Shrimp has always been one of my go-to ingredients when I want something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. But when you marinate it just right and throw it on the grill? Pure magic. The slightly charred exterior, the juicy tenderness inside, and the bold burst of flavor in every bite make this Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp recipe one of my all-time favorites. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at a cookout or special gathering.

I love how customizable this dish is—you can tweak the marinade to your liking or spice things up for a kick. Plus, grilling shrimp is quick, giving you that smoky, outdoor flavor without hours of prep. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just someone who enjoys bold, easy meals, this recipe will win you over fast.

Why You’ll Love This Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Quick to cook – Just a few minutes on the grill and dinner is done.
Packed with flavor – Thanks to a zesty, savory marinade.
Versatile – Perfect as a main, in tacos, over salads, or served with pasta.
Healthy and protein-rich – A light yet filling meal.
Great for entertaining – It looks impressive and tastes even better.
Minimal cleanup – Especially if you’re grilling outdoors.
Customizable heat and flavor – Make it your own with spice tweaks.
Perfect for summer – Or anytime you’re craving that smoky char.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For this Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp recipe, I always go for large or jumbo shrimp—something in the 16/20 count per pound range. They’re meaty enough to hold up on the grill without overcooking in a flash. I recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on for easier eating and a nice presentation. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works just as well—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

Options for Substitutions

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how forgiving and adaptable it is. Here are a few swaps you can make depending on what you have on hand:

Shrimp substitute: Try scallops, chunks of salmon, or even tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian spin.
Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor, but avocado oil or grapeseed oil work beautifully too.
Acid: Lemon juice is my go-to, but lime or even a splash of white wine vinegar gives the marinade a fresh zing.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is classic, but cilantro, basil, or even thyme can change up the flavor.
Garlic: If you’re out of fresh cloves, use garlic powder—start with ½ teaspoon.
Spices: Swap paprika for smoked paprika or add cayenne for heat. Want it smoky-sweet? Add a pinch of brown sugar.
Skewers: No skewers? No problem. You can grill shrimp in a basket or on foil for ease.

Ingredients for this Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Large or Jumbo Shrimp – The star of the dish. Choose peeled and deveined shrimp for easier prep and cleaner eating.
Olive Oil – Acts as the base of the marinade, helping the seasoning stick and keeping the shrimp juicy on the grill.
Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the oil and shrimp.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the marinade with a deep, savory punch.
Paprika – Brings color and mild smokiness to the flavor profile.
Salt – Essential to enhance all the other flavors.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat and earthiness.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but a great way to bring in a little spicy edge.
Fresh Parsley (chopped) – For a pop of color and fresh, herbal lift at the end.
Wooden or Metal Skewers – For grilling the shrimp efficiently and evenly.

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if it hasn’t been done already. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better and ensure they grill up with a nice sear.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. This blend creates a bold, zesty base that soaks into every bite of shrimp.

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. Don’t go much longer than that—shrimp can become mushy if left in acidic marinade too long.

Step 4: Skewer the Shrimp

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing each one twice (head and tail) to keep them secure and flat for even cooking.

Step 5: Grill Time

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they’re opaque and lightly charred.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while they’re hot and juicy.

How Long to Cook the Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp cook incredibly fast—just 2 to 3 minutes per side on a preheated grill is all you need. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn opaque with bright pink and orange tones and have slightly charred edges. Overcooking is the enemy here, so stay close and keep an eye on them. As soon as they curl into a loose “C” shape and feel firm but not rubbery, they’re good to go.

Tips for Perfect Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp

Use large or jumbo shrimp to prevent overcooking and get that juicy interior with a crisp edge.
Don’t over-marinate – 30 minutes max is all you need. Too long in acid can make shrimp mushy.
Pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the marinade adhere better and ensure a nice sear.
Preheat the grill – A hot grill helps you get those delicious grill marks and seals in moisture.
Double-skewer shrimp or thread them through twice to keep them from spinning when you flip.
Oil the grill grates lightly before placing the shrimp to prevent sticking.
Grill with the lid open so you can monitor the shrimp closely and avoid overcooking.
Finish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the shrimp – This is the #1 mistake. Shrimp cook fast, and a minute too long can leave them rubbery.
Skipping the dry pat – Wet shrimp won’t pick up that beautiful char or allow the marinade to stick properly.
Using too much acid – Too much lemon juice or marinating too long can break down the shrimp’s texture.
Not preheating the grill – A cold grill leads to sticking and uneven cooking.
Crowding the grill – Give each skewer space for even heat and perfect grill marks.
Forgetting to soak wooden skewers – If you don’t, they’ll catch fire. Always soak for at least 15 minutes.
Uneven shrimp sizes – Smaller shrimp cook faster and could overcook before the rest are ready.
Not seasoning enough – Don’t skimp on salt or garlic; shrimp love bold flavors!

What to Serve With Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp?

1. Garlic Butter Rice

The buttery richness complements the smoky shrimp perfectly.

2. Grilled Veggie Skewers

Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions are a colorful and flavorful match.

3. Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Add some crunch and comfort to the plate.

4. Simple Garden Salad

Keep things fresh with greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.

5. Creamy Coleslaw

A cool, creamy contrast that balances out the heat and spice.

6. Corn on the Cob

Charred corn brushed with butter and herbs? Yes, please.

7. Lemon Orzo Pasta

Light, citrusy, and just right to keep things bright and breezy.

8. Toasted Bread or Garlic Naan

Soak up all the flavorful juices and complete your grilled feast.

Storage Instructions

If you’ve got leftover Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp (lucky you!), store them properly to keep that delicious flavor intact. Let the shrimp cool to room temperature, then transfer them into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or use them cold in salads and wraps.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: 220
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Cholesterol: 190mg
Sodium: 450mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on shrimp size and marinade ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size shrimp is best for grilling?

Large or jumbo shrimp (16/20 count per pound) are ideal. They’re big enough to hold up on the grill without overcooking and have a satisfying bite.

Can I grill shrimp without skewers?

Yes! You can use a grill basket or place shrimp on a piece of heavy-duty foil. Just make sure they’re spread out in a single layer for even cooking.

How long can I marinate shrimp?

Stick to 20–30 minutes. Because the marinade contains acid (like lemon juice), shrimp can get mushy if left too long.

Can I make this recipe with frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating and grilling.

Is it okay to grill shrimp with the shell on?

You can! Grilling with the shell adds flavor and protects the shrimp from overcooking, but it’s messier to eat. I prefer peeled shrimp for easier serving.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem—use a grill pan on the stove or broil them in the oven for a similar charred effect.

Can I make this shrimp spicy?

Definitely. Add extra red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinade to turn up the heat.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They’ll turn opaque, pink, and curl into a “C” shape with lightly browned edges. If they form a tight “O” shape, they’ve likely overcooked.

Conclusion

This Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp recipe is a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in a flash and adaptable to any taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a backyard get-together, these juicy, zesty shrimp are sure to impress. With the perfect balance of smoky char and citrusy brightness, they’ll quickly become a staple in your grill game. So fire it up and dive into one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy shrimp.