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Craving a grilled shrimp recipe that’s bursting with flavor? You’ve come to the right place! These smoky BBQ shrimp are tender, juicy, and packed with a perfectly balanced mix of seasonings.
A bold, tangy glaze made from an easy shrimp marinade soaks into every bite, while the grill brings out that irresistible caramelized finish.
Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout or need a quick, flavorful meal like shrimp tacos BBQ style, this dish delivers every time.
And the best part? You can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes with hardly any effort! Each bite offers a mouthwatering mix of smokiness, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of garlic.
Enjoy them as a flavorful appetizer, tuck them into tacos, or add them to a fresh salad. Serve them any way you like—they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Shrimp Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s fast, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, this BBQ shrimp recipe checks every box. It combines juicy, tender shrimp with a bold, easy shrimp marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill or in a hot skillet—just what you want in a grilled shrimp recipe.
Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and weekend cookouts. Whether you’re serving it in shrimp tacos BBQ style, tossing it on a salad, or plating it as an appetizer, this recipe delivers smoky BBQ shrimp with restaurant-quality flavor and minimal effort.
1. Incredibly Quick & Easy BBQ Shrimp Recipe (Under 30 Minutes!)
If you’re short on time but still want a restaurant-quality dish, this is the recipe to keep in your back pocket. Shrimp cooks in no time, and with this no-fail marinade, you’re just a few simple steps away from something delicious:
- Whisk together a flavor-packed BBQ sauce
- Toss the shrimp in it for a quick marinade
- Throw them on the grill—or sear in a hot pan—for just 2 to 3 minutes per side.
That’s it! Dinner is served in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for hectic weeknights, spontaneous BBQs, or those days when you want big flavor without the long kitchen time.
2. BBQ Shrimp Recipe with Bold, Smoky Flavor & Caramelized Finish
The secret to mind-blowingly delicious BBQ shrimp? It’s all about:
- A delicious blend of sweet, smoky, and tangy notes in every bite.
- A BBQ sauce that clings to every shrimp, creating that sticky, caramelized goodness
- The grill’s high heat,which chars the edges just enough to bring out a deep, smoky taste
Even if you don’t have a grill, you can still achieve this flavor magic using a cast-iron skillet or broiler. The sauce thickens as it cooks, forming a glaze that makes every bite lick-your-fingers good.
3. Juicy & Perfectly Cooked Every Time
If you’ve ever had rubbery, overcooked shrimp, you know how disappointing it can be. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a few key tricks:
✔ Choose jumbo or large shrimp. They grill beautifully, hold their shape, and stay moist and flavorful.
✔ Watch the clock. Shrimp cook incredibly quickly, so keep a close eye and take them off the heat as soon as they’re opaque and firm. Just a few minutes is all it takes to get them perfectly cooked and flavorful!
✔ Marinate just long enough—15–30 minutes is perfect for flavor without making the shrimp mushy.
Stick with these easy tips, and your shrimp will turn out irresistibly juicy, tender, and loaded with bold, smoky BBQ flavor every single time.
4. Totally Versatile BBQ Shrimp Recipe—Serve It However You Like
This BBQ shrimp recipe is incredibly flexible—there are tons of delicious ways to serve it up:
- Serve them right off the skewer for a fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Piled into warm tortillas for BBQ shrimp tacos
- Tossed into a fresh summer salad
- Served over rice or quinoa for a healthy, satisfying meal
- Pile them into a toasted wrap or sandwich for a quick, flavor-filled lunch option.
Want to change up the flavors? Try:
- Adding honey or brown sugar for a sweeter BBQ sauce
- Throwing in cayenne or hot sauce for an extra spicy kick
- Squeezing fresh lime over the shrimp for a citrusy finish
5. BBQ Shrimp Recipe That’s Perfect for Meal Prep & Make-Ahead Dinners
If you love meal prepping, this recipe is a dream. You can:
- Let the shrimp soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes—or prep ahead and refrigerate for a few hours to deepen the flavor.
- Store cooked shrimp for easy meals throughout the week
- Freeze leftovers for a quick protein option anytime
Mix these BBQ shrimp into tacos, pasta, salads, or grain bowls for a quick, tasty meal that’s ready when you are.
Ingredients
The secret to a truly unforgettable BBQ shrimp recipe? It all starts with the right ingredients. From the marinade to the seasoning, every element helps build those bold, smoky flavors.
