Barbecue shrimp is a fun dish that combines juicy shrimp with a tangy barbecue sauce. It’s packed with flavor and just perfect for a grill party!
The best part? You can prep it quickly and enjoy it with friends or family. I love to serve it with some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty sauce—yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture. You can go with shell-on for added flavor or peeled for convenience. If shrimp isn’t available, try using scallops or firm fish cubes instead.
Unsalted Butter: This is key for the richness of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter instead.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the dish. If you’re avoiding this ingredient, a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar can make a suitable swap.
Hot Sauce: The type of hot sauce depends on your spice preference! I like using Tabasco, but feel free to substitute with your favorite or even chili flakes for a milder heat.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a fresh, vibrant touch. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or green onions can work nicely as substitutes.
How Do I Make Sure the Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky; overcooked shrimp can turn chewy. Here’s how to get it perfect:
- Start with shrimp that are pink and translucent. They should curl into a C shape when they’re done.
- Cook shrimp in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t walk away; keep an eye on them!
- If they start to look opaque and firm up, they are ready to come off the heat.
Resting the shrimp for a moment after cooking helps retain the juices, ensuring bite after bite is delicious!
How to Make Barbecue Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (shell on or off, depending on preference)
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
- Cocktail sauce, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This barbecue shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You can have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. If you want to add extra flavor, you can leave the tails on; it looks nice too!
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, heat up the unsalted butter over medium heat. Wait until it’s fully melted and starts to bubble just a little.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to become fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown—that can make it taste bitter.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, hot sauce, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the sauce is nicely combined.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Make sure they are well coated with the sauce. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque. Give them a gentle stir as they cook to ensure even flavors.
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp for a fresh touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the barbecue shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side. If you like, you can also add cocktail sauce for dipping. Enjoy as an appetizer or pair it with crusty bread or rice for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can thaw them quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Should I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, start with less hot sauce and taste as you go. You can also add cayenne pepper for a kick or omit it entirely for a mild dish!
What Should I Serve with Barbecue Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or steamed rice for a complete meal. You can also serve it over pasta or alongside roasted vegetables for a nutritious option.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover barbecue shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, avoiding overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.