Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bold, smoky, and packed with flavor, this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe is a must-try! Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking on the stovetop, these juicy, succulent shrimp come together in just minutes, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.
Unlike traditional grilled shrimp, barbecue shrimp is coated in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks. The result? A dish that’s sticky, smoky, and irresistibly delicious. Plus, you can easily customize the heat level, making it as mild or spicy as you like.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five simple steps to making restaurant-quality barbecue shrimp at home. You’ll also learn pro tips for perfect texture, delicious variations, and answers to common cooking questions. Let’s fire up the grill and get started!
What is Barbecue Shrimp?
Barbecue shrimp is a flavor-packed seafood dish that’s known for its smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. Unlike traditional grilled shrimp, this dish is coated in a bold barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks, giving it a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Is Barbecue Shrimp the Same as Grilled Shrimp?
Not exactly! While grilled shrimp is often seasoned with dry rubs or marinades, barbecue shrimp is basted with a rich, smoky sauce while cooking. This creates a deep, caramelized flavor that makes it stand out.
New Orleans-Style vs. Classic Barbecue Shrimp
There are two popular versions of barbecue shrimp:
✔ Classic Barbecue Shrimp – Shrimp grilled or pan-seared with a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce.
✔ New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp – A buttery, spicy shrimp dish cooked in Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and Creole seasoning (not actually grilled).
Whether you’re making grilled BBQ shrimp or the Louisiana-style buttery version, this dish is packed with bold flavors and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients for Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
To make the perfect Barbecue Shrimp Recipe, you’ll need a blend of fresh shrimp, bold spices, and a rich barbecue sauce. Here’s everything you need:
🔹 Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled & deveined, tails on) – Juicy and tender shrimp absorb the smoky barbecue flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter – Helps coat the shrimp for a perfect sear.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce – Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances the smoky, savory taste.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Adds a touch of freshness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – Boosts the smoky depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – For a spicy kick.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
🔹 Optional Additions:
✔ Honey or brown sugar – For a hint of sweetness.
✔ Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth.
✔ Hot sauce – If you like it extra spicy!
🔹 Best Shrimp for Barbecue Shrimp
For the best results, use large or jumbo shrimp. They stay plump and juicy while cooking and don’t overcook too quickly.
🔹 Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
✔ No barbecue sauce? Mix ketchup, honey, vinegar, and smoked paprika for a quick homemade BBQ glaze.
✔ Dairy-free? Use olive oil instead of butter.
✔ Low-carb/keto? Choose a sugar-free barbecue sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
Making this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe is quick and easy! Follow these five simple steps to get perfectly juicy, smoky, and flavorful shrimp every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by running them under cold water for a few minutes.
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel—this helps them absorb the flavors better.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Step 2: Make the Barbecue Sauce (If using homemade sauce)
- In a small bowl, mix barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and honey (or brown sugar).
- Stir well until fully combined.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp (Grill or Stovetop Method)
🔸 Grilling Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers (optional) for easy flipping.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with barbecue sauce until they are opaque and slightly charred.
🔸 Stovetop Method:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side, basting with the barbecue sauce as they cook.
Step 4: Coat with Barbecue Sauce
- Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them in extra barbecue sauce for a sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Let them rest for 2 minutes so the flavors fully absorb.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the shrimp and garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or extra sauce.
- Serve immediately with grilled corn, coleslaw, or warm garlic bread.
Tips & Variations for the Best Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
Want to make this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe even better? Try these expert tips and fun variations to customize the flavor to your liking!
✨ Pro Tips for Perfect Barbecue Shrimp
✔ Use Large or Jumbo Shrimp – They stay plump and juicy and don’t overcook as easily.
✔ Pat Shrimp Dry Before Cooking – Helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming.
✔ Don’t Overcook – Shrimp cook fast! 2-3 minutes per side is all they need.
✔ Marinate for More Flavor – Let the shrimp sit in barbecue sauce for 15-30 minutes before grilling.
✔ Baste While Cooking – Brushing on extra sauce while cooking adds rich, caramelized flavor.
🔥 Fun Variations of Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
✔ Spicy Cajun BBQ Shrimp – Add ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning and a splash of hot sauce.
✔ Honey Garlic BBQ Shrimp – Mix in 1 tablespoon honey and extra garlic for a sweet-savory twist.
✔ Smoky Chipotle BBQ Shrimp – Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into your barbecue sauce.
✔ New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp – Skip the grill and cook shrimp in buttery, Worcestershire-spiced sauce instead.
✔ No Grill? No Problem! – Make this recipe on a stovetop grill pan, oven, or air fryer for the same great flavors.
For a bold Southern twist, try serving this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe with our Cheesy Jambalaya Recipe. The creamy, spicy jambalaya pairs perfectly with the smoky, caramelized shrimp, creating a dish full of deep Louisiana flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Barbecue Shrimp Recipe
Here are some common questions about making the perfect Barbecue Shrimp Recipe, along with expert answers to help you cook with confidence!
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by placing them in a colander under cold running water for 5-10 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure the best texture.
2. What’s the best type of shrimp to use?
For the juiciest results, use large or jumbo shrimp. They stay plump and tender while cooking and won’t dry out as quickly as smaller shrimp.
3. Can I bake Barbecue Shrimp instead of grilling?
Yes! To bake:
✔ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
✔ Place seasoned shrimp on a lined baking sheet.
✔ Brush with barbecue sauce and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. How do I store and reheat Barbecue Shrimp?
✔ Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat: Warm shrimp in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid overcooking!
5. Can I make this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe in an air fryer?
Yes! To air fry:
✔ Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
✔ Place shrimp in a single layer in the basket.
✔ Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
6. What sides go well with Barbecue Shrimp?
✔ Grilled corn on the cob – A classic BBQ favorite.
✔ Garlic butter rice – A perfect pairing for the smoky shrimp.
✔ Coleslaw – A cool, crunchy contrast to the rich barbecue sauce.
✔ Crusty bread – Ideal for soaking up extra sauce!
Looking for the ultimate Southern meal? Pair this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe with our Jambalaya Mix Guide to explore different ways to make an authentic, flavorful jambalaya that complements the smoky shrimp.
7. Can I make a sugar-free or low-carb version of this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe?
Yes! Simply use a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
8. How long should I marinate the shrimp?
For maximum flavor, marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acid in the sauce can break down the shrimp’s texture.
Conclusion
This Barbecue Shrimp Recipe is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a dish that’s bold, smoky, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, using a stovetop pan, or even baking or air-frying, these shrimp turn out juicy, caramelized, and absolutely delicious.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality seafood dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts, quick dinners, or special gatherings. Plus, with easy variations like Cajun-style, honey garlic, or smoky chipotle BBQ shrimp, you can customize the flavors to suit your taste.
If you loved this Barbecue Shrimp Recipe, don’t forget to check out our Cheesy Jambalaya Recipe for another crowd-pleasing dish packed with bold flavors!
👉 Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let us know in the comments: What’s your favorite way to enjoy BBQ shrimp? Share your tips, variations, or even a picture of your dish! 🍤🔥