The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the grill, when the intoxicating scent of savory garlic butter wafted through the air, drawing everyone to the backyard. These Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers are about to become your go-to dish for summer gatherings, combining effortless preparation with tantalizing flavors. With their juicy, perfectly grilled shrimp and that indulgent garlicky touch, these skewers are not just a quick meal; they’re a celebration of all things BBQ. Plus, they’re gluten-free and low-carb, making them a crowd-pleaser for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful dish? Grab your skewers, and let’s fire up that grill!
Why are Garlic Butter Skewers a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: These Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers deliver a heavenly combination of rich garlic butter and succulent shrimp, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these skewers sizzling on your grill in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous BBQ parties.
Low-Carb Goodness: Not only are these skewers gluten-free, but they also fit seamlessly into low-carb diets, making them suitable for everyone at your table.
Versatile Delight: Mix things up by substituting shrimp with scallops or firm fish for a delightful twist, allowing you to personalize this dish to your taste.
Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served as appetizers or the main event, these skewers always impress – invite your friends, put on some music, and enjoy a fun-filled night!
For additional flavor, you might want to explore these Garlic Butter Steak or Garlic Butter Beef recipes for more delicious ideas!
Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
For the Skewers
- Shrimp – Fresh or thawed shrimp is ideal; make sure they are patted dry to absorb the garlic butter seasoning.
- Wooden Skewers – Soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill; you can also use metal skewers for durability.
For the Garlic Butter Mixture
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor; substitute with ghee or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
- Garlic – Fresh crushed garlic provides an aromatic punch; feel free to increase the amount for a stronger flavor.
- Smoked Paprika – This spice adds depth and color; if you lack it, regular paprika with a pinch of cayenne works well.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; season to taste, ensuring they match your dietary preferences.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A great way to add a kick of heat if you enjoy a little spice!
These Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers promise a delightful culinary journey that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Step 1: Prep Skewers
Begin by soaking your wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This important step prevents them from catching fire on the grill. While they soak, gather your shrimp and ensure they are patted dry to help better absorb the rich garlic butter seasoning you’ll be making.
Step 2: Make Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat until fully liquid. Add in crushed garlic and smoked paprika, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Keep this delicious garlic butter warm, perhaps by placing it over the very low heat setting, as you’ll need it for basting later on your Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Step 3: Thread Shrimp
Take the soaked skewers and carefully thread the shrimp onto them, making sure to go through the thick part of the shrimp to hold them securely. Avoid threading through the tails, as this can cause the shrimp to spin during grilling. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, ensuring they’re close but not overcrowded for even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, which is around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C). To ensure the shrimp don’t stick, lightly brush the grill grates with oil before placing your skewers down. A well-preheated grill will give the shrimp that perfect sear and help lock in the flavors of the garlic butter.
Step 5: Grill Shrimp
Place the shrimp skewers directly on the grill and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. As they grill, frequently baste them with the warm garlic butter using a brush. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn opaque and curl up slightly, indicating they are juicy and perfectly cooked.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Once grilled to perfection, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Serve these mouthwatering Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers immediately with wedges of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delightful touch. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and aroma that will surely impress everyone at your gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers are perfect for meal prep! You can prep the garlic butter mixture and marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by combining the melted butter with crushed garlic and smoked paprika, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can thread the shrimp onto skewers and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Just remember to cover them well to prevent drying out. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your grill and baste the skewers with the garlicky butter before grilling for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This way, you’ll enjoy flavorful, juicy skewers with minimal last-minute effort!
Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers Variations
Feel free to customize these flavorful skewers with your own creative twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with ghee or a plant-based butter for a creamy taste without dairy. Enjoy the same rich flavor without any bloating!
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Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or firm white fish like salmon or halibut. Each brings a unique taste while maintaining that delicious garlic butter essence.
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Low-FODMAP: Use garlic-infused oil instead of fresh garlic for a mild flavor that suits a low-FODMAP diet. Your garlic cravings will still get satisfied!
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Flavor Boost: Add zest by incorporating freshly squeezed lemon juice into the garlic butter. This will elevate your skewers with a refreshing brightness.
