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. Undercooked shrimp can pose a health risk and result in unpleasant texture.
How do I know if my grill is hot enough for shrimp?
Use a grill thermometer to assess the temperature. Allow the grill to preheat for 10-15 minutes on high heat until reaching 500°F. Adjust heat down if needed to prevent burning.
What seasonings go well with grilled shrimp?
Lemon, garlic, paprika, cajun seasoning, chili powder, pepper, thyme, oregano, and parsley all pair deliciously with shrimp off the barbecue.
Grilling Shrimp to Perfection
Grilling shrimp may seem quick and easy, but achieving the ideal juicy texture and flavor requires finesse. Now that you know about factors like size, temperature, and doneness, you can confidently barbecue shrimp right every time. Mastering the technique allows you to enjoy succulent, perfectly charred shrimp that impresses any crowd. Whether making kebabs, tacos, or serving shrimp over pasta, apply these tips for mouthwatering barbecued shrimp done just right.