Name: Grilled Lemon Shrimp: A Zesty Delight in Just 10 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Shrimp/Prawns (raw, peeled, and deveined); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any neutral oil); 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher salt recommended); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted); 2 cloves Garlic (freshly chopped); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (fresh juice preferred); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (or plain paprika); 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional); 1 Lemon Wedges (for garnish); 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

As I stood over the sizzling grill, the aroma of shrimp wafted through the air, igniting memories of summer barbecues and shared laughter. This Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter captures that essence perfectly, combining the simplicity of a quick 10-minute recipe with the indulgence of smoky, mouthwatering flavors. The shrimp are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, all bathed in a luscious garlic butter that elevates any meal, from a leisurely weekend gathering to a lightning-fast weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for everyone at the table. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this easy, show-stopping dish? Let’s dive in!

Why will you love Grilled Lemon Shrimp?

Simplicity at its finest: This dish takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it an effortless addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Bursting with flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates an indulgent yet refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with salads or crusty bread.

Versatile and crowd-pleasing: Perfect for summer BBQs or cozy gatherings, you can easily adjust the seasoning for a milder or spicier kick.

Health-conscious choice: This meal is gluten-free and rich in protein, ideal for those following a low-carb diet.

For a delightful finish, serve it alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread to soak up the extra Lemon Garlic Butter. Don’t forget to check out our Mini Lemon Cheesecakes for a perfectly sweet complement!

Grilled Lemon Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp/Prawns – Choose raw, peeled, and deveined for optimal flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil – Aids in cooking; substitute with any neutral oil if preferred.
• Salt – Enhances the shrimp’s natural taste; use kosher salt for best results.

For the Lemon Garlic Butter
• Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy base; control the saltiness more effectively.
• Garlic – Freshly chopped adds wonderful aromatics; avoid using a mincer for crispy texture.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; fresh juice is ideal to balance butter richness.

For Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses smoky flavor and color; plain paprika can be used as a substitute.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adjustable heat level; omit for a milder flavor or use more for spice.
• Garlic Powder – Optional for deepening garlic flavor; can be replaced with more fresh garlic if desired.

For Serving
• Lemon Wedges – Enhances freshness and adds visual appeal; optional but delightful with additional zest.
• Fresh Parsley – Offers a herbaceous note to garnish; cilantro is a great alternative too.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Lemon Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your BBQ grill to high, ensuring it’s ready for cooking. Brush the grill grates with a generous amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. As the grill heats up, you’ll notice it begins to shimmer, signaling that it’s hot enough for creating beautifully grilled lemon shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter
In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the garlic turns lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and squeeze in the juice of half a fresh lemon, mixing well to create a luscious garlic butter sauce.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp
Rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then mix until each shrimp is evenly coated, setting the stage for your flavorful grilled lemon shrimp.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
Once your grill is hot, arrange the seasoned shrimp directly on the grates. Grill for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn a lovely pink color and begin to char slightly. Carefully turn each shrimp over with tongs and grill for another 2 minutes until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as perfect shrimp should be firm and juicy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the grilled lemon shrimp to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm lemon garlic butter generously over the top, allowing it to soak in. For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, capturing the vibrant flavors of summer in every bite.

Expert Tips for Grilled Lemon Shrimp

Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Patting the shrimp dry ensures they achieve that desired crispiness on the grill, preventing any sogginess.
Season Last Minute: Avoid seasoning your shrimp too early; this draws moisture out and can lead to less juicy shrimp when grilled.
Use Skewers for Small Shrimp: If you’re using smaller shrimp, threading them onto skewers is a great trick to keep them from slipping through the grill grates.
Watch Cooking Time: Monitor the grill closely! Overcooked shrimp turn tough and rubbery, so keep it to about 2 minutes per side.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust your spices! Want a bolder flavor? Increase the cayenne for a spicier kick in your grilled lemon shrimp.

