Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delicious and simple dish that’s perfect for any seafood lover. The combination of garlic, butter, and juicy shrimp creates a mouthwatering flavor that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re having a summer cookout or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. Second, it offers a delightful flavor thanks to the garlic and butter, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Finally, it’s great for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings. Plus, grilling gives the shrimp a nice smoky flavor that nobody can resist.
How to Make Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 shallot (minced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 lemons (halved)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Directions
- Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers and season with salt and pepper. Brush with 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Add the skewers to the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place the lemons on the grill, cut side down.
- Serve immediately, drizzled with the remaining butter mixture, and garnish with grilled lemons and parsley if desired.
How to Serve Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp can be served as an appetizer or main course. For a complete meal, pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also provide extra lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
How to Store Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
If you have leftovers, allow the grilled shrimp to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
- For more flavor, marinate the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning on the grill.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and should be removed from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Try adding some lime juice for extra tang or mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling.
Q: Can I make this dish without a grill?
A: Absolutely! You can cook the shrimp in a skillet or on a stovetop grill pan. Just follow the same directions.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
A: Shrimp are done when they turn from gray to pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
For the garlic butter mixture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Melted
- 1 medium shallot (minced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Or more, to taste
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste
For the shrimp and garnish
- 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 lemons (halved) For grilling and serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers and season with salt and pepper. Brush with 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Cooking
- Add the skewers to the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place the lemons on the grill, cut side down.
Serving
- Serve immediately, drizzled with the remaining butter mixture, and garnish with grilled lemons and parsley if desired.
