Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter Sauce

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter Sauce is the perfect combination of savory, slightly spicy, and zesty flavors. This dish is an easy-to-make, flavorful crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for outdoor gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. Whether you’re an experienced grill master or a beginner, these shrimp skewers come together in no time, offering a deliciously satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter Sauce are a delightful treat packed with flavor. The shrimp are perfectly seasoned and grilled to smoky, juicy perfection, while the garlic butter sauce adds a rich, aromatic finish. The garlic butter sauce balances the spice from the red pepper flakes and the tang from the fresh lemon juice, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. Best of all, it’s a quick and easy dish that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

2. Thread Shrimp: Thread the shrimp onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp.

Grill the Shrimp:

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Grill Shrimp: Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.

Serve:

1. Serve the shrimp skewers: Serve the grilled shrimp skewers with the garlic butter sauce on the side or drizzled on top.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Grill Time: 6-8 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce: For those who enjoy more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.

• Herb-Infused Sauce: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter sauce for an earthy flavor.

• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the shrimp with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover shrimp and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave gently in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Reheat the garlic butter sauce separately in the microwave or on the stove.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp are done grilling?

Shrimp cook quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also have a slight char around the edges. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Just reheat it gently before using.

How long should I soak the skewers?

Soak the wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Can I use other types of seafood for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe works well with scallops, lobster tails, or fish fillets. Adjust grilling times accordingly based on the seafood type.

Can I make this recipe on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, you can use a stovetop grill pan to cook the shrimp. Just heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side.

How can I make the shrimp more flavorful?

You can marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes before grilling to allow the flavors to meld. Add herbs or spices like paprika or thyme for extra depth.

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes to the shrimp for even cooking.

What can I serve with these shrimp skewers?

These shrimp skewers pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a side of garlic bread.

Can I cook these shrimp on the oven or broiler?

Yes, you can broil the shrimp in the oven for about 2-3 minutes per side or bake them at 400°F for 6-8 minutes until cooked through.

Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter Sauce are a simple yet elegant dish that combines tender, juicy shrimp with a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or making a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With the versatility to adjust the seasoning to your liking and the ease of preparation, these shrimp skewers will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.