Whether you’re making a grilled shrimp recipe for taco night or prepping for a summer cookout, these ingredients ensure your shrimp turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized.
Let’s break down each item—why it’s important, and how to tweak it to match your taste. This mix works great whether you’re going for shrimp tacos BBQ style or simply want an easy shrimp marinade for quick meals!
Meet the Star of This BBQ Shrimp Recipe – The Shrimp Itself
The Star of the Show: Shrimp
Large or Jumbo Shrimp (Peeled & Deveined, Tails On or Off)
The bigger the shrimp, the juicier and more flavorful they’ll be! Look for 16-20 count per pound of shrimp, which are large enough to stay plump and tender while grilling.
✅ Why It Matters: Larger shrimp hold up better to the heat, absorb more marinade, and develop that perfect caramelized crust.
✅ Buying Tip: Fresh shrimp are ideal, but if you’re using frozen, just place them in a bowl of cold water for 10–15 minutes to thaw quickly. Pat them completely dry before marinating!
✅ Shell On vs. Off: If you’re grilling, shell-on shrimp protect the meat from drying out and add extra flavor. For easy eating, go for peeled shrimp with tails on.
👉 Pro Tip: Using pre-cooked shrimp? Skip marinating—just heat them gently with BBQ sauce right before serving. Overcooking pre-cooked shrimp makes them rubbery!
The Flavor-Packed Marinade & Sauce That Makes This BBQ Shrimp Recipe Irresistible
This BBQ shrimp marinade is where all the magic happens. It’s smoky, slightly sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy—everything you want in a perfect BBQ glaze.
The Base (Fat & Liquid Ingredients for Flavor & Moisture)
Olive Oil helps coat the shrimp evenly, keeps them juicy, and stops sticking whether you’re using a grill or pan.
Soy sauce or Worcestershire adds a deep umami kick and balances out the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a slightly salty, teriyaki-style BBQ twist.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Brings that classic tangy-sweet, smoky BBQ depth.
👉 Gluten-Free Tip: You can swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Smoky BBQ Shrimp with Sweet & Tangy Glaze
- 🍯 Brown sugar or honey – The secret to caramelized, sticky BBQ shrimp!
- 🍬 These natural sweeteners help create a thick, beautiful glaze that sticks to the shrimp and gives it that mouthwatering char on the grill.
- 🍎 Apple cider vinegar – A must-have for that tangy BBQ punch that cuts through the sweetness and brings the whole dish to life!
The Bold & Smoky BBQ Shrimp Spices
- 🌶️ Smoked paprika – A total game-changer! Adds smoky BBQ flavor without needing a smoker.
- 🌶️ Chili powder – Adds mild heat and earthy depth that brings balance to the BBQ spices.
- 🧄 Garlic (minced or powdered) – Infuses the shrimp with rich, savory goodness.
The Secret Ingredients That Elevate the Flavor
- 🥄 Dijon Mustard – Helps the marinade cling to each shrimp, ensuring bold, even flavor in every bite.
- 🌶️ Hot Sauce (Optional, but highly recommended) – A dash of Sriracha, Tabasco, or Frank’s RedHot adds a gentle heat that lingers on your palate.
- 🧂 Not into spice? – Skip the hot sauce and use black pepper for a milder warmth.
For Serving & Garnishing (The Final Flavor Boosts!)
The right toppings and sides take BBQ shrimp from delicious to next-level amazing. Here’s how to finish it off:
- 🍋 Fresh Lemon or Lime Wedges – A burst of citrus adds a zesty contrast that cuts through the smoky, savory flavor.
Lemon brings a sharp, traditional tang, while lime offers a fresh, tropical brightness that takes the flavor up a notch. - 🌿 Chopped Fresh Cilantro or Parsley – Adds a burst of fresh, herby contrast.
Don’t like cilantro? Go for chives, green onions, or even fresh basil. - 🌽 Optional Sides: Grilled corn, creamy avocado, or a crisp slaw make excellent sides.
They pair beautifully with BBQ shrimp—especially when served in tacos, bowls, or sandwiches.
BBQ Shrimp Your Way: Ingredient Swaps & Easy Twists
Want to mix it up? Here are some fun ways to tweak this recipe based on your cravings:
🔥 Make It Spicier: Add extra cayenne, jalapeño powder, or chipotle chili powder for a bolder kick.
