Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are tasty and easy to make. Juicy shrimp are coated in a buttery garlic sauce and grilled on skewers for a perfect summer meal.
I like to sneak in a little extra garlic—who doesn’t love that smell? My family laughs when I keep snacking on the shrimp before dinner!
Serve these with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh touch. They cook quickly, so I always keep an eye on the grill to prevent overcooking.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. I recommend mincing it finely for even distribution. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works but less intense taste. Always start with a bit and adjust to your preference.
Butter: Unsalted butter provides richness and helps coat the shrimp nicely. For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or olive oil, which add their own subtle flavors. I like the creamy texture butter gives, but oil is a good substitute.
Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp for best skewering and presentation. Peeled and deveined shrimp cook quickly and stay tender. Frozen works well, just thaw thoroughly and pat dry for even cooking. Fresh is great but not essential.
Herbs & Spices: Paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne add warmth and spice. I always start light and taste. Dried herbs like parsley or thyme can replace fresh if needed. They hold flavor well and are easy to keep on hand.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness to the dish. Freshly squeezed lemon is best for zing, but bottled lemon juice is a quick alternative. I often sprinkle it after cooking for a fresh burst of flavor.
How do I skewer shrimp without tearing the meat?
Use metal or sturdy bamboo skewers (soaked if bamboo). Thread the shrimp lengthwise to prevent bursting. Avoid squeezing too tightly. Thread one at a time, leaving some space for even heat and easy flipping during grilling.
- Start from the tail end, leaving some tail sticking out.
- Push the skewer through the thick part of the shrimp, then out the other side.
- Repeat for each piece, keeping them snug but not squished.
- Handle gently when turning to avoid tearing the shrimp flesh.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Other
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
30 minutes total: 10 minutes prep, 15 minutes grilling, 5 minutes resting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes to marinade.
2. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s clean and lightly oiled.
3. Thread the Shrimp
Skewer 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer, spacing them evenly. Repeat for all shrimp.
4. Grill the Skewers
Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
5. Make the Garlic Butter
Mix melted butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley in a small bowl.
6. Serve
Remove skewers from the grill. Brush with garlic butter and serve warm. Enjoy!
