Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter are a perfect blend of simplicity and bold, irresistible flavor. Juicy shrimp are marinated lightly, threaded onto skewers, and grilled until perfectly charred, then brushed generously with rich garlic butter. This recipe captures the essence of summer grilling while remaining quick enough for busy weeknights.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a light dinner, or looking for an impressive yet easy appetizer, these shrimp skewers deliver every time. The combination of smoky grill marks, tender shrimp, and fragrant garlic butter creates a dish that feels special without being complicated.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Shrimp cook in minutes, making this dish ideal when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The garlic butter adds indulgence, while grilling keeps the dish light and fresh.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it balances elegance and ease perfectly. With just a handful of ingredients, you get restaurant-quality flavor at home. It’s great for entertaining, healthy enough for weeknight dinners, and adaptable to many cuisines and flavor profiles.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Servings

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 6–8 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving

Course: Main Course or Appetizer
Cuisine: American / Mediterranean

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Garlic Butter

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

For Serving (Optional)

• Lemon wedges
• Extra chopped parsley

Cooking Directions

Shrimp are seasoned lightly, skewered, and grilled quickly over medium-high heat. As they cook, they are brushed with garlic butter, allowing the butter to melt into the shrimp and enhance the smoky grilled flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and place them in a bowl. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. Set aside.

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp
Thread shrimp onto skewers, piercing each shrimp twice so they lie flat.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat the grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, brushing with garlic butter as they cook.

Step 6: Finish and Rest
Remove shrimp when they turn pink and opaque. Brush with remaining garlic butter and let rest for 1–2 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve the shrimp skewers hot with lemon wedges on the side. They pair beautifully with rice, grilled vegetables, salad, or warm crusty bread. They also work well as a party appetizer or taco filling.

Recipe Tips

• Use large or jumbo shrimp to prevent overcooking
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling
• Do not overcook shrimp—they become rubbery quickly
• Brush garlic butter after flipping to avoid burning garlic
• Keep grill heat consistent for even cooking

Variations

Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter.

Herb Butter Shrimp
Mix in thyme, oregano, or basil for extra aroma.

Lemon Pepper Shrimp
Increase lemon zest and add cracked lemon pepper seasoning.

Honey Garlic Shrimp
Add 1 teaspoon honey to the butter for a sweet-savory glaze.

Asian-Inspired Shrimp
Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the marinade and finish with sesame seeds.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator:
Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Freeze cooked shrimp (without skewers) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Special Equipment Needed

• Outdoor grill or grill pan
• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Basting brush
• Tongs

Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter are a simple yet stunning dish that delivers big flavor in very little time. With juicy shrimp, smoky grill marks, and rich garlic butter, this recipe is perfect for everything from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to grilling favorite.