This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy. This super easy grilled shrimp recipe with garlic butter is a family favorite and perfect for busy weeknights!
Grilled Shrimp Recipe
Let’s face it–some nights, getting dinner on the table that pleases everyone feels impossible. But these simple grilled shrimp skewers with garlic butter? It’s my secret weapon! This recipe is a lifesaver for any night of the week, and it’s so versatile with no need to make a marinade. You can also cook them on a skillet or in an air fryer (instructions included)! Serve it with grilled steak for an easy surf and turf dinner or make it a summer meal by pairing the shrimp with your favorite side dishes like coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, macaroni salad, or Greek orzo salad. And if you love grilled shrimp skewers, be sure to try my Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp Skewers and BBQ Shrimp.
This Grilled Shrimp Recipe is My Summer Go-To
Some nights, serving a dinner that everyone enjoys can be challenging. But this healthy grilled shrimp with garlic butter is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights! High in protein, quick and easy to make, and suitable for various dietary restrictions like low-carb, gluten-free, and Weight Watchers-friendly. Plus, it can easily be made dairy-free!
Grilled Shrimp Ingredients
This simple grilled shrimp recipe requires mostly kitchen staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp
- Salt and Pepper
- Butter
- Garlic
- Sweet Paprika
- Garnishes: Fresh parsley and lemon wedges
How to Grill Shrimp
You can prep these shrimp skewers earlier in the day, so when dinnertime rolls around, you can get your meal on the table in less than 15 minutes. Here’s how:
- Make paprika garlic butter.
- Place shrimp on skewers and preheat the grill.
- Grill shrimp until opaque and cooked through, then brush with garlic butter.
For the full instructions, see the recipe card below.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp
- Start with fresh or properly thawed shrimp
- Use jumbo or colossal shrimp
- Consider buying pre-cleaned and deveined shrimp to save time
- Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling
- Cook shrimp on high heat for a short time
- Keep an eye on the shrimp to prevent overcooking
- Clean grill grates before cooking
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Here are some ways to spice up your grilled shrimp:
- Make a dry rub with spices
- Add Old Bay seasoning or dried herbs to the garlic butter
- Try different sauces like pesto or Korean gochujang glaze
If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the shrimp in an air fryer or on the stovetop. Serve the shrimp with your favorite side dishes like salads, tacos, or grains.
Storage and FAQ
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When cooking shrimp, use a combination of oil and butter for the best flavor. Grilling shrimp is quick–they are typically done in under 5 minutes! For more grilled shrimp recipes, check out some of my favorites linked in the post above.