how long should shrimp be cooked on the grill

How Long Should Shrimp Be Cooked On The Grill For Perfectly Cooked Shrimp Every Time

Grilled shrimp is a classic summer meal that’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. When shrimp is cooked properly on the grill, you get tender, juicy shrimp with nice char marks and a subtle smoky flavor. However, shrimp can go from perfect to overcooked in just minutes on the hot grill.

So how long should you actually grill shrimp for ideal results? Here, I’ll explain everything you need to know about getting your shrimp cooked just right on the barbecue, including factors like shrimp size, methods, and doneness cues. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be a grilled shrimp pro in no time!

Shrimp Grilling Times Depend On The Size Of The Shrimp

The most important factor determining how long to cook shrimp on the grill is the size of the shrimp you are working with. Larger shrimp require more time over the heat than smaller shrimp. Here are general grilling times based on shrimp size:

• Colossal shrimp (10 per pound or less): 4-5 minutes per side
• Jumbo shrimp (11-15 per pound): 3-4 minutes per side
• Extra large shrimp (16-20 per pound): 2-3 minutes per side
• Large shrimp (21-30 per pound): 1-2 minutes per side
• Medium shrimp (31-40 per pound): 1-2 minutes per side

As you can see the grilling time decreases as the shrimp get smaller in size. Those big colossal shrimp may need up to 10 minutes total over the heat, while medium shrimp may only need 2-4 minutes total.

The thickness of the shrimp also plays a role. If you have jumbo shrimp that are thicker than normal, they may take closer to 4 minutes per side. Very thin jumbo shrimp may only need 2-3 minutes per side. So you have to take into account both the size (number per pound) and thickness of your particular batch of shrimp.

Direct Vs. Indirect Grilling Methods Impact Cook Times

In addition to size, the grilling method can impact how long shrimp needs to cook. There are two main methods for grilling shrimp:

Direct Grilling Method

• Shrimp placed directly over heat
• Hotter and faster cooking method
• Watch closely to avoid overcooking

Indirect Grilling Method:

• Shrimp placed on cooler side of grill or in grill basket
• More gentle, slower cooking
• Additional time needed

With direct grilling over direct heat, the shrimp will cook faster so the times listed above based on size work well. Indirect grilling takes a bit longer since the shrimp aren’t directly over the heat source. Add an extra 1-2 minutes to the cook times if using the indirect method.

No matter which method you use, avoid overcrowding the shrimp on the grill. They should have a little space in between pieces so they can cook evenly.

Check Shrimp At Minimum Cook Time And Visually Assess Doneness

It can be tricky to tell exactly when shrimp is cooked through, but not overdone. That’s why it’s important to start checking it at the minimum recommended cook time based on size and method.

One foolproof way to assess doneness is to use an instant-read thermometer. Shrimp is fully cooked when it registers an internal temperature of around 130-140°F.

If you don’t have a thermometer, you can gauge doneness visually:

• Look at color change – shrimp turns from grey to opaque pink/white when fully cooked
• Check that tails have curled slightly
• Outer texture becomes firm when fully cooked

Even if the shrimp has only cooked the minimum recommended time, start checking for these visual cues of doneness. It’s easy to go from perfectly cooked to overcooked very quickly.

If the shrimp doesn’t appear quite done, continue cooking for 30 second intervals, checking after each one. Better to slightly undercook and finish for another minute than to overcook and end up with rubbery shrimp.

Cook Jumbo Shrimp For 4 Minutes Per Side As A Starting Point

If you are grilling jumbo shrimp, a very safe starting point is to cook them for about 4 minutes per side over direct medium-high heat. Jumbo shrimp are generally labeled as 15 per pound or less.

After 4 minutes on the first side, flip the shrimp and cook for another 4 minutes on the second side. This 8 minute total cook time is on the longer end for jumbo shrimp, so they likely will be fully cooked at this point.

However, it’s essential to still assess doneness by looking for the color change to opaque and checking that the texture is firm. If needed, continue cooking for 30 second intervals until fully cooked.

While 4 minutes per side is a good starting point, remember that grilling times can vary based on the thickness of the specific shrimp. Pay close attention and rely on visual cues, not just cook times.

Cook Medium Shrimp For 2 Minutes Per Side

If you have medium shrimp, which are typically labeled as 36-40 per pound, a safe starting point is cooking them for about 2 minutes per side.

After the initial 2 minutes, flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Medium shrimp generally take 4 minutes or less total over direct medium-high heat.

Just like with jumbo shrimp, you need to visually assess doneness at the 4 minute mark. Check for an opaque, pinkish color and firm texture. If the shrimp looks undercooked, go ahead and continue grilling for 30 second intervals until fully cooked through.

Grilling times for any size shrimp are always a range and not an exact science. Rely on visual assessments, not just cook times, to avoid under or overcooked shrimp. It’s a quick cooking protein, so staying vigilant is key.

Tips For Grilling Shrimp Perfectly Every Time

Follow these tips and tricks to help ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly cooked, never overdone, when grilling:

• Always start by cleaning shrimp. Peel, devein, and pat dry. The shells help protect shrimp from overcooking, so this promotes even cooking.

• Use metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning. Double skewer to keep shrimp from spinning.

• Coat shrimp lightly in oil or marinade to prevent sticking. Acidic marinades should marinate 15-30 minutes max.

• Preheat grill properly to medium high heat, about 400°F. Remember – hotter grill = faster cook time.

• Arrange shrimp in single layer so they cook evenly. Don’t overcrowd.

• Flip shrimp in order placed on grill so first ones on are flipped first. Consistent cook time is key.

• Grill over direct heat for best results. Indirect heat will increase cook time.

• Start checking doneness at minimum cook time recommended for size. Look for opaque color, curled tails, and firm texture.

• If needed, continue grilling in 30 second intervals until shrimp looks fully cooked. Avoid overcooking on hot grill.

• Baste with extra sauce or lemon butter at the very end for bonus flavor.

• Let shrimp rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Mastering the ideal cook times for grilling shrimp of any size just takes a little practice. Now that you know what to look for, you can achieve tender, juicy, perfectly cooked grilled shrimp every time your fire up the barbecue. Get ready for your best shrimp on the grill yet!