Nothing captures the spirit of a summer cookout like a sizzling BBQ shrimp recipe. Smoky, savory, and just the right amount of spicy, grilled shrimp is a dish that’s surprisingly simple yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to spice up your next backyard barbecue, this recipe will deliver big on flavor and ease.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking methods, seasoning ideas, serving suggestions, and more. Let’s dive in and master this grilled shrimp favorite.
What Is BBQ Shrimp?
At its core, BBQ shrimp is a grilled or broiled shrimp dish infused with bold flavors—usually a combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy elements. Traditionally, this means marinating jumbo shrimp in a rich BBQ sauce or dry spice rub, then cooking quickly at high heat to preserve moisture and flavor.
This dish is a staple in Southern and coastal cuisines but has been adopted and adapted globally thanks to its irresistible flavor profile and simplicity.
Key Ingredients for the Best BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Fresh Shrimp
Quality shrimp are the foundation of any great BBQ shrimp recipe. Choose large, shell-on shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Deveining and cleaning them properly is crucial, though the shell helps retain moisture and flavor during grilling.
Tip: If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen varieties work too—just ensure they’re thawed and patted dry before marinating.
Essential Seasonings
- Garlic powder – Adds aromatic, umami depth
- Paprika – For smokiness and vibrant color
- Cayenne pepper – Brings the heat
- Salt and black pepper – For balance
- Optional herbs – Oregano, thyme, or parsley for complexity
BBQ Sauce or Marinade
Feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce — or whip up a homemade version if you’re feeling crafty. A homemade marinade offers more control over sweetness and spice.
Basic BBQ Sauce Ingredients:
- Ketchup
- Brown sugar
- Apple cider vinegar
- Worcestershire sauce
- Mustard
- Hot sauce (optional for extra heat)
Combine everything, then let the shrimp soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
How to Prepare BBQ Shrimp
Step 1: Clean and Devein
Remove shells if desired, though cooking with the shell on adds flavor. To devein the shrimp, just make a small cut along the back and gently pull out the dark vein with the tip of your knife or your fingers. Rinse and pat dry.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Place shrimp in a bowl or zip-top bag. Add your BBQ marinade or spice rub. Toss until evenly coated. Pop it in the fridge and let it marinate for 30 minutes — just enough time for the flavors to really soak in.
BBQ Shrimp Cooking Methods
Grilled BBQ Shrimp
Grilling imparts the best smoky flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375–400°F)
- Thread shrimp onto skewers to make handling easier
- Grill the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Baste with BBQ sauce during cooking for an extra layer of flavor
Broiled BBQ Shrimp
No grill? No problem.
- Preheat oven broiler on high
- Place shrimp on a foil-lined baking sheet
- Broil for 4–5 minutes, flipping once halfway
- Brush with more sauce just before serving
Serving the BBQ Shrimp Recipe
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve BBQ shrimp as an appetizer, main course, or even add them to tacos, rice bowls, or salads.
Popular Pairings:
- Grilled vegetables – Zucchini, peppers, corn, or asparagus
- Coleslaw – Adds a cool, crunchy contrast
- Garlic bread or rice – To soak up the delicious sauce
- Corn on the cob – A summertime classic
- Simple side salad – For a light, refreshing balance
Sauces and Dips for BBQ Shrimp
Enhance your dish with these dipping sauces:
- Garlic butter sauce – Rich and decadent
- Spicy mayo – Adds a creamy, tangy kick
- Lemon butter sauce – Light and zesty
- Ranch dressing – For a creamy, cooling contrast
Expert Tips for BBQ Shrimp Perfection
Don’t Overcook
Shrimp cook fast. Watch for them to turn pink and opaque—this usually takes just 2–3 minutes per side on a hot grill.
Customize the Flavor
- Add citrus zest or juice to your marinade for brightness
- Try different BBQ sauces – Honey BBQ, chipotle, mustard-based, etc.
- Use wood chips on your grill to introduce smokier notes
Variations of the BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Cajun BBQ Shrimp
Add Cajun seasoning for a bold, peppery twist. Serve with crusty bread for a New Orleans-style experience.
Asian-Inspired BBQ Shrimp
Add a splash of hoisin sauce, a little sesame oil, and just a dash of soy sauce for a rich, savory kick. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Spicy Garlic BBQ Shrimp
Mix BBQ sauce with extra garlic and chili flakes for added punch. Pair with cooling cucumber salad or tzatziki.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best seasoning for barbecue shrimp?
A classic combo? Garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt — perfectly balanced for bold, flavorful seasoning. Add lemon zest or fresh herbs for more complexity.
How long do you grill shrimp?
About 2–3 minutes per side. Shrimp cook quickly and are done when they’re opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Should you grill shrimp with shells on?
Leaving the shells on helps preserve moisture and adds flavor. However, shell-off shrimp absorb more of the marinade and are easier to eat.
What is New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
This is a stovetop dish where shrimp are cooked in a buttery, peppery sauce with garlic, Worcestershire, and lemon juice—rich and deeply flavorful.
BBQ Shrimp Recipe: Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge — they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- To reheat, warm the shrimp gently on the stove or in the oven. Skip the microwave — it can overcook them and turn them rubbery.
Freezing:
- You can freeze cooked shrimp if needed, just keep in mind the texture might be a bit different once thawed. For best quality, use within one month.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 180–220
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sodium: Varies depending on sauce used
Conclusion: A Grilled Seafood Favorite for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this bbq shrimp recipe is a guaranteed hit. With just a few simple ingredients and a hot grill, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and smoky goodness.
Feel free to experiment with marinades, sauces, and cooking methods to make the recipe your own. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both quick and restaurant-worthy.