Easy and Flavorful Barbecue Shrimp Recipe (Grilled or Skillet) - Nourish & Savor

Looking for a quick, delicious seafood dish that brings bold flavor with minimal effort? This barbecue shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you grill it outdoors or cook it in a skillet, BBQ shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or game-day gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Shrimp Recipe

✅ Ready in under 20 minutes
✅ Smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet
✅ Works on the grill or stovetop
✅ Easy to scale for parties or meal prep

Let’s break down how to make barbecue shrimp that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients for Barbecue Shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Optional: Fresh lemon wedges, chopped parsley for garnish

🦐 Tip: For the best grilled shrimp, use large or jumbo shrimp so they stay juicy and don’t overcook.

How to Make Barbecue Shrimp (2 Ways)

🔥 Method 1: Grilled BBQ Shrimp (Best for Cookouts)

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Thread shrimp onto skewers or use a grill basket.
Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Brush barbecue sauce onto shrimp during the last minute of grilling.
Remove and serve immediately with lemon and parsley.

🍋 Optional: Serve over rice, salad, or inside tacos.

🍳 Method 2: Skillet BBQ Shrimp (Quick Indoor Version)

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add olive oil and seasoned shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side.
Reduce heat and stir in barbecue sauce. Cook for 1 more minute to coat evenly.
Remove from heat and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Best BBQ Sauces for Shrimp

Not all sauces are created equal—look for sauces that balance sweet and tangy flavors. Here are some great options:

Honey BBQ – Great for mild sweetness
Chipotle BBQ – For a smoky kick
Spicy peach BBQ – A fruity twist that pairs beautifully with shrimp

Want to make your own? Try mixing ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika for a DIY version.

Tips for the Perfect Barbecue Shrimp

Don’t overcook! Shrimp cook quickly—pull them off when they turn opaque and curl into a “C” shape.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Use metal skewers or a grill basket for convenience and even cooking.
Marinate the shrimp in BBQ sauce after grilling to avoid burning the sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Q: Is BBQ shrimp spicy?
Not by default, but you can add cayenne or hot sauce to turn up the heat.

Q: Can I cook barbecue shrimp in the oven?
Absolutely. Broil shrimp on a baking sheet for 2–3 minutes per side, brushing with BBQ sauce near the end.

Final Thoughts

This barbecue shrimp recipe is everything you want in a quick, satisfying meal—juicy shrimp, smoky BBQ flavor, and ready in minutes. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking inside, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss.