Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp with Parsley: A Quick & Flavorful Homemade Delight
Few dishes can rival the irresistible allure of grilled shrimp with garlic butter and parsley. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a mouthwatering masterpiece in under 20 minutes. Juicy, succulent shrimp kissed by the grill, coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, and finished with a burst of fresh parsley and lemon—this is the kind of dish that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a summer barbecue, or a special occasion, these shrimp will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this quick, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why Grilled Shrimp Shines
Shrimp is a versatile protein that cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with bold flavors like garlic and butter. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a nutritional win, offering lean protein and healthy fats. The grill adds a smoky char that elevates the shrimp’s natural sweetness, while the garlic butter and parsley sauce brings a decadent yet fresh finish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe delivers big on taste and presentation without the fuss.
Ingredients (Serves 3-4)
- 500g large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on for presentation; fresh or frozen and thawed work well)
- 100g unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder in a pinch)
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 3-4 tbsp; flat-leaf or curly parsley both work)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving (plus optional zest for extra zing)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a splash of white wine for depth in the sauce
Equipment Needed
- Grill (outdoor barbecue, grill pan, or stovetop griddle)
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Tongs or spatula
- Skewers (optional, for easy grilling)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: If your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, do so now, leaving the tails on for a polished look. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they grill evenly. If using skewers, thread 4-5 shrimp per skewer to make flipping easier. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat the Grill: Fire up your grill to high heat (about 400-450°F/200-230°C). If using a grill pan indoors, place it over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking. A hot grill is key to getting that perfect char without overcooking the shrimp.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat (or in a microwave-safe bowl), melt 100g of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the chopped parsley and, if using, red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine. Remove from heat and set aside. The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp (or skewers) on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn opaque and bright pink with light char marks. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. If unsure, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C or cut one shrimp to ensure it’s opaque throughout.
- Coat and Serve: Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter. Drizzle or brush the warm garlic butter and parsley sauce over the shrimp, ensuring each one is generously coated. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. For extra flair, sprinkle with a pinch of parsley or lemon zest.
- Enjoy the Moment: Plate these beauties with your favorite sides—think grilled veggies, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Encourage everyone to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their shrimp for a bright, zesty finish.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Total Time: 16-18 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 4-5 Shrimp)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
- Fiber: ~0g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on shrimp size and exact ingredient measurements.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work just as well. Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag under cold running water for 10-15 minutes.
- Skewer Trick: If using skewers, soak wooden ones in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers are reusable and hassle-free.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook fast, so keep an eye on them. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl.
- Make It Ahead: Prep the garlic butter sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
- Indoor Option: No grill? Use a stovetop grill pan or broil the shrimp in the oven at 450°F/230°C for 2-3 minutes per side.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Spicy Shrimp: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for a fiery kick.
- Herb Swap: Try fresh dill, cilantro, or basil instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist: Swap the lemon for lime or orange zest and juice for a unique citrusy spin.
- Mediterranean Vibes: Toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of feta cheese after grilling.
- Low-Fat Option: Replace butter with extra-virgin olive oil and reduce the amount to 2-3 tbsp for a lighter dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled shrimp recipe is a triple threat: quick, flavorful, and versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast, yet it’s elegant enough for entertaining guests. The garlic butter sauce is a game-changer, turning simple shrimp into a decadent treat that pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing mocktail. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and can be tailored to various dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Pair with a quinoa salad, grilled asparagus, or roasted baby potatoes for a complete meal.
- Presentation: Serve on a rustic wooden board with lemon wedges and extra parsley for a stunning tablescape.
- Drinks: Complement with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling water with lemon, or a tropical mango smoothie.
Share Your Culinary Creation!
We can’t wait to see your take on these grilled garlic butter shrimp! Snap a photo of your dish, whether it’s a solo dinner or a party platter, and share it on social media with #GarlicButterShrimp. Got a unique twist or favorite side dish? Drop it in the comments below to inspire our community. Let’s celebrate the joy of homemade meals together!
