These Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp are a tasty treat! Juicy shrimp are marinated and cooked to perfection on the grill, making them smoky and flavorful.
They’re great as an appetizer or main dish. I love serving them with a side of fresh bread to soak up all the yummy garlic butter. Who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are essential for these grilled bites. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using scallops or even firm fish like salmon. Make sure to avoid smaller shrimp, as they cook too quickly and may over-char.
Olive Oil: It adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can substitute with melted butter or a flavored oil, like garlic oil, if you want a stronger flavor profile.
Spices: The spice mix is crucial for flavor. If you’re missing one, you can replace chili powder with taco seasoning for a different flare. Adjust the cayenne according to how spicy you like it!
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemon, lime juice does a fine job too. A splash of vinegar could work as a substitute as well.
How Do I Grill the Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky since they cook fast. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a nice sear without drying out the shrimp.
- Marinate for just 15-30 minutes to infuse flavor without toughening the shrimp from the acid.
- When grilling, cook for just 2-3 minutes per side. Watch closely; shrimp turn from translucent to opaque. Once they curl into a C shape, they are done!
- Using skewers makes it easier to handle the shrimp on the grill. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Taking these steps will help you achieve perfectly grilled shrimp every time!
Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Melted butter (optional, for brushing after grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus an additional 10 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This marinade will add loads of flavor to the shrimp!
2. Marinating the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss them gently until all the shrimp are well coated. Let them sit for about 15 to 30 minutes—this helps the flavors soak in. Just be careful not to marinate them too long, or the shrimp might become tough from the lemon juice.
3. Preparing the Grill:
While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, lightly oil the grill grates by using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This prevents sticking and allows for perfect grill marks!
4. Skewering the Shrimp:
For easy grilling, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each shrimp to ensure even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for a bit helps to prevent burning during grilling.
5. Grilling the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They are done when they turn pinkish and opaque. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
6. Optional Butter Brushing:
For an extra rich flavor, brush the grilled shrimp with melted butter after taking them off the grill. This step is totally optional but highly recommended!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Remove the shrimp from the skewers and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, lemon wedges, and sides like corn on the cob or a crisp salad.
Enjoy your flavorful and smoky Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to run cold water over them in a sealed bag for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with melted butter or avocado oil. These options will still provide great flavor and help the spices stick to the shrimp.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pan over low heat to prevent overcooking or drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or consider including crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade. Adjust according to your spice preference!
