Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich buttery flavor. Quick to prepare and full of taste, they make an ideal appetizer, main course, or party dish. With their slightly smoky, caramelized edges and tender, juicy interior, these skewers bring restaurant-quality flavor right to your backyard grill or stovetop skillet.
This recipe is a favorite because it’s versatile, easy, and elegant. The garlic butter not only enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness but also creates a luscious sauce that can be drizzled over rice, pasta, or salad. Perfect for weeknight dinners, summer barbecues, or special occasions, these shrimp skewers are always a crowd-pleaser.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple, fast, and incredibly flavorful. With only a handful of ingredients, you get a juicy, buttery, garlicky dish that feels indulgent yet cooks in under 15 minutes. It’s the perfect way to elevate shrimp from ordinary to extraordinary.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Quick, easy, and packed with flavor
- Perfect for entertaining or family meals
- Juicy, tender shrimp every time
- Minimal ingredients, maximum impact
- Pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad
Recipe Overview
- Course: Appetizer / Main Course
- Cuisine: American / Seafood
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings (2 skewers per person)
- Calories: Approx. 220 calories per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
Cooking Directions
- Prepare shrimp and marinade
- Thread shrimp onto skewers
- Cook shrimp on grill or skillet
- Brush with garlic butter during cooking
- Serve hot with garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Marinade
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Place peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl. Pour half of the garlic butter marinade over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes (don’t exceed 20 minutes to prevent shrimp from becoming tough).
Step 3: Thread Shrimp Onto Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread 4–5 shrimp per skewer, leaving a little space between each shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- Grill method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Skillet method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 2–3 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Brush with remaining garlic butter while cooking for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer cooked shrimp skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
How to Serve
- Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a full meal
- Pair with grilled vegetables or a crisp salad
- Use as a topping for pasta or creamy risotto
- Great for cocktail parties as finger food
- Drizzle extra garlic butter for dipping
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcook shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for mild heat
- Let skewers rest for 1–2 minutes after cooking for juicier shrimp
- Use fresh garlic for a bold, aromatic taste
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Add ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes to the garlic butter marinade for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Version
Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil to the marinade for a fragrant variation.
Coconut Garlic Shrimp
Replace half the butter with coconut oil for a tropical twist.
Parmesan Garlic Shrimp
Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the shrimp before serving.
Mediterranean Style
Add a splash of white wine and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the marinade.
Freezing and Storage
Storage
- Store cooked shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying
Freezing
- Freeze uncooked marinated shrimp skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking
Special Equipment Needed
- Grill or stovetop skillet
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Small mixing bowl for marinade
- Tongs for turning shrimp
- Serving platter
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are a quick, flavorful, and visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion. Juicy shrimp infused with garlic, butter, and a hint of paprika make an irresistible meal that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or grilled veggies. Easy to prepare, versatile, and sure to impress, these shrimp skewers are a must-try for seafood lovers looking for a delicious and simple recipe.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Description
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich buttery flavor. Quick to prepare and full of taste, they make an ideal appetizer, main course, or party dish. With their slightly smoky, caramelized edges and tender, juicy interior, these skewers bring restaurant-quality flavor right to your backyard grill or stovetop skillet.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Garlic Butter Marinade : In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
-
Marinate the Shrimp : Place peeled and deveined shrimp in a large bowl. Pour half of the garlic butter marinade over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes (don’t exceed 20 minutes to prevent shrimp from becoming tough).
-
Thread Shrimp Onto Skewers : If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread 4–5 shrimp per skewer, leaving a little space between each shrimp.
-
Cook the Shrimp : Grill method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Skillet method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 2–3 minutes per side until fully cooked. Brush with remaining garlic butter while cooking for extra flavor.
-
Serve : Transfer cooked shrimp skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
