BBQ Shrimp Recipe

Growing up in the Gulf Coast, BBQ shrimp was more than a meal. It was a family tradition that brought us together. My grandmother’s classic BBQ shrimp recipe was special. It turned simple ingredients into an amazing feast, capturing the essence of Southern coastal cooking.

This easy shrimp recipe is about making memories. In just 20 minutes, you can make a dish that feels like New Orleans. Whether you’re experienced or new to cooking, this BBQ shrimp recipe will be a favorite.

Key Takeaways

• Quick and easy BBQ shrimp recipe ready in 20 minutes
• Perfect for summer gatherings and family dinners
• Uses 2 pounds of extra-large shrimp
• Versatile recipe adaptable to different cooking styles
• Packed with rich, zesty flavors

Introduction to My BBQ Shrimp Recipe

Exploring barbecue shrimp is a journey that connects me to the Gulf Coast’s seafood traditions. This summer shrimp dish is more than a recipe. It’s a celebration of flavor and tradition.

Why I Love This Dish

Growing up near the coast, I’ve always loved fresh seafood. My barbecue shrimp recipe brings coastal cooking to life with bold flavors. It’s a simple dish that originated in New Orleans in 1953 at Pascal Manale’s restaurant, surprisingly not involving a traditional grill or barbecue sauce.

Seafood tells a story of place, and this recipe is my love letter to coastal cuisine.

What makes this recipe special are its key characteristics:

• Rich, buttery sauce that complements tender shrimp
• Quick 30-minute preparation time
• Versatile enough for casual and elegant dining

Perfect for Any Occasion

These barbecue shrimp are great for any event, from summer gatherings to quick weeknight dinners. The recipe uses 2-2.5 pounds of colossal shrimp, perfect for 2-4 people.

My love for this dish comes from its simplicity and amazing flavor. It turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal that feels like a trip to Louisiana.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making a great shrimp marinade starts with picking the right ingredients. My BBQ shrimp recipe needs careful ingredient selection for the best flavor and quality.

Fresh Shrimp Selection

For cajun shrimp, use large, high-quality shrimp. Choose extra-large shrimp with shells on for better moisture and flavor.

Essential Spices and Seasonings

A great cajun shrimp marinade needs a strong spice mix. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
• 5-10 fresh garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Add-Ins

Want to make your shrimp marinade even better? Try these exciting add-ins:

• Fresh rosemary for herbal notes
• Microbrewed beer for complex flavor
• Cayenne pepper for extra heat

“The secret to great BBQ shrimp is balancing spices and not being afraid to experiment!” – Professional Chef

The quality of your ingredients really matters. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best cajun shrimp taste.

Preparation Steps

Getting ready for delicious BBQ shrimp is all about choosing the right ingredients and using the right techniques. My easy shrimp recipes start with careful preparation. This ensures the best flavor and texture.

Cleaning the Shrimp

Cleaning shrimp properly is key. I suggest using fresh shrimp, but frozen shrimp works well too if thawed right. Here’s how I clean them:

• Rinse shrimp under cold water
• Remove shells and devein if needed
• Pat dry with paper towels
• Check for any remaining shell fragments

Marinating Magic

The marinade is where the magic happens. I’ve found a way to turn simple shrimp into a standout dish. My marinade is all about bold, matching flavors.

Pro tip: Marinate shrimp for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This step makes your shrimp recipes unforgettable.

“The secret to great BBQ shrimp is in the preparation and patience.” – Professional Chef’s Wisdom

Cooking Methods

Exploring different cooking techniques can transform your grilled shrimp experience. I’ve found many ways to prepare this tasty dish. Each method adds its own special flavor.

Grilling: The Outdoor Cooking Adventure

Shrimp is the star of outdoor grilling recipes. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that makes the dish even better. Here are my top tips for perfect grilled shrimp:

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat
• Use metal skewers or a grill basket to prevent losing smaller pieces
• Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink

Skillet Cooking: Quick and Flavorful

My favorite way to make BBQ shrimp is using a heavy-bottomed skillet. This method ensures maximum flavor and even cooking.