🍍 Hawaiian-Inspired BBQ Shrimp: Mix in a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade for a juicy, tropical flavor boost.
🥢 Asian BBQ Shrimp: Swap Worcestershire for hoisin sauce and add grated ginger for a teriyaki-inspired variation.
🍯 Sweet & Smoky Version: Use honey instead of sugar and double the smoked paprika for a deeper, richer flavor.
👉 Note: The full ingredient list with exact measurements is right below in the recipe card so you can follow along easily!
How to Make the Best BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Creating juicy, smoky BBQ shrimp is simple — but with a few expert tips, you can take the flavor and texture to the next level.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors, using a stovetop pan, or even baking, these steps will guarantee mouthwatering shrimp every time.
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Let’s make sure your shrimp are ready to absorb maximum flavor before diving into the recipe!
🔁 Using frozen shrimp?
1️⃣ Thaw them in a bowl of cold water for 10–15 minutes.
2️⃣ Once thawed, dry them thoroughly with paper towels—this helps the marinade stick better.
🦐 Peel & Devein (if needed):
- Remove the shells, but feel free to leave the tails on—they look great and add a little extra flavor while cooking.
💨 Dry again for best results:
- Moisture is the enemy of flavor! Pat your shrimp completely dry again before seasoning to make sure the marinade clings well.
👉 Pro Tip:
Butterfly the shrimp by slicing a small slit along the back. This little move helps them soak up even more BBQ sauce goodness!
🥄 Step 2: Make the BBQ Marinade
🧪 The key to bold BBQ shrimp?
It’s all about balancing smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors!
✨ Ready to mix up the perfect marinade?
Just follow these simple steps ⬇️
🥣 In a Large Bowl, Whisk Together:
- 🫒 ¼ cup olive oil – Helps the marinade coat evenly and prevents sticking.
- 🧄 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds bold, aromatic flavor and boosts the dish’s savory depth.
- 🍯 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey – Brings sweetness and helps caramelize the shrimp.
- 🍎 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy kick that makes BBQ flavors pop!
- 🌶️ 2 tsp smoked paprika – For a bold, smoky flavor with a mild, earthy heat.
- 🔥 1 tsp chili powder – Adds warmth to the marinade.
- 🍜 1 tbsp Worcestershire or soy sauce – Delivers that deep umami richness.
- 🥄 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify and bind all the flavors together.
- 🧂 ½ tsp black pepper + ½ tsp salt – Essential seasonings for balance.
- 🌶️ 1–2 tsp hot sauce (optional) – Add if you want a spicy kick!
👉 Pro Tip:
Let the marinade sit for 5 minutes before adding the shrimp.
This helps the flavors meld together and makes the marinade even more delicious!
Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp
Time to let those shrimp absorb all the bold, delicious flavors of the marinade!
1️⃣ Add the shrimp to the marinade and stir gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
2️⃣ Marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
3️⃣ Don’t over-marinate! The acidity in the marinade (vinegar & Worcestershire) can start to “cook” the shrimp, making them mushy if left too long.
👉 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, reserve ¼ cup of the marinade before adding the shrimp—this will be used for brushing on while cooking!
Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method
BBQ shrimp is super versatile—whether you have a grill, a stovetop pan, or even an oven, you can still achieve juicy, caramelized shrimp. Here’s how:
🔥 Option 1: Grill Them—ideal for that irresistible smoky flavor!
If you want restaurant-style BBQ shrimp with a smoky char, grilling is the way to go.
1️⃣ Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Using a charcoal grill? Be sure the coals are evenly ashed over and glowing red to ensure steady heat and optimal flavor when grilling.
2️⃣ Thread the shrimp onto skewers to make flipping easier.
- Metal skewers: No soaking needed.
- Wooden skewers: Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill.
3️⃣ Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with extra marinade as they cook.
4️⃣ Take the shrimp off the grill once they’re pink, opaque, and have slight char marks.
👉 Pro Tip: Overcooked shrimp = rubbery texture! Remove them as soon as they curl into a “C” shape—if they form an “O” shape, they’re overdone!
🔥 Option 2: Stovetop (For a Quick & Easy Meal!)