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Spicy Kick: Include extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with a spicy garlic sauce instead of the standard butter. The heat will awaken your palate!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill into your butter for an aromatic twist. The herbs will add a refreshing burst of flavor to each bite.
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Citrus Delight: Before grilling, marinate shrimp in a mixture of lime juice and tequila for a zesty flavor profile. A touch of the tropics will transport you straight to the beach!
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Grill Marks Fun: Instead of skewers, place shrimp directly on a grill basket for that gorgeous smoky flavor and mesmerizing grill marks. Less assembly, more enjoyment!
Want to explore other tantalizing flavor options? Check out these mouthwatering Garlic Shrimp Spinach and Cajun Grilled Chicken recipes for more inspiration to ignite your culinary adventures!
What to Serve with Savory Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Savor the moment where juicy shrimp and delightful sides come together to create an unforgettable meal experience.
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Bright Grilled Jalapeño Corn Salad: This fresh and zesty salad brings a crunch and a touch of sweetness that balances the rich garlic butter flavor. The smoky notes of grilled corn enhance the overall BBQ vibe.
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Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette cleanses the palate. Its crispness contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: Serve this toasty treat alongside your skewers for a heftier meal. The buttery garlic flavor echoes the shrimp and provides a satisfying texture.
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Herbed Quinoa: Full of protein and texture, this fluffy quinoa with herbs adds a nutritious twist. It absorbs the garlic butter drippings and perfectly complements the shrimp’s flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted till caramelized adds earthy depth to the meal. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp skewers.
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Chilled White Wine: Enjoy a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Grigio, whose acidity cuts through the richness of the garlic butter and elevates the entire experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, finish the meal with this refreshing treat. It cleanses the palate and adds a sweet, zesty note to round off a delightful BBQ feast.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they grill. Overcooking will make them tough—look for a slight curl and opaque color.
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Baste Frequently: Basting with the warm garlic butter during grilling keeps the shrimp moist and enhances their flavor.
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Uniform Sizing: Try to use shrimp that are similar in size for even cooking. This ensures that all the shrimp cook at the same rate.
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Experiment with Marinades: For extra flavor complexity, marinate shrimp in a mix of garlic, lemon juice, and a splash of white wine before grilling.
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Alternate Seafoods: Transform your Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers by substituting shrimp with scallops or firm fish for a delicious variation.
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Use Metal Skewers: Consider using metal skewers for a reusable option; they can endure the heat better and produce a more even cook.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of garlic butter to retain moisture.
Freezer: If you have extra skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked shrimp skewers out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. They should be refrigerated promptly after serving.
Reheating: When reheating frozen skewers, a gentle approach is best. Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or grill on low heat until heated through, maintaining that delicious garlic butter flavor.
Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh or thawed shrimp are ideal for this recipe. Just make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning; this helps the garlic butter stick and enhances the flavor. If you’re unsure, go for shrimp that are pink and firm, avoiding any with a strong fishy odor.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, I recommend a skillet with a splash of garlic butter to prevent them from drying out and to keep that delicious flavor intact.
Can I freeze the skewers?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then gently bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or grill over low heat until heated through, maintaining that garlicky goodness.
What if my shrimp is tough after grilling?
Very! If your shrimp turns out tough, it’s likely overcooked. To avoid this, watch the cooking time closely; aim for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and just curled. Cooking shrimp until they are opaque is key—look for a slight curl, but don’t let them get too tight!
Are these skewers suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers are gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with ghee or a plant-based butter. Please always double-check labels for any potential allergens if serving guests with specific dietary needs.
How do I know when the skewers are done?
Perfectly cooked shrimp should be opaque and slightly curled without being too tight. The general rule of thumb is to grill them for 2-3 minutes on each side, and they’ll be ready when they’ve turned from translucent to a lovely pink, making them not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes!
Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers for Flavorful BBQ Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Melt unsalted butter over low heat, add crushed garlic and smoked paprika, stirring for 2-3 minutes.
- Thread shrimp onto soaked skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer.
- Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly brush the grates with oil.
- Grill shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, basting with warm garlic butter.
- Remove from grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
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