There’s something irresistible about plump, juicy shrimp sizzling on the grill, soaking up smoky, tangy, or spicy BBQ flavors. Whether you’re firing up the barbecue for a laid-back weekend cookout or just craving a quick, flavor-packed meal, shrimp is the perfect protein—fast-cooking, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser.
In this roundup, we’ve gathered 12 finger-licking-good BBQ shrimp recipes that will have you reaching for the skewers every chance you get. Picture garlicky, butter-basted shrimp caramelizing over an open flame, sticky-sweet honey-chipotle glazed shrimp with a kick, or Cajun-spiced grilled shrimp with a smoky char that’ll transport you straight to the Gulf Coast. From simple 15-minute marinades to bold, restaurant-worthy dishes, these recipes prove that shrimp is the ultimate weekend grilling hero.
We’ve also included tips for picking the freshest shrimp, nailing the perfect grill marks, and pairing them with the right sides—think cool, crunchy slaw, grilled corn, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. So whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just treating yourself to a delicious weeknight upgrade, these BBQ shrimp recipes are guaranteed to make your weekends (and weeknights!) tastier.
Spicy Cajun BBQ Shrimp
Spicy Cajun BBQ Shrimp is a vibrant dish that brings the heat and flavor of Cajun cuisine right to your grill. With just the right amount of spice, these shrimp are perfect for a weekend barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner. The dish is easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.
The bold flavors of garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper combine to create a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for more. Served hot off the grill, this shrimp can be enjoyed on their own or tossed into salads, tacos, or pasta for added zest.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from the grill, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Mango BBQ Shrimp Salad
Get ready to enjoy a refreshing and vibrant Mango BBQ Shrimp Salad! This dish combines juicy shrimp with sweet mango and a zesty BBQ dressing, making it an ideal meal for warm weekends. It’s light, flavorful, and super easy to whip up, perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp, creating a delightful balance. Tossed with fresh greens and a tangy dressing, this salad bursts with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a tasty lunch, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, diced mango, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add the grilled shrimp and drizzle with BBQ sauce. Toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Honey Lime BBQ Shrimp
Honey Lime BBQ Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the zesty brightness of lime. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but is also quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weekend barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner. The shrimp becomes tender and juicy, beautifully coated in a sticky glaze that pairs wonderfully with rice or grilled veggies.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors will make your taste buds dance, and the best part is that it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the marinade and let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re opaque and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve over cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious Honey Lime BBQ Shrimp!
Chipotle BBQ Shrimp Tacos
These Chipotle BBQ Shrimp Tacos are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, packed with flavor and a kick of heat. The shrimp are marinated in a smoky chipotle sauce that enhances their natural sweetness, making every bite a delight. Combining these spicy shrimp with fresh toppings and warm tortillas creates a delightful meal that’s easy to whip up any weekend.
Perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, these tacos are simple to make and sure to impress. Just a few ingredients and a little bit of time are all you need to bring vibrant flavors to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup chipotle BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, chipotle BBQ sauce, and olive oil. Toss to coat and let marinate for 15-30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are pink and opaque.
- Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos: place cooked shrimp on each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage, feta cheese, and cilantro. Add avocado slices.
- Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish!
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is a fresh and zesty dish that’s perfect for your weekend BBQ. The combination of citrus and herbs creates a light yet flavorful experience that highlights the shrimp’s natural sweetness. This recipe is not just delicious but also simple to whip up, making it a go-to choice for any gathering.
The shrimp are marinated in a mix of lemon juice, garlic, and various herbs, allowing them to soak up all those vibrant flavors. Grilling them adds a slight smokiness that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes. Serve these shrimp as an appetizer or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and pink.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp
This Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seafood with a burst of flavor. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory taste that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for weekend barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
The shrimp are grilled to perfection, giving them a slightly smoky flavor while keeping them tender and juicy. Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon and some chopped parsley for a refreshing touch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the garlic butter mixture.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Pineapple Ginger BBQ Shrimp Skewers
Get ready for a burst of tropical flavor with these Pineapple Ginger BBQ Shrimp Skewers! The combination of sweet pineapple and zesty ginger creates a delightful marinade that complements the shrimp perfectly. This recipe is not only delicious but also super simple to whip up, making it perfect for your weekend BBQ plans.
These skewers are sure to impress your family and friends with their vibrant taste and colorful presentation. The grill gives the shrimp a smoky char while the pineapple caramelizes, adding to the overall flavor. Let’s dive into making these tasty treats!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, honey, olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the Skewers: Alternate threading the marinated shrimp and pineapple chunks onto the skewers.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Skewers: Cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the grill and serve immediately with extra pineapple on the side if desired.
Tropical Coconut BBQ Shrimp
This Tropical Coconut BBQ Shrimp recipe brings a burst of flavor that’s perfect for weekend grilling. Combining the sweetness of coconut with a hint of spice, these shrimp are sure to be a hit at your next cookout. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them a great choice for both experienced chefs and beginners alike.
The marinade infuses the shrimp with tropical vibes, while the grilling adds a nice char. Serve them with fresh fruit for a complete and refreshing meal that feels like a mini-vacation on your plate!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well blended.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately, paired with your favorite tropical fruits.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Shrimp
Sweet and spicy BBQ shrimp is the perfect dish for those who love a kick in their seafood. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with a zesty BBQ sauce that has just the right amount of heat. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a weekend cookout or a casual weeknight dinner.
The balance of sweet and spicy flavors creates a delightful taste experience that pairs well with rice or grilled veggies. Plus, you can have it ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, hot sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!
Bourbon BBQ Shrimp
Bourbon BBQ shrimp is a delightful twist on classic barbecue flavors. The combination of sweet bourbon, tangy barbecue sauce, and juicy shrimp creates a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for weekend gatherings or any night you want to impress your family and friends.
The shrimp soak up the bourbon’s sweetness and the smoky elements of the sauce, resulting in a dish that’s packed with flavor. Pair it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you have a meal that’s sure to become a weekend favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the bourbon, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and mix well. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Mediterranean BBQ Shrimp
This Mediterranean BBQ shrimp recipe brings a burst of flavor to your weekend meals. Infused with zesty herbs and spices, the dish offers a delightful combination of savory and tangy tastes that will impress your guests and family alike.
Easy to prepare, this recipe features juicy shrimp marinated in olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs before hitting the grill. Perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner, it pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies and dips. You’ll want to make this regularly!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with lemon wedges, and enjoy your Mediterranean BBQ shrimp!
Smoky Paprika BBQ Shrimp
Smoky Paprika BBQ Shrimp is a flavor-packed dish that brings a delightful twist to your weekend grill sessions. The combination of smoky paprika and succulent shrimp creates a savory experience that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is quick to prepare and is sure to please everyone at the table.
The shrimp are infused with a rich smoky flavor, complemented by the warmth of paprika and a hint of garlic. Whether served as an appetizer or the main event, this recipe is all about bold flavors that don’t take much time to create. Grab your skewers and let’s dive into this delicious BBQ delight!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper together.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using skewers, thread the marinated shrimp onto them.
- Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Grilled shrimp is one of those dishes that feels indulgent but comes together in minutes, making it the ultimate weekend (or anytime) meal. With these 12 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy smoky, succulent shrimp hot off the grill. So grab your apron, fire up the BBQ, and get ready to make shrimp the star of your next cookout—because once you try these recipes, you’ll want to make them all summer long!
