Perfect Grilled Garlic Shrimp Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic mixing with sizzling shrimp on the grill. Whether you're hosting a weekend barbecue or simply craving a quick, flavorful seafood dish, grilled garlic shrimp is the perfect recipe to impress your guests or treat yourself.

This easy-to-follow guide will help you prepare tender, juicy shrimp with a bold garlic kick, making every bite unforgettable.

Get your grilling tools ready—your new favorite dish awaits!

Why You’ll Love Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Grilled garlic shrimp is an absolute crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

Versatility – Serve it as a main, an appetizer, or toss it into a salad or pasta for a complete meal.
Speed – This dish takes just 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Bomb – The combination of fresh shrimp, garlic, herbs, and grill-charred goodness is out of this world.

And the best part? It’s beginner-friendly! This recipe will guide you through each step with tips for perfectly grilled shrimp every time.

The Ingredients You'll Need

Before you fire up the grill, gather these simple ingredients for about 4 servings (feel free to double the recipe for a larger group).

1 lb (450g) large raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, with tails on or off depending on preference)
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a kick of heat)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)

Quick Substitutions

No soy sauce? Use Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of salt instead.
Out of paprika? Try cayenne pepper for extra spice or regular paprika for milder flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Perfect Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure they’re fully deveined, as this helps with even cooking and ensures the perfect texture. Leave the tails on if serving as finger food for a more elegant presentation.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Marinade

Whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and chili flakes in a medium bowl. The mixture should be fragrant, with a balance of tanginess and spice.
Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes (don’t exceed 30 minutes, as the acidity from the lemon juice can begin to "cook" the shrimp).

Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp

If you're using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Thread 3–5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small gap between them to allow even cooking.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. A clean, hot grill is key to achieving those beautiful char marks.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and pink with light grill marks. Do not overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Optional: Brush any leftover marinade over the shrimp during cooking for extra flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and add lemon wedges for garnish. Serve immediately, savoring the irresistible aroma of garlic and char.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Wondering what pairs well with this delicious shrimp dish? Here are a few serving ideas to round out your meal:

Side Dishes – Think garlic butter rice, grilled veggies, or a simple green salad.
Main Course Additions – Toss shrimp into creamy pasta, a zesty shrimp taco, or mix them with quinoa and avocado for an easy grain bowl.
Drinks – A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager pairs beautifully with the garlicky, smoky flavors.

Tips for Success

Don’t Skip the Preheat – A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Fresh Shrimp is Best – If possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen for the best taste and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely before marinating.
Keep a Timer Handy – Shrimp cook quickly, so timing is crucial to avoid overcooking.

Why Grilling Enthusiasts Should Try This Recipe

Grilled garlic shrimp isn’t just another recipe—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and the joy of grilling. It’s a dish that embodies versatility, simplicity, and sophistication all in one. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a seasoned grill master, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.

Bonus Tip

Hosting a BBQ? Double the recipe and watch as these shrimp skewers disappear within minutes. They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

Elevate Your Grilling with Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Grilled garlic shrimp isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. From the sizzling sound of shrimp on the grill to the vivid burst of garlicky goodness in each bite, this recipe is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

Hungry for more grilling inspiration? Explore our collection of seafood recipes and take your grilling game to the next level.

Your grill is waiting—what are you waiting for? Try our grilled garlic shrimp recipe today!