Save Garlic butter shrimp skewers are my go-to when I want something fast yet feels restaurant-worthy The flavor-packed marinade comes together in minutes and the grill delivers juicy shrimp with smoky edges Every time I make these they disappear before I can even sit down
I first put these skewers out at a backyard birthday and they were wiped out twice as fast as the sliders Shrimp and garlic butter are an unbeatable match that always has people reaching for more
Ingredients
- Large raw shrimp: The star for plump and tender texture Choose wild-caught when possible for sweetness
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and gives a subtle richness Use fresh cold-pressed for best flavor
- Kosher salt: Lifts the flavors and seasons evenly Go for flaky salt if you have it
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a kick and balances the richness Grind right before using for fragrance
- Unsalted butter: The base for the garlic sauce Pick European-style for extra creamy texture
- Garlic: Finely minced for deep savory punch Use fresh never jarred
- Fresh parsley: Offers freshness and color Flat-leaf kind is best
- Lemon juice: Brightens everything up Squeeze your own for pure zing
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds gentle heat Use only if you want a hint of spice
- Lemon zest: Packs big citrus aroma Grate on the spot with a microplane
- Lemon wedges: For extra squeeze of acidity at the table
Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers soak them fully in water for at least twenty minutes to keep them from burning on the grill Metal skewers can be used as is
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a large bowl toss shrimp thoroughly with olive oil salt and black pepper Massage with your hands to ensure even coating Set aside while gathering the other ingredients
- Mix the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a separate small bowl whisk melted butter with minced garlic chopped parsley lemon juice crushed red pepper flakes if using and lemon zest Stir until well combined and aromatic
- Thread the Shrimp:
- Pierce each shrimp through the thick and thin end onto the skewers with about four or five shrimp per stick Crowding them slightly helps them stay juicy yet flat for even grilling
- Baste with Garlic Butter:
- Brush a generous layer of the garlic butter sauce over both sides of the skewered shrimp Reserve some sauce to brush on at the very end and for dipping if desired
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Place the skewers onto a preheated medium high grill or grill pan Cook for about two to three minutes on the first side until the shrimp start to turn pink and lift easily Flip and cook another two to three minutes until opaque and lightly charred Do not walk away shrimp cooks fast
- Finish and Serve:
- Move shrimp skewers onto a platter Brush with the last of your reserved garlic butter Serve immediately with lemon wedges scattered around
Save The way the garlic butter clings to the shrimp is my favorite part Nothing beats the aroma wafting up as these hit the grill One summer my friends insisted I teach them the recipe right there on the patio after their first bite
Storage Tips
Store leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat gently in a skillet over medium low heat with a spoonful of extra garlic butter to keep them moist For longer storage peel the shrimp from the skewers and freeze in a single layer then transfer to a zip top bag They reheat best straight from frozen in a warm pan
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy free twist use olive oil or a quality plant based butter instead of traditional butter If you do not have fresh parsley try finely chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of chopped chives For a spicier version add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter
Serving Suggestions
Serve these skewers as a main with fluffly rice and roasted vegetables Or pile them over salad greens with an extra squeeze of lemon For a hearty appetizer pair them with crusty baguette that s perfect for mopping up leftover garlic butter
Cultural and Historical Context
Shrimp skewers have deep roots in American cookouts where shellfish and grills always find a way to meet Garlic butter reflects classic surf side seafood shacks along the coasts This version channels both casual summer parties and celebratory winter feasts
Seasonal Adaptations
For summer grilling swap in fresh chopped basil instead of parsley and add cherry tomatoes between shrimp In cooler months use a grill pan indoors and finish under the broiler Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the butter for extra warmth Use orange zest in place of lemon in winter for a sweeter citrus twist
Quick notes to help you succeed
Shrimp burns fast so stay close and flip promptly Treat yourself with a double batch of garlic butter for drizzling If using frozen shrimp thaw fully and pat dry before marinating
Success Stories
My neighbor always asks for these for her graduation parties and I once traded a batch to a friend for a basket of home grown tomatoes These are a guaranteed hit for both special occasions and easy weeknight meals
Freezer Meal Conversion
Thread the raw shrimp onto skewers then arrange them on a lined baking sheet Freeze until solid and transfer to a freezer bag When ready to party lay directly on the grill from frozen and brush with freshly made garlic butter while grilling
Save These skewers are fantastic served hot off the grill They bring a burst of summery flavor and are always a welcome addition to any meal
Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- → Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Yes, try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or onions alongside the shrimp for extra flavor and color.
- → What is the best way to tell when shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked through when they turn opaque and pink, and curl slightly into a 'C' shape.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative for the butter?
Substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
- → What side dishes pair well with shrimp skewers?
Rice, fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread complement these skewers nicely.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
You can marinate and thread shrimp ahead, but grill just before serving for best texture and flavor.