The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting the grill brings back memories of summer nights spent outdoors, where laughter mingles with the fragrant aroma of garlic wafting through the air. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers—an irresistible dish that transforms a simple meal into an elegant feast. These skewers are not just quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights, but they also pack a delightful punch of flavor, leaving you craving more. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as stunning appetizers for your next gathering or a light dinner that satisfies without the heaviness. Are you ready to bring a taste of summer into your kitchen? Let’s get started!
Why Are Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Irresistible?
Simplicity is key here; just toss your shrimp with flavorful ingredients and let them marinate.
Flavor explosion with garlic, butter, and lemon creates a mouthwatering combination that will impress your guests.
Quick cooking means you’ll have succulent skewers ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile dish that shines as an appetizer or a light meal, adapting beautifully to any occasion.
Crowd pleaser, these shrimp skewers are bound to become a favorite for family dinners and gatherings alike!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large shrimp – 1 pound, peeled and deveined, the star of our dish that absorbs flavors beautifully.
For the Garlic Butter Mixture
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced, adding rich, aromatic depth to the skewers.
• Unsalted butter – 6 tablespoons, melted, ensuring that our garlic butter sauce is perfectly rich.
• Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed to brighten up the flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – ¼ teaspoon, for a hint of spice to wake up your taste buds.
• Salt – To taste, for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Black pepper – To taste, complementing the garlic and adding a bit of warmth.
For the Skewers
• Wooden skewers – If using, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning and ensure perfect grilling.
These Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are a delightful, quick-to-make meal that promises to turn any ordinary evening into something special!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with minced garlic, melted butter, chopped parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure the shrimp are well-coated in the flavorful mixture. Allow your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers to rest for 15–20 minutes at room temperature to marinate, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Skewer the Shrimp
After marination, take your skewers and thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, spacing them evenly. If using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaked for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. This step not only adds aesthetic appeal but makes handling your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers easy while cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 375-400°F (190-200°C). Take a moment to oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures perfectly grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers, with that desired charred flavor.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Once the grill is hot, place the shrimp skewers directly on the grates. Grill each side for about 2–3 minutes, watching closely for the shrimp to transform to an opaque pink color and curl slightly. This quick cooking allows you to enjoy delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers in no time!
Step 5: Broil Option
If you choose to broil instead, preheat your broiler to high. Arrange the shrimp skewers on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded, and broil for 2–3 minutes per side. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as the elevation can cook them faster than on the grill.
Step 6: Finish with Sauce
Once fully cooked, you may opt to drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the skewers for an extra burst of flavor. You can also add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the taste further. These finishing touches will elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers to restaurant-quality appetizers.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Finally, it's time to plate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers while still warm. Serve them with your favorite sides or as elegant appetizers at your next gathering. The sizzling aroma and visually appealing skewers are bound to impress everyone!
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking by watching for an opaque pink color and slight curl—about 2-3 minutes per side on the grill.
- Soaking Skewers: If using wooden skewers, always soak them for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, add more garlic or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the marinade for a smoky twist in your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers.
- Resting Time: Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor absorption; the longer, the better!
- Serving Tips: Try serving these skewers with garlic aioli or a zesty dipping sauce to complement their rich, buttery flavor.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Bring your gathering to life with delightful pairings that enhance the rich flavors of these succulent skewers.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture and buttery flavor create a comforting contrast to the shrimp’s brightness.
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Zesty Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds a refreshing bite that complements the savory shrimp beautifully.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus adds a hint of smokiness and vibrant color, elevating your meal visually and flavor-wise.
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Citrus Quinoa Salad: A light, flavorful salad with citrus notes that echoes the lemon in the shrimp, perfect for a balanced plate.
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Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery bread soaked in garlic goodness pairs perfectly and provides a great way to soak up any remaining garlic butter sauce.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the shrimp skewers, enhancing their fresh flavors.
Each of these suggestions enhances the overall experience, making your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers the star of the meal while still offering a variety of textures and flavors!
Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Room Temperature: Enjoy Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture; do not leave them out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet on low heat to maintain tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are heated through without drying out.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers; the possibilities are endless!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter flavor without sacrificing richness.
Try using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an authentic taste that complements the shrimp beautifully. -
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade to give your skewers an exciting heat level.
The extra spice can turn your garlic butter shrimp into a truly daring dish, perfect for those who crave a bit of adventure. -
Citrusy Twist: Swap lemon juice for lime juice or add zest for an extra citrusy brightness.
This tangy variation brings a refreshing twist that enhances the succulent shrimp's flavor. -
Herb Blend: Mix fresh dill, cilantro, or basil with parsley for a bouquet of herb flavors.
Using a combination of herbs can uniquely elevate the dish, creating a wonderful aromatic experience. -
Coconut Infusion: Replace butter with coconut oil for a tropical flair.
The subtle essence of coconut adds a dreamy twist, transporting you straight to a beachside setting with every bite! -
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic amount to 6 or more cloves for an intense flavor burst.
For those who adore garlic, this adjustment turns the flavor profile heavenly and incredibly satisfying. -
Veggie Skewers: Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes between the shrimp on skewers.
These veggies bring vibrant colors and textures, making your skewers not only delicious but also visually appealing! -
Grill Marks: For extra grill flavor, drizzle a bit of smoke flavoring onto the shrimp before grilling.
This simple addition creates a delightful smoky note that enhances the overall grilling experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish even on your busiest nights! You can peel and devein the shrimp up to 3 days in advance, storing them in a sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you're ready to cook, simply marinate the shrimp for at least 5 minutes before grilling or broiling. This quick step enhances the flavor of your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers without sacrificing quality. If you want to go a step further, skewer the marinated shrimp the night before and refrigerate them; just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. Enjoy these time-saving tips to create a fabulous meal with minimal effort!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers?
I recommend using large (21/25 count per pound) or jumbo (16/20 count) shrimp. These sizes are ideal because they’re less prone to overcooking and absorb the garlic and butter flavors beautifully. Fresh shrimp is preferred, but quality frozen shrimp works well too—just ensure they're properly thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers?
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain their tenderness and flavor without drying them out.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cook your shrimp skewers fully, then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the skewers are solid, which takes about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer the frozen skewers to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they're heated through.
How can I prevent the shrimp from overcooking on the grill?
The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is timing! Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side, watching for that lovely opaque pink color and slight curl. If you're unsure, you can always test one—just make sure they are opaque throughout and firm to the touch.
Can I use other ingredients for additional flavor?
Very! You can experiment by adding more minced garlic, a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost. Feel free to get creative with spices that suit your palate!
Are Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers safe for pets?
It's best to keep Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers away from pets. Garlic and high amounts of butter aren't safe for dogs. If your furry friend happens to take a tiny bite, they might be okay, but regular consumption should be avoided. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about your pet's diet!
Irresistibly Juicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with minced garlic, melted butter, chopped parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat the shrimp in the mixture. Marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- After marination, take your skewers and thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, spacing them evenly. If using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaked for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of 375-400°F (190-200°C) and oil the grill grates.
- Place the shrimp skewers directly on the grates and grill each side for about 2–3 minutes until they turn opaque pink and curl slightly.
- If broiling, preheat your broiler to high and arrange the shrimp on a lined baking sheet. Broil for 2–3 minutes per side, watching closely.
- Once cooked, drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the skewers and optionally add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers while warm with your favorite sides or as appetizers.
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