No grill? No problem! BBQ shrimp can be cooked up in just minutes using a skillet or grill pan—perfect for indoor cooking!
1️⃣Preheat a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2️⃣ Add 1 tbsp olive oil and let it heat up.
3️⃣ Spread the shrimp in a single layer, leaving space between each one so they cook evenly and get that golden sear.
4️⃣ Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing on reserved marinade.
5️⃣ Remove immediately when pink and opaque.
👉 Pro Tip: If cooking multiple batches, wipe the pan between rounds so the marinade doesn’t burn.
🔥 Option 3: Oven-Baked (Great for Large Batches!)
Baking is a great option when you’re cooking for a crowd—it’s simple, hands-off, and lets you prep everything at once.
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2️⃣ Cover a baking sheet with foil and give it a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ Spread the shrimp in a single layer (do not overlap).
4️⃣ Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
5️⃣ Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes to add a touch of char and extra flavor.
👉 Pro Tip: Add sliced pineapple or bell peppers to the sheet pan for extra BBQ-style sweetness!
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Once your shrimp are perfectly cooked—grilled, seared, or baked—it’s time to dish them up and savor all that bold, smoky flavor! Here are some delicious serving ideas:
🌮 Taco Night: Stuff shrimp into warm tortillas with slaw & avocado.
🥗 Fresh Salad: Toss them on a crisp summer salad.
🍚 Rice Bowl: Serve over jasmine rice with grilled veggies.
🍞 Garlic Bread: Make shrimp po’boys with toasted hoagie rolls!
🔥 BBQ Feast: Pair with cornbread, coleslaw, and baked beans.
👉 Final Tip: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy the shrimp immediately after cooking. If reheating, do it gently on the stove—avoid the microwave to keep them tender, not rubbery.
Pro Tips for Making the Best BBQ Shrimp
- 🎯 Want to go from tasty to unforgettable BBQ shrimp?
- ✅ These expert tips work whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors—perfect flavor, every time.
1. Choose Large or Jumbo Shrimp for Maximum Juiciness
Size really does matter when it comes to shrimp. Larger shrimp (think 16–20 count per pound) are less likely to overcook, hold onto the marinade better, and give you that perfect plump bite with just the right amount of char.
👉 Bonus: They’re easier to thread onto skewers, flip, and serve—plus they look impressive on the plate!
2. Dry the Shrimp Before Marinating
This is a small step that many skip—but it makes a big difference. After rinsing or thawing your shrimp, make sure to pat them completely dry with paper towels before marinating.
✅ Why? Excess moisture will water down your marinade and prevent that gorgeous caramelization.
3. Don’t Over-Marinate (Less is More)
Because shrimp are so tender, a quick 15 to 30-minute marinade is plenty to infuse flavor without compromising their texture. Because there’s acid in the marinade (like vinegar or citrus), soaking them too long can cause the shrimp to start “cooking” in the bowl—hello, mushy texture.
👉 Meal Prepping? Make the marinade ahead of time, and add the shrimp just before cooking for maximum freshness and flavor.
4. Save Some Marinade for Basting
Before you mix the raw shrimp in, set aside a few tablespoons of the BBQ marinade.It’s perfect for brushing over the shrimp while they cook, building up a sticky, smoky glaze with every pass.
🔥 Especially useful if you’re grilling—the sugars in the marinade caramelize beautifully when brushed on during the last 1–2 minutes of cook time.
5. Don’t Walk Away—Shrimp Cook FAST
This isn’t the time to multitask. Shrimp only need 2 to 3 minutes per side, so keep a close eye on them to make sure they stay tender and don’t overcook.
🚨 The doneness trick: When shrimp curl into a loose C shape, they’re perfectly cooked. When shrimp curl into a tight O, they’re likely overdone—look for a relaxed C shape for perfect doneness.
6. Want Smokier Flavor? Add a Pinch of Magic
If you’re not grilling but still want that backyard BBQ smokiness, try these tricks:
- Mix in a small splash of liquid smoke to the marinade for an extra hit of smoky flavor—no grill required.
- Double up on smoked paprika.
- Cook the shrimp in a cast-iron skillet to achieve a beautiful sear and lightly charred edges.
7. Get Creative with the Heat Level
What makes this recipe so great is its versatility—you can easily adjust it to suit your taste. When it comes to spice, you’re in charge!
- Like it mild? Omit the chili powder and hot sauce.
