How to Make Perfectly Grilled Colossal Shrimp

Grilled colossal shrimp make for an incredible appetizer or main dish during grilling season. Their large size means you get succulent, juicy shrimp with nice char lines infusing tons of smoky flavor. Grilling shrimp sounds simple, but there are some tips and tricks to get perfect results every time. This complete guide will teach you everything you need to know for grilling jumbo shrimp successfully.

What are Colossal Shrimp?

Colossal shrimp, also called jumbo shrimp, are extra large shrimp that weigh about 12-15 shrimp per pound. Regular large shrimp weigh about 31-35 per pound for comparison. The colossal size means the shrimp cook quickly on the grill and you get very impressive presentation.

Some key tips when buying colossal shrimp

• Look for shrimp that are all a similar large size for even cooking. Avoid shrimp with a wide range of small to large.

• Choose shrimp with the shells on to preserve moisture during grilling.

• Opt for wild caught shrimp for better flavor and texture.

• Make sure the shrimp smell fresh, not fishy or ammonia-like

Preparing Shrimp for Grilling

Proper prep is key for grilled shrimp success

• First, peel the shells, leaving the tails on for presentation.

• Use a sharp knife to slice down the back of the shrimp to remove the vein.

• Pat the shrimp very dry, as moisture will make them steam instead of sear.

• I like to skewer the shrimp to make them easy to flip on the grill. Soak wooden skewers beforehand to prevent burning.

• Brush the shrimp lightly with oil to promote browning and seasoning adherence.

The Best Way to Season Shrimp for the Grill

Adding big, bold flavor is vital for grilled shrimp. Here are some stellar seasoning options:

• Lemon Pepper – Lemon zest, cracked black pepper, salt, garlic powder

• Cajun – Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano

• Jerk – Jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic, scallions

• Herb – Italian seasoning, parsley, basil, thyme, oregano

• Spicy – Ancho chile powder, cayenne, cumin, garlic powder

• Simple – Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder

No matter what flavors you use, coat the shrimp evenly on all sides and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes before grilling for maximum flavor penetration.

How to Grill Shrimp Perfectly Every Time

Grilling shrimp takes some finesse. Follow these tips for absolute perfection:

• Use a clean, well-oiled grill grate to prevent sticking. Heat the grill to medium-high.

• Place the shrimp skewers perpendicular to the grates to get those beautiful char marks.

• Grill the shrimp uncovered so they sear and caramelize instead of steam.

• Cook 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and are just cooked through but still juicy.

• Use a thinner metal spatula to gently flip the shrimp halves way through.

• Watch the shrimp closely to avoid overcooking. It goes quickly!

• Remove the shrimp immediately when done and serve warm.

• Let the shrimp rest for 2-3 minutes before serving if not using skewers.

Grilling Shrimp Direct vs Indirect Heat

You can use direct or indirect heat to grill shrimp. Here’s how to choose:

Direct Heat

• Cooks shrimp faster, giving great char and caramelization

• Best for quick cooking skewered shrimp

• Higher risk of flare ups from shrimp drippings

Indirect Heat

• More gentle, even heating without hot spots

• Great for larger or thicker shrimp

• Helps prevent shrimps from drying out

• Can use wood chips or planks for extra smoky flavor

I prefer direct heat for tail-on shrimp under 1 lb. Move them to indirect heat if shrimps start to char too quickly.

Grilled Shrimp Serving Suggestions

Grilled jumbo shrimp make an amazing appetizer or main dish. Some tasty ways to serve them:

• On skewers as an appetizer with dipping sauces like chimichurri, teriyaki, or sriracha aioli

• In shrimp tacos or po’ boys with tangy slaw

• Over salad greens with citrus vinaigrette

• Piled on cheesy grits or creamy polenta

• Nested on top of garlic bread with lemon and gremolata

• In a shrimp boil with corn, potatoes, and smoked sausage

• On pasta or pizza with lots of Parmesan and fresh herbs

The possibilities are endless! Get creative with different flavor combinations.

Make a Complete Shrimp Meal

For a full grilled shrimp dinner, serve it with:

• Grilled vegetables – Zucchini, squash, eggplant, peppers, onions, etc.

• Pasta salad – Fusilli, farfalle or rotini pasta with pesto, tomatoes, mozzarella, spinach

• Coleslaw – Shredded cabbage and carrots dressed lightly with oil and vinegar

• Corn on the cob – Grilled with a savory spice blend

• Cheesy grits – Sharp cheddar grits with scallions

• Roasted potatoes – Red potatoes tossed in olive oil, garlic and rosemary

Mix and match different veggie sides, starches, and salads for a hearty, well-rounded shrimp meal. Set out lemon wedges, hot sauce and crusty bread to round it all out!

Grilling Tips for Perfect Shrimp

Follow these pro tips and tricks for fail-proof grilled jumbo shrimp every time:

• Use metal or bamboo skewers instead of wood that can burn over direct heat.

• Clean the grill grates well and coat with vegetable oil to prevent shrimp from sticking.

• Grill shrimp over direct heat for the best char lines and caramelized flavor.

• Preheat the grill fully before adding the shrimp to instantly start searing and cooking.

• Resist the urge to move the shrimp too early or you won’t get deep grill marks.

• Brush a very light coating of oil on the shrimp so spices adhere well.

• Pull shrimp as soon as they turn opaque to avoid overcooking and drying out.

• Let shrimp rest for 2-3 minutes before serving if not served on skewers.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Grilled Shrimp

To store leftover grilled shrimp:

• Let shrimp cool completely before storing.

• Place in an airtight container or zip top bag.

• Store in the fridge for 3-4 days maximum.

To reheat grilled shrimp:

• In a skillet over medium-low heat with a bit of butter or oil for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

• Arrange on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 4-6 minutes until hot.

• Microwave in 30 second intervals until heated through.

Avoid overcooking the shrimp when reheating or they will turn rubbery.

Inspiring Grilled Colossal Shrimp Recipes

For more flavorful grilled jumbo shrimp inspiration, try these delicious recipes:

Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp – Marinated with garlic, lemon, parsley and thyme.

BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers – With a homemade BBQ spice rub and glaze.

Jerk Shrimp Skewers – Infused with spicy and robust Jamaican jerk seasoning.

Cajun Grilled Shrimp – Blackened with Cajun seasoning for a NOLA twist.

Honey Sriracha Shrimp Skewers – Sweet and spicy glazed shrimp.

Achieve Shrimp Perfection on the Grill

Now you have all the secrets and pro tips for grill shrimp like a true pro! With juicy seasoned jumbo shrimp and crisp colorful veggie sides, you can create an amazing summer meal that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort. Get ready for your new favorite shrimp recipes straight from the grill!