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Flavorful Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter Glaze

grilled shrimp skewers - featured image

These grilled shrimp skewers are quick and easy to make, featuring a rich garlic butter glaze that perfectly complements the smoky char from the grill. Ideal for summer BBQs, they deliver bold flavor with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen shrimp)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if wooden to prevent burning)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Toss them in 2 tablespoons olive oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Let them sit while you prepare the glaze.
  2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave it in short bursts until just melted. Stir in minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and whisk in lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  3. Thread 4-5 shrimp per skewer, piercing through the thick part near the tail and then again near the head end to keep them secure. Arrange skewers on a tray as you go.
  4. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Make sure grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
  5. Place skewers on the grill. After 2-3 minutes, brush generously with the garlic butter glaze, then flip and glaze the other side. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred at edges. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Once off the grill, brush the skewers again with any leftover glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Pat shrimp dry thoroughly to ensure good sear and avoid steaming. Brush garlic butter glaze multiple times during grilling for layered flavor but avoid drowning the shrimp. Watch shrimp closely to avoid overcooking; they are done when pink and curled into a loose ‘C’ shape.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled shrimp skewers, garlic butter glaze, summer BBQ, easy shrimp recipe, seafood skewers, quick dinner