15 Best Grilled Shrimp Recipes

Are you looking for new and exciting ways to cook shrimp on the grill? Look no further!

Grilled Shrimp is a perfect summer staple on the grill; especially on skewers! Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight or trying to eat healthier.

Plus, grilling shrimp adds a smoky and charred flavor that is hard to resist. If you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next dinner party, We have compiled a list of the 15 best grilled shrimp recipes.

From simple and classic recipes to more complex and flavorful options, there is something for everyone on this list.

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp is a delicious and healthy meal that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or a romantic date night, grilled shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser.

To make the best grilled shrimp, you need to start with the right ingredients. In this section, we’ll discuss the essential ingredients you need to make the best grilled shrimp.

1- Best Shrimp Varieties

The first step in making the best grilled shrimp is to choose the right shrimp. There are many different varieties of shrimp available, but not all of them are suitable for grilling. The best shrimp for grilling are large, firm, and have a sweet flavor. Some of the best varieties of shrimp for grilling include:

Jumbo Tiger Shrimp: These large, meaty shrimp are perfect for grilling. Grilled tiger shrimp are sweet and succulent, with a firm texture that holds up well on the grill.
Gulf Shrimp: Gulf shrimp are another great option for grilling. They are sweet and tender, with a delicate flavor that pairs well with a variety of marinades and seasonings.
Black Tiger Shrimp: Black tiger shrimp are a unique variety of shrimp that are prized for their large size and bold flavor. They have a firm texture that makes them perfect for grilling.

2- Marinades and Flavors

The key to making delicious grilled shrimp is to use a flavorful marinade. A good marinade will infuse the shrimp with flavor and help keep them moist and tender on the grill. Some of the best flavors for grilled shrimp include:

Lemon and Garlic: Lemon and garlic are classic flavors that pair well with grilled shrimp. A simple marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil is all you need to make delicious grilled shrimp.
Cajun: Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend of herbs and spices that adds a bold flavor to grilled shrimp. To make a Cajun marinade, mix Cajun seasoning, olive oil, and a splash of hot sauce.
Teriyaki: Teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savory sauce that is perfect for grilled shrimp. To make a teriyaki marinade, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.

3- Grilling Essentials

In addition to the right shrimp and a flavorful marinade, there are a few grilling essentials you’ll need to make the best grilled shrimp. These include:

Skewers: Skewers are essential for grilling shrimp. They help keep the shrimp in place on the grill and make it easier to flip them over. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Oil: Oil is important for preventing the shrimp from sticking to the grill. Be sure to brush your grill grates with oil before grilling the shrimp.
Tongs: Tongs are essential for flipping the shrimp over on the grill. Be sure to use long-handled tongs to prevent burning your hands.

Top 15 Grilled Shrimp Recipes

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy meal, grilled shrimp is a great option. Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it a perfect choice for those who want to eat healthily.

Grilling shrimp is also a great way to add some smoky flavor to this delicious seafood. Here are the top 15 grilled shrimp recipes that you can try at home.

1- Classic Garlic Grilled Shrimp

This recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, easy, and delicious. All you need is some olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Mix all the ingredients and marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve.

2- Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

If you like your food with a kick, this recipe is for you. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side.

3- Grilled Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Vegetables

This recipe is all about the buttery goodness. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemon juice, and butter. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a sprinkle of parsley.

4- Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe is no exception. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and lime juice.

Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with your favorite taco toppings.

5- Mediterranean Shrimp Kabobs

This recipe is full of fresh Mediterranean flavors. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and parsley. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of hummus.

6- Sweet and Sour Grilled Shrimp

This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and sour. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

7- Cajun Grilled Shrimp

This recipe is all about the spices. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and olive oil. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of rice.

8- Grilled H erb-Infused Shrimp

This recipe is all about the herbs. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, parsley, and thyme. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

9- Tropical Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

This recipe is all about the tropical flavors. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of pineapple juice, lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of rice.

10- Smokey BBQ Shrimp

This recipe is all about the BBQ sauce. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of BBQ sauce, garlic, and olive oil. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of coleslaw.

11- Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp

This recipe is full of Asian flavors. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of steamed rice.