What to Serve with Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter

Pairing your delicious grilled shrimp with the perfect sides will transform your meal into a memorable dining experience that evokes warmth and comfort.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots, this crunchy side adds a cool contrast to the heat from the grilled shrimp, making each bite delightfully balanced.
Garlic Bread: Toasted slices slathered in garlic butter soak up the luscious sauce from the shrimp, complementing the meal perfectly for those cozy evenings.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus brings vibrant color and texture, enhancing the dish’s healthiness while providing a smoky hint that echoes the BBQ essence.
Citrus Quinoa Salad: Light and zesty, this nutty salad has bright flavors from lemon and herbs, harmonizing beautifully with the grilled shrimp for an enticing addition to your plate.
Roasted Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these wedges are excellent for dipping in leftover garlic butter, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Chilled White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink made with a splash of soda and your favorite white wine elevates the experience, adding a touch of elegance while balancing the buttery richness.

For a sweet finish, serve with a light lemon sorbet that mirrors the refreshing notes of the shrimp, leaving your palate clean and satisfied.

Grilled Lemon Shrimp Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delicious grilled lemon shrimp recipe and make it your own!

Scallop Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops for a unique texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as scallops cook quickly!
Fish Alternative: For a different twist, use firm white fish like cod or halibut. The lemon garlic butter will enhance their mild flavors beautifully.
Herb Mix: Instead of parsley, try fresh dill or chives for a refreshing herbaceous note. Both bring a delightful twist to the final presentation.
Spicy Zing: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra punch. Adjust to your heat preference, and let the flavor party begin!
Smoky Seasoning: Try a Cajun seasoning in place of smoked paprika for a bolder, spicier effect. It will bring a whole new depth to your grilled shrimp!
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate orange or lime juice along with the lemon juice for a vibrant citrus blend that’s sure to brighten your dish.
Garlic Lovers: If you can’t get enough garlic, sprinkle in some roasted garlic or add garlic cloves directly to the butter sauce. This will create an even richer flavor profile.
Lemon Butter Elegance: Elevate the lemon garlic butter by whisking in a touch of white wine—this will lift the dish to a gourmet level. Perfect for impressing guests!

By playing with these variations, you’ll keep your grilled lemon shrimp fresh and exciting at every gathering. And while you’re at it, check out the zesty goodness in our Mini Lemon Cheesecakes to round out your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Lemon Shrimp

Fridge: Keep the grilled lemon shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight and reheat on a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, adding a bit of olive oil to restore juiciness.

Make Ahead: You can marinate shrimp for 10 minutes before grilling to enhance flavor; this makes prep easier when hosting friends or family.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Garlic Butter are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavors. Simply place the marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. For the lemon garlic butter, prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just warm it up before serving to keep its luscious consistency. When you’re ready to serve, grill the shrimp straight from the refrigerator and drizzle them with the melted butter for a dinner that’s just as delicious and effortless on busy weeknights!

Grilled Lemon Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting shrimp?
Absolutely! Choose large, raw shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild, ocean-like smell. The shells should be shiny and translucent, with no dark spots or signs of freezer burn. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and cleaned before cooking.

How long can I store leftover grilled lemon shrimp?
For the freshest taste, keep your grilled lemon shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the shrimp cool before placing them in the container to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze grilled lemon shrimp, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, lay the grilled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer the shrimp into a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight.

What should I do if my shrimp turn out overcooked or rubbery?
Very! Overcooked shrimp can happen if they are left on the grill for too long. To rescue them, try soaking the shrimp in a little olive oil or butter for a short while to help restore some moisture. For future reference, keep a close eye on them; they typically only need about 2 minutes per side.

Are grilled lemon shrimp safe for people with shellfish allergies?
It’s essential to be cautious! Grilled lemon shrimp are not safe for those with shellfish allergies, as shrimp are classified as shellfish. Always provide alternatives for guests who may have allergies, such as chicken or firm tofu, and inform them of the ingredients in your dishes.

How can I add more flavor without overpowering the shrimp?
I often make a simple marinade with lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Marinate the shrimp for 10 minutes before grilling; this adds depth without overpowering the natural flavors of the shrimp!