- Craving heat? Add cayenne, sriracha, chipotle paste, or even diced jalapeños to the marinade.
- Want smoky heat? Try chipotle in adobo—it’s a flavor bomb.
8. Cook in Batches If Using a Pan
Crowding the pan traps steam, preventing the shrimp from getting that caramelized, sticky BBQ crust you’re after. If needed, cook in two batches and wipe the pan between rounds to avoid burnt marinade.
9. Add a Final Squeeze of Citrus
A last-minute squeeze of lemon or lime juice after cooking adds brightness and balances the sweetness and smokiness of the BBQ sauce. It’s a small step with big flavor payoff.
10. Taste and Adjust Before Cooking (Optional Trick!)
If you’re the type who loves layering flavor, here’s a little secret:
- Before adding shrimp to the marinade, dip a spoon in and give it a taste. Want more tang? Add vinegar. More heat? Add hot sauce. Sweeter? Brown sugar’s your friend.
Fine-tuning before cooking = fewer regrets later.
How to Serve BBQ Shrimp
What makes this BBQ shrimp recipe truly special is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re whipping it up for a party, tucking it into warm tortillas, or layering it over a bowl of grains, this dish is incredibly versatile and packed with flavor.
Need some inspiration? Here are some delicious and creative serving ideas to help you make the most of it!
This BBQ shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile—you can tuck them into tacos, mix them into salads, or build a hearty bowl.
🔗 Want more seafood inspiration? Check out this guide to making the perfect salmon poke bowl at home.
1. BBQ Shrimp Skewers—A Party Favorite!
There’s nothing quite like biting into tender, smoky shrimp straight off the skewer. Not only do they soak up that delicious BBQ shrimp recipe flavor beautifully, but they’re also easy to eat, mess-free, and perfect for outdoor gatherings like backyard cookouts, tailgates, or casual family dinners.
✅ How to Serve It
Place the shrimp skewers on a serving dish and include a small bowl of BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of herbs to enhance the flavor and add a vibrant touch to the presentation. This method also works great if you’re repurposing leftovers or testing a new grilled shrimp recipe.
✅ Make it a Full Meal
Complete your meal with sides like smoky grilled corn, crunchy potato wedges, or a cool, tangy slaw to add balance and texture to your plate. If you’re a fan of shrimp tacos BBQ style, these skewers make an excellent filling alternative—just remove from the stick and tuck into warm tortillas.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning over the heat. For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp first using an easy shrimp marinade to lock in bold seasoning and juiciness before they hit the grill.
2. BBQ Shrimp Tacos (A Must-Try!) 🌮
This might just be my favorite way to enjoy BBQ shrimp! The smoky-sweet shrimp tucked into a warm tortilla with crunchy slaw and a zesty sauce? Absolutely unreal.
✔ How to Make It:
- Use soft corn or flour tortillas, lightly charred on the grill.
- Serve with a crisp slaw—think shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy lime dressing
- Drizzle with chipotle mayo, sour cream, or avocado crema for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and cotija cheese for a final pop.
👉 Pro Tip: Want an extra tropical twist? Add grilled pineapple for a sweet-savory contrast!
3. BBQ Shrimp Rice Bowls (Healthy & Satisfying!) 🍚
If you’re looking for a balanced, protein-packed meal, BBQ shrimp bowls are the way to go. You can mix and match your favorite grains, veggies, and toppings to build a meal that’s both healthy and insanely flavorful.
✔ Base Options:
- Cilantro-lime rice (a Chipotle-style classic!)
- Quinoa (for a protein boost)
- Cauliflower rice – A great low-carb alternative that still soaks up all the flavor
✔ Topping Ideas:
- Black beans & corn – For a Southwest-inspired bowl with hearty texture and sweetness.
- Grilled bell peppers & onions – Add extra smokiness and a pop of color.
- Avocado slices & fresh mango for a fresh, tropical vibe
👉 Pro Tip: Finish with an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce or a fresh squeeze of lime to elevate the flavor right before serving!
4. BBQ Shrimp Salad (Light & Refreshing!) 🥗
Need something lighter but still packed with flavor? Add BBQ shrimp to a crisp salad for a fast and flavorful meal—perfect for lunch, dinner, or make-ahead meal prep.
