Garlic, lemon, and herbs are used to season these grilled shrimp skewers. The shrimp are then threaded onto sticks and cooked until they are just right. In just 20 minutes, you can have shrimp kabobs on the table. They’re great for a busy night!
Shrimp skewers are a simple yet satisfying dinner option. While I especially love these shrimp kabobs on the grill, they also can be broiled in the oven.
These easy grilled shrimp skewers are a family favorite. I love grilling right now. The shrimp are marinated, then threaded onto sticks and seared to perfection. Add a little lemon and herbs on top and you’ve got the ultimate speedy dinner.
Shrimp on the barbie is a classic summer tradition. The sweet, succulent taste of shrimp fresh off the grill is hard to beat. However, knowing how long to cook shrimp on the barbecue can be tricky. Undercook them and you risk food poisoning. Overcook them and you’ll end up with rubbery, flavorless shrimp. So what’s the perfect grilling time for irresistible shrimp every time? Read on to find out.
The Science Behind Grilling Shrimp
Before we dive into specifics, it helps to understand what happens when shrimp is cooked. Shrimp is made up of proteins that begin to denature and coagulate when exposed to heat. This causes the flesh to firm up and change from translucent to opaque.
Too much heat for too long causes the proteins to over-coagulate squeezing out moisture and resulting in tough, rubbery shrimp. The key is applying high direct heat for just long enough to cook the proteins while sealing in moisture and flavors.
Smaller shrimp cook faster since heat penetrates to the center more quickly. Jumbo shrimp require more time for the heat to travel to the middle of their thicker flesh.
Factors That Affect Shrimp Grilling Times
Several factors impact how long shrimp need to grill:
Shrimp Size
- Small (36-45 per pound): 1-2 minutes per side
- Medium (26-35 per pound): 2-3 minutes per side
- Large (16-25 per pound): 3-4 minutes per side
- Jumbo (less than 15 per pound): 4-5 minutes per side
Thickness
Thicker shrimp retain more moisture but need longer grill times. Peeled vs shell-on shrimp won’t impact grilling time significantly
Grilling Method
- Direct grilling over high heat cooks shrimp faster.
- Indirect grilling over lower heat takes longer.
Temperature
- Hotter grill = faster cooking
- Cooler grill = slower cooking
Marinades
Acidic marinades like lemon or lime juice start “cooking” the shrimp, so they may need less grilling time.
How to Tell When Shrimp is Done
Visual and textural cues indicate when shrimp is cooked properly:
- Opaque and pink throughout
- Firm, springy texture when squeezed
- Internal temperature of 135-145°F
Undercooked shrimp will be translucent and mushy. Overcooked shrimp appears rubbery and tough.
The most foolproof way is to use an instant-read thermometer. Shrimp is safe to eat at 135°F, but many prefer 145°F for ideal texture.
Step-by-Step Guide for Grilling Shrimp
Follow these simple steps for perfect grilled shrimp every time:
1. Thaw Shrimp
Defrost frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method. Grilling partially frozen shrimp risks unsafe temperatures.
2. Peel & Devein (Optional)
Peeling is optional but helps the marinade penetrate. Deveining improves appearance and taste. Leaving shells on provides protection for basting.
3. Marinate (Recommended)
Soak shrimp for 15-30 minutes in an acidic marinade to impart flavor and tenderize. Discard used marinade.
4. Skewer Shrimp
Thread shrimp tightly onto skewers to prevent spinning. Soak wooden skewers beforehand.
5. Preheat Grill
Heat gas grill to high (450-550°F) or wait until charcoal grill is covered in gray ash.
6. Oil Grates
Lightly coat grates with oil to prevent sticking.
7. Grill Shrimp
Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and firm. Jumbo shrimp will need more time.
8. Check Doneness
Use thermometer and visual tests for doneness. Cut into thickest shrimp to check.
9. Remove & Enjoy
Get shrimp off grill quickly once cooked through. Brush with sauce glaze if desired.
4 Simple & Delicious Ways to Grill Shrimp
1. Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Marinate peeled shrimp for 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side over direct high heat.
2. Thai Coconut Shrimp
Marinate shrimp for 20 minutes in coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, lime juice, cilantro, and ginger. Grill 2 minutes per side over direct medium-high heat.
3. Cajun Blackened Shrimp
Coat peeled shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Grill 3-4 minutes per side over direct high heat until blackened.
4. BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Wrap peeled shrimp and bacon slices around soaked wooden skewers. Grill over direct medium heat until bacon is crisp, about 5 minutes per side.
Grilling Safety Tips
- Always thaw shrimp thoroughly and grill immediately after marinating.
- Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked shrimp to prevent cross-contamination.
- Cook shrimp on clean, well-oiled grates over direct high heat to kill surface bacteria quickly.
- Discard any shrimp that were undercooked or fell through the grates back on the raw side.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3-4 days.
The Takeaway on BBQ Shrimp
Mastering the perfect grilling time results in tender, juicy shrimp bursting with flavor. The key is high, direct heat for just 2-5 minutes per side depending on size and thickness. Rely on visual and textural cues, knowing that opaque, firm shrimp are done to perfection.
Get creative with global marinades and easy skewers. Just follow basic grilling safety and watch shrimp closely to avoid over or undercooking. In no time, you’ll earn rave reviews for your scrumptious barbecued shrimp!
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How do you grill shrimp?
Rub shrimp with olive oil, herbs, garlic, and lemon before grilling. Then, put them on skewers and cook them. If you want to grill shrimp, you should put them on skewers. If you don’t, the shrimp might fall through the grill grates when you lift them to turn them.
This shrimp marinade starts with olive oil and lemon juice. Along with fresh minced garlic and a lot of dried herbs (I use an Italian seasoning blend), I add another layer of flavor. I like this recipe to be simple, but you can make the marinade even more interesting by adding honey, lemon zest, or a splash of white wine.
Super Quick Video Tips: The Best Way to Grill Shrimp
How do you cook shrimp on a grill?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp on the grill in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Close the grill lid and let the shrimp cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C).
Can you cook skewered shrimp on a grill?
It cooks them too fast, and you run the risk of overcooked, rubbery shrimp. Instead, wait for the grill to get down to medium heat; you should be able to hold your hand over the grate for four seconds. Once you get the ideal temperature, set your skewered shrimp on the grate so they are not crowded.
How long do you cook shrimp on a skewer?
If using wooden skewers, presoak them in water to prevent them from cooking along with the shrimp. Depending on the size of your shrimp, place them over the heat for 1 to 2 minutes per side. “While shrimp cook, it’s crucial to monitor them and flip them, to prevent the shrimp from overcooking,” Price advises.
How do you season grilled shrimp?
Seasoning shrimp can be as simple or complex as you like and there are many delicious grilled shrimp recipes to choose from. If you’re looking for something simple, coat them in olive oil, flavored butter, or barbecue sauce. These can be brushed on while the shrimp are on the grill, but you’ll have to work fast because they cook quickly.