There’s something about the combination of garlic, smoky grill marks, and plump shrimp that makes this dish irresistible. I love how quickly this recipe comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or even a last-minute appetizer. The marinade infuses each shrimp with bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and spices, while the grill adds a charred, slightly smoky depth that enhances every bite.

One of the best things about garlic grilled shrimp is its versatility. You can serve it over a fresh salad, tuck it into tacos, or pair it with a side of rice and veggies for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for an easy and delicious way to impress your guests, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, including marinating time.
Packed with Flavor – A garlicky, tangy, and slightly smoky taste in every bite.
Healthy & Light – High in protein and low in carbs, making it a nutritious choice.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or party appetizers.
Pairs Well with Everything – Serve it with pasta, rice, salads, or grilled veggies.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For the best garlic grilled shrimp, I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp. They hold up well on the grill, staying juicy and tender without overcooking too quickly. Look for shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience, but keeping the tails on adds a nice presentation and makes them easier to handle when grilling. If you’re using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

Options for Substitutions

Butter Instead of Oil – If you prefer a richer taste, swap olive oil for melted butter in the marinade.
Lime Instead of Lemon – A squeeze of lime juice gives a slightly sweeter and tangier kick.
Honey or Maple Syrup – A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add a touch of caramelization when grilling.
Different Herbs & Spices – Try adding smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for a twist.
Vegetarian Alternative – Replace shrimp with grilled mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based option.

Ingredients for This Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp – Large or jumbo shrimp work best, as they stay juicy and are easy to grill.
Olive Oil – Helps the marinade coat the shrimp while adding a rich, smooth flavor.
Garlic – The star of the marinade, giving the shrimp its bold, aromatic taste.
Lemon Juice – Adds a bright, zesty freshness that balances the richness of the garlic.
Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami flavor and adds a touch of saltiness.
Honey – A little sweetness helps with caramelization on the grill.
Paprika – Gives a subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the shrimp.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley – A garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the shrimp with bold, garlicky goodness while keeping them juicy on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15–20 minutes. If you have more time, you can marinate them for up to an hour for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning.

Step 4: Skewer the Shrimp (Optional)

Thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each one to ensure even cooking. This makes them easier to flip and prevents them from falling through the grates.

Step 5: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp directly on the grill and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery when left on the grill too long.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the shrimp from the grill and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy them hot off the grill!

How Long to Cook the Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp cook incredibly fast on the grill. At medium-high heat (375–400°F), they only need about 2–3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque with slightly charred edges. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them!

Tips for Perfect Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Use Large or Jumbo Shrimp – They stay juicy and don’t overcook as easily.
Don’t Skip the Marinade – Letting the shrimp soak in the flavors for at least 20 minutes makes a big difference.
Preheat the Grill – A hot grill ensures a nice sear and prevents sticking.
Oil the Grill Grates – Use a paper towel dipped in oil to lightly grease the grates before grilling.
Use Skewers for Easy Flipping – Skewering the shrimp makes it easier to turn them quickly and evenly.
Watch for Color Changes – Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked through—don’t let them go beyond that!
Serve Immediately – Grilled shrimp taste best fresh off the grill, so have your sides ready to go.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Shrimp – Shrimp cook fast! Leaving them on the grill too long will make them tough and rubbery.
Skipping the Marinade – Marinating adds flavor and keeps the shrimp juicy. Even 15 minutes makes a big difference.
Not Preheating the Grill – A hot grill gives the shrimp a nice sear and prevents sticking.
Using Small Shrimp – Smaller shrimp cook too quickly and can dry out before you get that perfect char.
Not Oiling the Grill Grates – Shrimp can stick and tear apart if the grill isn’t properly greased.
Crowding the Skewers – Leave a little space between shrimp on skewers to allow even cooking.
Forgetting the Lemon – A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end enhances all the flavors.
Not Serving Immediately – Grilled shrimp taste best right off the grill. Serve them hot!

What to Serve With Garlic Grilled Shrimp?

Grilled Vegetables

Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the smoky shrimp beautifully.

Garlic Butter Rice

A simple, buttery rice dish soaks up all the delicious shrimp juices.

Crusty Bread

A slice of toasted bread is perfect for scooping up extra marinade and flavors.

Fresh Garden Salad

A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the rich, garlicky shrimp.

Lemon Herb Quinoa

Nutty quinoa with a squeeze of lemon makes for a healthy and filling side.

Shrimp Tacos

Tuck the grilled shrimp into tortillas with slaw and a drizzle of sauce for a taco night treat.

Creamy Pasta

Toss the shrimp with linguine and a light garlic butter sauce for a luxurious meal.

A Refreshing Drink

Pair with a chilled white wine, a margarita, or a citrus-infused sparkling water.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftover garlic grilled shrimp, here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerate – Place cooled shrimp in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze – Store in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat Carefully – Warm shrimp in a pan over low heat or in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time to prevent overcooking.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~180
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 7g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes.

Can I cook these without a grill?

Absolutely! You can cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side or broil them in the oven for a similar time.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

At least 15–20 minutes is ideal, but if you have time, an hour will deepen the flavor even more. Avoid marinating for more than 2 hours, as the acidity in the lemon juice can start breaking down the shrimp.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes! Lime juice works just as well and gives a slightly sweeter, tangy twist to the marinade.

Do I have to use skewers?

No, but skewers make grilling easier and help prevent shrimp from falling through the grates. If you don’t have skewers, you can use a grill basket.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, but fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor. If using dried herbs, use about ⅓ of the amount since they are more concentrated.

What’s the best way to reheat grilled shrimp?

Gently warm them in a pan over low heat or microwave in short 30-second bursts. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.

What drinks pair well with garlic grilled shrimp?

A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a citrusy margarita, or even a refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water complement the flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

Garlic grilled shrimp is one of those recipes that never disappoints—quick, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, in tacos, or over rice, this dish is sure to be a hit. Save this recipe on Pinterest, share it with family and friends, and let me know how you enjoyed it!