Baking: A Hands-Off Approach

Baking is a great option for those who like a hands-off cooking style. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the shrimp are bright pink.

“The secret to perfect shrimp is never overcooking – they should be tender, not rubbery!”

BBQ Sauce Options

BBQ sauce is key to great barbecue shrimp. I’ve perfected my sauce techniques over the years. Now, I’m excited to share my top BBQ sauce tips to boost your seafood barbecue.

Crafting the Perfect Homemade BBQ Sauce

My go-to seafood barbecue sauce has bold flavors that match the shrimp’s taste. Here’s what’s in it:

• Unsalted butter (1 ½ cups or 3 sticks)
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• Creole Cajun seasoning (2 tablespoons)
• Dry white wine (¼ cup)

Spice Level Customization

Homemade BBQ sauce is all about flexibility. Start with 1-3 dashes of hot sauce and adjust to your liking. My favorite recipe makes it easy to customize.

Store-Bought BBQ Sauce Recommendations

Not everyone has time to make sauce from scratch. I’ve tried many store-bought options that pair well with shrimp:

“The secret to great barbecue shrimp is in the sauce – it should dance on your palate!” – Chef’s Tip

Professional chefs know that a great sauce can turn simple seafood barbecue into a memorable dish. Whether homemade or store-bought, the goal is to find flavors that complement the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Mastering grilled shrimp cooking needs precision and focus. Timing and temperature are key for a great dish.

Cooking shrimp is delicate. It’s important to watch them closely. You want to cook them just right, without overdoing it.

Timing for Perfect Shrimp

• Total cooking time: 4-5 minutes
• First side grilling time: Approximately 2 minutes
• Second side grilling time: 2-3 minutes
• Visual cue: Shrimp turn pink with slightly opaque flesh

Ideal Temperature Settings

For the best grilled shrimp, keep the heat between 370-450 degrees Fahrenheit. Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate heat.

“The secret to perfect shrimp is watching them closely and removing them from heat the moment they turn pink.”

Easy shrimp recipes need quick cooking. Overcooking makes them tough. So, keep an eye on them and take them off the heat when they’re just right.

Serving Suggestions

Creating the perfect summer shrimp dishes is more than just cooking. It’s about making a meal you’ll never forget. When it comes to seafood barbecue, how you present and pair your food can make all the difference.

Perfect Side Dish Pairings

I’ve found some amazing side dishes that go great with BBQ shrimp. Here are my top picks:

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with chickpeas
• Caprese Spinach Arugula Salad
• Blackened Corn
• Traeger Asparagus with lemon
• Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creative Serving Ideas

For a stunning presentation, try these ideas:

1. Serve on a large rustic wooden platter
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro
3. Provide crusty French bread for sauce dipping
4. Offer multiple hot sauce options

“The secret to an amazing seafood barbecue is not just in the cooking, but in how you present and pair your dishes.” – Chef’s Tip

For small dinners, pick two side dishes that go well together. For big gatherings, aim for five categories: salad, vegetable, bread, starch, and another BBQ dish.

Storage Tips

Keeping your easy shrimp recipes fresh is key to enjoying every bite of your bbq shrimp. Proper storage helps you enjoy these tasty treats without losing flavor or quality.

Refrigerator Storage Techniques

After making your delicious bbq shrimp, follow these important storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container right after cooling
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Keep shrimp in the coldest part of your fridge
• Eat within 2 days for the best taste and safety

Reheating Your Leftover Shrimp

Reheating your shrimp needs care to avoid a rubbery texture. Try these methods:

1. Skillet method: Warm over low heat for 2-3 minutes
2. Oven method: Preheat to 400°F and heat for 10 minutes
3. Add a splash of butter or broth to keep it moist

“The key to great leftovers is treating them with the same care as the original meal.”

Pro tip: Avoid freezing your bbq shrimp, as it can significantly impact the texture and taste of the delicate seafood.

