If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful way to enjoy shrimp, this BBQ shrimp recipe is the perfect choice. Hailing from New Orleans, this recipe is a classic Southern dish, rich in spices, butter, and zesty flavors. Contrary to the name, this BBQ shrimp dish isn’t actually grilled but cooked in a rich sauce that packs the same bold punch.
What is BBQ Shrimp?
Many people are surprised to learn that BBQ shrimp doesn’t involve grilling at all. Instead, it’s a sautéed or baked dish, where the shrimp soaks up a buttery, tangy, and spicy sauce. Originating from New Orleans, this dish brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting richness of butter and spices. When served over rice or with a side of crusty French bread, this meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering.
To get the best results, it’s essential to use wild-caught Gulf shrimp, known for their rich, succulent flavor. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of using Gulf shrimp, check out this helpful guide that delves into why they’re the preferred choice for seafood lovers.
For a great dessert pairing after enjoying your BBQ shrimp, you might want to try a Southern favorite like this perfect peach cobbler with canned peaches, which offers a comforting sweetness to balance the meal.
Essential Ingredients for BBQ Shrimp
This recipe requires a few pantry staples, along with fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp: Ideally, Gulf shrimp for authenticity.
- Butter: For creating the rich sauce base.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor.
- BBQ rubs: A mix of sweet BBQ rub and garlic jalapeño rub gives the shrimp that extra kick.
- Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty tang.
- Hot sauce: For some extra heat.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami to the sauce.
- Fresh parsley: For garnish.
For a smokier and more authentic BBQ experience, it’s crucial to use high-quality BBQ charcoal like Royal Oak Charcoal, which you can find more about here.
Step-by-Step BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Gulf shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- ½ cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp sweet BBQ rub
- 1 tbsp garlic jalapeño rub
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: sliced French bread or cooked white rice
Instructions
1. Preparing the Shrimp
- Start by marinating the shrimp. In a large bowl, mix the shrimp with the sweet BBQ rub, garlic jalapeño rub, and a drizzle of olive oil. Ensure the shrimp is well-coated, then cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Create the BBQ Sauce
- To the skillet with the garlic and butter, add the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients. This will form the base of your BBQ shrimp sauce, rich in tangy and savory flavors.
4. Cook the Shrimp
- Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure not to overcook it.
5. Simmer and Garnish
- Once the shrimp is cooked, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the shrimp soaks up all the sauce.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve
- Serve your BBQ shrimp over a bed of white rice or alongside slices of crusty French bread, perfect for sopping up the extra sauce.
For a quick and easy dessert after your BBQ shrimp, consider making this microwave peach crisp for a delightful ending to your meal.
Tips for Customizing Your BBQ Shrimp
While the basic recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways you can customize your BBQ shrimp for different tastes:
- Spice it up: Add more hot sauce or even a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a spicier version of the dish.
- Make it sweeter: Incorporate a bit more BBQ sauce for a sweeter, tangier finish.
- Add vegetables: Bell peppers and onions can add more texture and color to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the recipe is relatively straightforward, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, and overcooking it can lead to a tough, rubbery texture. As soon as the shrimp turns pink and opaque, it’s ready.
- Over-seasoning: With the strong flavors of the BBQ rub and hot sauce, be cautious not to add too much salt or additional seasoning.
Perfect Pairings for BBQ Shrimp
This BBQ shrimp recipe pairs well with several side dishes and drinks. Here are some ideas:
- Side Dishes:
- Steamed white rice
- Garlic bread
- Coleslaw
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Beverages:
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
- Iced tea with a hint of lemon
- A cold beer, especially a lager or pilsner, complements the rich and spicy flavors.
Variations on the BBQ Shrimp Recipe
If you love to experiment in the kitchen, try out some of these variations on the BBQ shrimp recipe:
- Cajun BBQ Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the shrimp marinade for a bolder, spicier flavor profile.
- Garlic Butter BBQ Shrimp: Skip the hot sauce and Worcestershire, and instead, double the garlic for a buttery, garlic-forward sauce.
- Sweet and Spicy BBQ Shrimp: Combine honey with the hot sauce in the BBQ sauce to balance the heat with sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make BBQ shrimp without a grill?
Yes! Despite the name, BBQ shrimp doesn’t require a grill. This dish is traditionally made on the stovetop in a skillet with a rich sauce.
What type of shrimp is best for BBQ shrimp?
Gulf shrimp are the best choice for this dish due to their robust flavor and firm texture. If you can’t find them, any large shrimp will work well.
Can I use frozen shrimp for BBQ shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to properly thaw the shrimp before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker thaw.
How do I store leftover BBQ shrimp?
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Shrimp cooks very quickly, in about 2-3 minutes per side. As soon as it turns pink and opaque, it’s done. Keep a close eye to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become rubbery.
Conclusion
BBQ shrimp is a delightful dish packed with the bold flavors of New Orleans. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cook time, it’s a great way to enjoy shrimp in a new and flavorful way.
Don’t forget to try this dish with authentic wild-caught Gulf shrimp, and use high-quality BBQ charcoal for the best results when grilling. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to master and delicious to eat!
For a unique twist on traditional BBQ flavors, try serving your shrimp with an easy canned peach pie with streusel topping found here. It’s the perfect sweet end to a savory meal.