There’s something magical about the sizzle of shrimp on the grill, isn’t there? With just a hint of char and a drizzle of lemon garlic butter, this Crispy Grilled Shrimp recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. In just 10 minutes, you can serve up a dish that feels both gourmet and effortless—perfect for those impromptu gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This grilled lemon shrimp not only dazzles the taste buds but also keeps things light and gluten-free, making it a win for both health-conscious eaters and seafood lovers alike. Want to know how to whip up this stunning dish? Let’s dive in and get grilling!
Why Is This Grilled Shrimp Recipe a Must-Try?
Quick and easy: In just 10 minutes, you’ll go from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy weeknights and last-minute guests.
Bursting with flavor: The lemon garlic butter adds a zesty richness that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.
Gluten-free goodness: Enjoy a healthy, guilt-free meal that everyone can savor, regardless of dietary preferences.
Versatile options: Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops for a variety of delicious proteins—perfect for experimenting!
Perfect for sharing: Grill a platter to impress guests, or serve it as a light dish with crusty bread or over a fresh salad. Want more lemony delights? Check out these Lemon Dilly Chicken or Lemon Squares Luscious for inspiration!
Grilled Lemon Shrimp Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this irresistible dish!
For the Butter Sauce
- Unsalted Butter (90g / 6 tbsp) – Adds richness to the sauce. Substitution: Can use salted butter but reduce salt in the recipe.
- Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the flavor of the butter sauce.
- Garlic (3 tsp, very finely chopped) – Provides aroma and depth. Note: Avoid using a mincer to prevent burning.
- Lemon Juice (1.5 tbsp + 1 tbsp for shrimp) – Adds acidity to balance flavors. More can be added to taste.
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp/Prawns (500g/1 lb, raw, peeled, deveined) – Main protein source. Substitution: Can use frozen but ensure fully thawed and drained.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Offers additional garlic flavor.
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a smoky depth. Plain paprika can be used as an alternative.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Introduces a slight heat.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Helps cook shrimp and enhances flavor.
- Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Complements the dish seasoning.
For Grilling & Garnish
- Lemon (1, halved) – For grilling and garnish.
- Parsley (2 tbsp, finely chopped) – Adds freshness and color as a garnish.
Dive into this delightful recipe for grilled lemon shrimp, and transform your next meal!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter
Step 1: Prep BBQ Grills
Start by brushing the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Preheat your BBQ grill on high heat for about 10 minutes, ensuring it reaches a sizzling temperature before cooking. You want the grill to be hot enough that when you place the shrimp, they immediately start to sear, giving that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 2: Make Lemon Garlic Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it just starts to bubble. Add the finely chopped garlic and salt, stirring continuously. Cook until the garlic turns a light golden brown, about 2–3 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and mix in 1.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to complete your rich lemon garlic butter sauce.
Step 3: Prepare Shrimp
While the sauce cools, take your raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated with the seasoning. Use your fingers to mix gently, so each shrimp is enveloped in flavor.
Step 4: Grill Shrimp
Place the seasoned shrimp directly onto the preheated grill, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow even cooking. Grill for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden color and develop crispy edges. Keep an eye on them; shrimp cooks quickly, and you want them perfectly tender and juicy without overcooking.
Step 5: Serve
Once grilled to perfection, remove the shrimp from the BBQ using tongs and place them in a serving dish. Drizzle the luscious lemon garlic butter sauce over the shrimp, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grilled lemon halves for an inviting presentation, and get ready to dig into your delicious crispy grilled shrimp!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Lemon Shrimp
Fridge: Store cooked grilled lemon shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezer: Although best enjoyed fresh, grilled shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are sealed tightly.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or the oven until warmed through but not overcooked.
Preparation Tip: If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider making just enough for one meal so you can enjoy the freshness of your grilled lemon shrimp!
What to Serve with Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter
Enticing flavors and textures await when you’re ready to create a full meal from this scrumptious shrimp dish.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes complements the zesty lemon garlic shrimp beautifully, creating a satisfying contrast. Each bite is like a warm hug for your taste buds.
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Zesty Garlic Bread: Crunchy and aromatic, this bread is perfect for sopping up every drop of that luscious lemon garlic butter. Your guests will thank you for the extra flavor!
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Light Arugula Salad: Fresh and peppery arugula tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette will bring out the brightness of the shrimp, adding a refreshing and healthy note to your spread.
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Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a smoky flavor, enhancing the taste of the shrimp while keeping your meal vibrantly appealing. An excellent partner for your grill!
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, this rice dish will soak up any extra sauce from the shrimp and brings a delightful acidity that complements the meal beautifully.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will elevate your dining experience, balancing the richness of the shrimp while adding a refreshing touch. Alternately, a sparkling water with lemon is a perfect non-alcoholic choice!
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Lemon Sorbet: To finish off your meal on a light note, serve refreshing lemon sorbet, echoing the flavors of the shrimp while providing a delightful palate cleanser.
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Herbed Quinoa: Light, nutty, and incredibly versatile, quinoa adds a wholesome touch to your meal and pairs nicely with both the shrimp and any sides you choose.
With these delightful pairings, you’ll create a well-rounded and tantalizing dining experience that is sure to impress!
Grilled Lemon Shrimp: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize this delightful grilled shrimp recipe, enhancing it with your favorite flavors and ingredients!
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Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein option. Both will soak up that rich lemon garlic butter beautifully.
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Herbal Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter sauce for an aromatic kick. These herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your grilled shrimp.
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Veggie Medley: Thread your shrimp onto skewers with bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a wholesome, veggie-packed BBQ feast. This adds vibrant colors and textures to your platter.
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Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, toss in more cayenne pepper or drizzle with sriracha before serving. The added spice will complement the zesty lemon and garlic perfectly.
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Creamy Twist: Whisk in some creamy Greek yogurt or sour cream to the butter sauce for a tangy depth. This creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp.
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Make it Citrus: Consider adding zest from the lemon or lime to the butter sauce for an extra citrusy zing that brightens up the dish, enhancing its freshness.
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Sweet Touch: A dash of honey or agave syrup in the butter sauce will balance the acidity, adding a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the lemon.
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Explore Other Flavors: Check out these recipes for further inspiration on citrusy delights: Blueberry Lemon Curd for a sweet treat or Garlic Butter Shrimp for another flavorful seafood option.
Embrace these variations to make this dish uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Grilled Lemon Shrimp
- Dry for Crispiness: Ensure shrimp are completely dry before seasoning. This step prevents them from steaming and promotes a crispy texture, perfect for grilled lemon shrimp.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times! Grill shrimp for just 2 minutes per side to keep them tender. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough.
- Skewering Wisdom: For smaller shrimp, use two skewers to prevent spinning on the grill. If using wood skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.
- High Heat is Key: Make sure your grill is hot before placing shrimp on it. This seals in flavors and creates a delicious crisp on the outside.
- Flavor Fusion: Experiment with herbs like parsley or dill in your lemon garlic butter sauce for added freshness. This elevates the flavor profile of your grilled lemon shrimp!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the shrimp up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply pat them dry and toss with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and pepper, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The lemon garlic butter sauce can also be made up to 3 days in advance—just melt the butter, sauté the garlic until golden, mix in lemon juice, and cool before storing in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, grill the shrimp directly from the fridge (no need to thaw) and drizzle with your prepped sauce for delicious, hassle-free results. This method not only saves you time but ensures the shrimp remain just as juicy and flavorful!
Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the best shrimp for grilling?
When choosing shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a slight sea breeze scent—freshness is key! Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage. Ideally, opt for raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp work too; just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained before cooking.
How should I store leftover grilled shrimp?
Absolutely! Once your shrimp have cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat and maintain their crispy texture, I recommend using a skillet over low heat. Just a quick warm-up will do; you want them heated through without being overcooked!
Can I freeze grilled lemon shrimp?
Definitely! If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, you can freeze the grilled shrimp for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet or oven.
What should I do if my shrimp turn out rubbery?
Very! Rubberiness can happen if shrimp are overcooked. They usually cook quickly—just 2 minutes per side on the grill is perfect. Always ensure that the grill is hot enough and that you remove them once they turn golden and crispy. If you’re uncertain, take one off and cut it open to check for that tender, juicy inside!
Are grilled shrimp safe for pets?
Yes, but proceed with caution! Plain, cooked shrimp without any seasoning is generally safe for dogs (and some cats) to eat in moderation. However, avoid garlic and other spices found in our lemon garlic butter sauce, as these can be harmful to pets. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding new foods to your pet’s diet.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or even use olive oil to create a lighter version of the lemon garlic sauce. Just make sure to balance the flavors by adding a bit of salt and adjusting the lemon juice as necessary to keep that zesty flavor intact. Enjoy experimenting with this grilled lemon shrimp!
Grilled Lemon Shrimp: A Zesty Delight for Quick Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by brushing the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Preheat your BBQ grill on high heat for about 10 minutes, ensuring it reaches a sizzling temperature.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it just starts to bubble. Add the finely chopped garlic and salt, stirring continuously. Cook until the garlic turns a light golden brown, about 2–3 minutes, then mix in 1.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
- Take your raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp and pat them dry. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned shrimp directly onto the preheated grill, ensuring they are spaced apart. Grill for approximately 2 minutes per side, until they turn golden and develop crispy edges.
- Remove the shrimp from the BBQ using tongs and place them in a serving dish. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over the shrimp and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grilled lemon halves.
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