12- Citrus Grilled Shrimp Salad

This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, and olive oil. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve over a bed of mixed greens.

13- Grilled Shrimp with Aioli

This recipe is all about the creamy aioli sauce. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of aioli sauce.

14- Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

This recipe is all about the bacon. The shrimp is wrapped in bacon and then grilled for 2-3 minutes on each side. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

15- Grilled Shrimp Cocktail

This recipe is perfect for a summer party. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side and serve with a side of cocktail sauce.

Cooking Techniques and Tips For Shrimps

1- Grilling Temperatures and Times

Grilling shrimp is a quick and easy way to cook them, but it’s important to get the temperature and timing right. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, while undercooked shrimp can be unsafe to eat.

A good rule of thumb is to grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque.

To ensure even cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). If your grill is too hot, the shrimp may cook too quickly on the outside and remain raw on the inside. If it’s not hot enough, the shrimp may take too long to cook and become dry.

2- Skewering Shrimp for Grilling

One of the best ways to grill shrimp is to skewer them. This makes them easier to handle and flip, and it also helps prevent them from falling through the grates.

When skewering shrimp, be sure to use metal or soaked wooden skewers. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

To skewer the shrimp, thread them onto the skewer lengthwise, piercing them through the head and tail. This will help keep them straight and prevent them from curling up when they cook. Leave a little bit of space between each shrimp to ensure even cooking.

3- Avoiding Common Mistakes

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when grilling shrimp.

First, don’t over-marinate the shrimp. Shrimp are delicate and can become mushy if they marinate for too long. A good rule of thumb is to marinate them for no more than 30 minutes before grilling.

Second, don’t overcook the shrimp. As mentioned earlier, overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Be sure to keep an eye on them and remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Finally, don’t overcrowd the grill. If you put too many shrimp on the grill at once, they may not cook evenly. Leave some space between each shrimp to ensure they cook properly.

Grilled Shrimps Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Grilled shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a salad topping. When it comes to pairing grilled shrimp with side dishes, drinks, and dipping sauces, there are endless options to choose from. Here are some suggestions to help you elevate your grilled shrimp game:

Side Dishes

Grilled shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, from simple salads to more complex dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Grilled vegetables: Grilled shrimp and vegetables are a match made in heaven. Try grilling some asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers to serve alongside your shrimp.
Rice or quinoa: Grilled shrimp goes well with a side of rice or quinoa. You can add some herbs or spices to the rice or quinoa to give it some extra flavor.
Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw can be a great side dish for grilled shrimp. You can make a classic coleslaw or try a variation with different vegetables or dressings.
Corn on the cob: Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with grilled shrimp. You can brush the corn with some butter and herbs for extra flavor.

Beverage Pairings

Pairing beverages with grilled shrimp can enhance the flavors of both the food and drink. Here are some suggestions for wine and beverage pairings:

Pineapple Ginger Sparkler Mocktail: The tropical sweetness of pineapple combined with the zing of ginger and a splash of soda is an excellent match for grilled shrimp.
Rosé: A dry rosé can be a great pairing for grilled shrimp. The light and refreshing taste of the wine can balance out the richness of the shrimp.
Coconut Lime Cooler Mocktail: A blend of coconut water, lime juice, and a hint of agave syrup offers a tropical and tangy mocktail to accompany the grilled shrimp.

Grilled Shrimp Dipping Sauces and Condiments

Dipping sauces and condiments can add extra flavor and texture to grilled shrimp. Here are some ideas for dipping sauces and condiments:

Garlic butter: Melt some butter and mix it with minced garlic and herbs for a simple yet delicious dipping sauce.
Cocktail sauce: A classic cocktail sauce made with ketchup, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce can be a great dipping sauce for grilled shrimp.
Aioli: A garlic aioli made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and salt can add a creamy and tangy flavor to grilled shrimp.

Emma

I am a writer, editor, and publisher of Grillcuisines.com – an online blog dedicated to sharing grilling tips, accessories, and recipes to encourage more people to get outside and grill.

I’m off to find out the different types of grill foods, their seasons, and how to conduct outdoor cooking properly. I’ll also show you some of my grill-worthy cooking tools & accessories!