Variations of BBQ Shrimp

Exploring different flavors can make your basic barbecue shrimp recipe amazing. I’ve found two incredible variations that will take your cajun shrimp to the next level. They will keep your taste buds excited.

Spicy BBQ Shrimp Twist

If you love a kick of heat, this spicy cajun shrimp variation is for you. To add more flavor, try these ingredients:

• 1-3 tablespoons of Sriracha sauce
• 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes

“Spice is the variety of life, and these BBQ shrimp will prove it!” – My Cooking Motto

Garlic Butter BBQ Shrimp

For a rich, decadent version, try the garlic butter twist. Use fresh garlic and high-quality butter for the best taste.

• 3-4 minced garlic cloves
• ¾ cup softened butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

When cooking these variations, keep your grill hot and watch the shrimp closely. Cooking time remains approximately 2 minutes per side. This ensures your shrimp are tender and full of flavor.

Remember, these variations work best with U20 shrimp. They offer the perfect size and taste for your BBQ shrimp adventure!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking easy shrimp recipes can be tricky, even for experienced home chefs. I’ve learned through years of grilling that a few critical mistakes can turn your delicious shrimp dish into a disappointing meal.

Mastering grilled shrimp requires attention to detail and understanding of common pitfalls. Let me share some key mistakes to avoid during preparation.

The Perils of Overcooking

Overcooking is the number one enemy of tender shrimp. When grilled shrimp cook too long, they become rubbery in mere moments. Remember these critical tips:

• Shrimp cook extremely quickly – typically 2-3 minutes per side
• Watch for the “C” shape curl, which indicates perfect doneness
• An “O” shape means you’ve gone too far
• Use a digital instant-read thermometer to hit 120°F

Seasoning Shortcuts

Skimping on seasoning can lead to bland, uninspired easy shrimp recipes. Proper seasoning elevates the entire dish.

“Seasoning is the difference between a good dish and a great one.” – Culinary Wisdom

By avoiding these common errors, you’ll transform your grilled shrimp from ordinary to extraordinary. Practice makes perfect!

Health Benefits of Shrimp

Summer shrimp dishes are not just tasty but also very healthy. As someone who loves seafood barbecue, I’ve found shrimp to be incredibly beneficial. It’s a key protein for a balanced diet.

Nutritional Powerhouse

Here’s why shrimp is a nutritional superstar:

• Low in calories (84 calories per 3-ounce serving)
• High in protein (20 grams per serving)
• Zero carbohydrates
• Rich in essential minerals like zinc and selenium

Why Shrimp Belongs in My Diet

I add shrimp to my meals for good reasons. The FDA suggests eating two to three 4-ounce servings a week. This matches my health goals perfectly.

Shrimp’s omega-3 fatty acids help the heart, possibly lowering heart disease risks. It’s also a great source of lean protein for muscle health.

“Shrimp is one of the most nutritionally dense seafood options available” – Nutrition Experts

For those trying to lose weight, shrimp is a great choice. It has only 15 fewer calories than chicken per serving. It’s a tasty protein option without losing nutritional value.

Conclusion

My BBQ shrimp recipe is more than just a dish. It’s a celebration of flavor and technique. From choosing 21-25 count shrimp to the precise cooking method, it’s a perfect mix of simplicity and sophistication. It’s great as an appetizer for 4 or a main course for 2, making your dining experience unforgettable.

My Final Thoughts on BBQ Shrimp

I’ve shared every detail of this BBQ shrimp recipe to help you make it in your kitchen. The dish’s rich history, starting at Pascal’s Manale restaurant in 1955, adds to its flavor. With just 1.5 pounds of shrimp and some special spices, you can make a meal that will wow everyone.

Encouragement to Try This Recipe

Cooking is about adventure and personal expression. This BBQ shrimp recipe is your invitation to explore and enjoy. Don’t worry about the detailed steps. They’re there to help you make something delicious. So, fire up your grill, preheat your oven, or heat that skillet. Your BBQ shrimp journey begins now!