✔ Best Greens to Use:
- Romaine or butter lettuce for a classic base
- Arugula for a peppery kick
- Spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost
✔ Top It With:
- Juicy cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Avocado & red onion for creamy contrast
- Crumble on some feta or goat cheese for a tangy, savory touch.
- Mix in toasted pecans or sunflower seeds to add a crunchy, nutty element that elevates every bite.
👉 Pro Tip: A homemade honey-lime vinaigrette ties everything together and pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ shrimp.
5. BBQ Shrimp Pasta (Creamy & Indulgent!) 🍝
Absolutely—BBQ shrimp and pasta are a perfect pair! This BBQ shrimp recipe combines bold, smoky flavors with a rich, creamy sauce for a meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant.
✔ How to Make It:
Toss freshly grilled or pan-seared shrimp (using an easy shrimp marinade for extra flavor) with hot fettuccine or penne. The result? A comforting, flavor-packed pasta dish that hits all the right notes.
Add a luscious sauce made of butter, garlic, cream, and a splash of BBQ sauce to tie everything together. This base allows the shrimp to shine while giving the dish a smoky-sweet twist.
Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation. For a more rustic feel, try cooking the shrimp in a cast-iron skillet—this grilled shrimp recipe approach adds extra depth and a slight char that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
👉 Pro Tip: Want a Cajun-style version? Add a dash of Cajun seasoning and swap the sauce for Alfredo to get a bold, spicy twist on this classic.
6. BBQ Shrimp Sandwiches or Sliders (Crowd-Pleaser!) 🥪
These BBQ shrimp sliders are perfect for game day, parties, or casual weeknight dinners. The shrimp are juicy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious stuffed into a soft bun.
✔ How to Build It:
- Use toasted brioche buns or Hawaiian rolls.
- Add coleslaw for crunch.
- Drizzle with BBQ sauce or aioli.
👉 Pro Tip: Try using Texas toast or garlic bread for an extra indulgent shrimp sandwich!
7. BBQ Shrimp & Grits (Southern Comfort Classic!) 🍛
For a cozy, Southern-style meal, spoon your BBQ shrimp over a bed of creamy, cheese-laced grits. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with deep, savory flavor.
✔ How to Make It:
- Cook stone-ground grits until creamy.
- Stir in butter, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar for richness.
- Layer the BBQ shrimp over creamy grits, then finish with a scattering of crispy bacon and fresh green onions for a flavorful crunch in every bite
👉 Pro Tip: Want a spicy Cajun twist? Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika to your grits!
Bonus: Best Sides to Serve with BBQ Shrimp
Want to round out your meal? These sides go hand-in-hand with BBQ shrimp:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| 🥔 Grilled Corn on the Cob | Its smoky-sweet taste pairs perfectly with the bold flavor of BBQ shrimp. |
| 🥗 Tangy Coleslaw | Crunchy and refreshing with BBQ richness |
| 🥖 Garlic Bread or Cornbread | Perfect for soaking up extra sauce |
| 🍟 Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet meets smoky—delicious balance |
| 🥒 Pickled Red Onions | Bring a tangy pop that balances the richness of the dish with a burst of brightness. |
Make Ahead and Storage
Whether you’re cooking for a group or planning ahead, here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat BBQ shrimp while keeping them tender and flavorful. BBQ shrimp are quick to cook, but did you know you can prep them ahead of time to make meal planning even easier?
👉 For more detailed guidelines, check out the official USDA Refrigeration and Food Safety guide
How to Make Ahead
Planning to meal prep or host a cookout? Here’s how to prep your shrimp ahead of time without losing any of their freshness or flavor.
✔ Prep Ahead: Marinate the shrimp and refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors soak in before cooking. Any longer and the acidity (vinegar or citrus) can start to break down the shrimp, making them mushy.
✔ Chop & Prep Ingredients – If serving with tacos, bowls, or salads, prep toppings like slaw, avocado, and sauces ahead of time.
✔ Skewer the Shrimp (If Grilling) – Threading the shrimp onto skewers ahead of time saves effort during cooking. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to grill!
👉 Pro Tip: If you need to prep a day ahead, store shrimp separately from the marinade and toss them together 15-30 minutes before cooking.
Storing Leftover BBQ Shrimp
Cooked shrimp stay fresh and flavorful for several days if stored properly. Here’s how to make sure your shrimp stay tender, juicy, and full of flavor:
In the Refrigerator
- Store any leftover shrimp in a sealed container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days for the best taste and texture.
- Let the shrimp cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Store the shrimp in a shallow container to avoid crushing them and to help them cool quickly and evenly for safe keeping.
✔ Best Used For: Tacos, rice bowls, pasta, and salads.
👉 Pro Tip: Store any extra BBQ sauce separately and drizzle it over the shrimp when reheating for extra moisture!
👉 For detailed storage times and food safety tips, check out the FDA’s official food storage chart (PDF).
Freezing BBQ Shrimp
Yes, you can freeze BBQ shrimp! Freezing your leftovers is an easy way to enjoy a tasty, hassle-free meal later on.
How to Freeze Cooked BBQ Shrimp:
1️⃣ Let the shrimp cool completely after cooking.
2️⃣ Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours (this prevents them from sticking together).
3️⃣ Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container and keep them stored for up to 3 months
✔ Be sure to label the container with the date, so you can easily keep track of how long it’s been stored.
👉 Pro Tip: Freeze shrimp without the sauce if possible. BBQ sauce can become watery when thawed, so it’s best to add fresh sauce after reheating.
How to Reheat BBQ Shrimp (Without Drying Them Out!)Methodology
Shrimp are sensitive and, heated, may become rubbery. The secret is to keep away from overdooking by gently warming them.
Perfect Methods for Reheat BBQ Shrimp: 🔥
🔥 On the Stovetop (Best Method!)
✔ Set a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
✔ To keep them moist, throw sloshful of water or preserved BBQ sauce.
✔ Cook just until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes.
👉 Pro Tip: For added richness, reheat adding a tiny dab of butter!
🔥 In the oven (for bigger batches)
✔ Set oven to300°F (150°C).
✔ Put prawns in a single layer on a foil-covered baking tray.
✔ To stop drying, toss one tablespoon of butter or BBQ sauce.
✔ Heat for five to seven minutes till warmed through
🔥 in the microwave—quick but dangerous!
✔ Put prawns in a microwave-safe dish topped with a damp paper towel.
✔ In between, heat in 10-second bursts.
✔ Stop right away when they start to warm—don’t overdo it!
👉 Pro Tip: Use this technique just if you’re rushing, as the microwave can create shrimp rubbery.
🔥 Straight from Frozen—No Thawing Required!
✔ Reheat frozen prawns straight in a skillet over low heat with a little BBQ sauce or butter.
✔ Cook until warmed thoroughly, 3 to 4 minutes, stirring now and again.
✔ Alternative: Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat using one of the techniques listed above.
Can You Eat BBQ Shrimp Cold?
.Undoubtedly! Perfect for spaghetti dinners, sandwiches, and salads are cold BBQ prawns. Just remove them from the refrigerator fifteen minutes before serving to avoid extreme coldness.
✔ Ideal Cold Uses:
- thrown into a summer salad combining greens and avocado.
- For a quick lunch wrap, stuffed in a wheat tortilla with coleslaw.
- Added for more protein to pasta salads and grain bowls.
Last Notes on Preserving BBQ Shrimp
✔ BBQ prawns freeze for three months and keep three days in the refrigerator.
✔ Reheat for the best texture either in the oven or on the stovetop gently
✔get creative with leftovers! Stuff them into tacos, salads, sandwiches, or spaghetti.
I will respond to the most often requested BBQ shrimp inquiries, providing alternatives, cooking advice, and troubleshooting help. All ready? 😉 🚀
FAQs
- Can this dish call for pre-cooked shrimp?
Indeed, however keep in mind that pre-cooked prawns can overcook and absorb the sauce less effectively. Toss pre-cooked shrimp in the sauce right at the end to gently reheat through. - For smoked paprika, what might I replace?
Regular paprika with a bit of chili pepper substitutes nicely if you don’t have smoked paprika. Try a bit of liquid smoke for a somewhat unusual taste. - Could I grill this dish instead?
Of course! Skewer the shrimp and grill over medium-high heat, basting last few minutes of grilling with BBQ sauce. This gives the meal a fantastic scorched taste. - When should I know the shrimp are finished cooking?
Perfectly cooked shrimp are pink, opaque, curled into a loose “C,” shape. They are overdone if they co curl into a tight “O.”