Why BBQ Shrimp Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you think of BBQ, shrimp mightn’t be the first thing that comes to mind, but it should be. I can’t tell you how often I’ve served BBQ shrimp, and it always wows my guests.
The smoky, tangy flavors combined with the succulent shrimp create a dish that’s both comforting and fancy. Plus, it cooks up quickly, making it perfect for gatherings.
The bright hints of lemon and garlic add an invigorating twist that elevates the whole experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever overlooked this BBQ gem.
It’s a must-make for any grill master!
Ingredients of BBQ Shrimp
When it comes to whipping up a delicious BBQ shrimp dish, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor. You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of simple items can come together to create something so tasty.
Plus, you probably already have a lot of these essentials in your pantry. So, let’s explore what you need to get started on this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Here’s what you’ll need to make BBQ shrimp:
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (I recommend Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 4 crushed garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 lbs raw shrimp
Now, if you’re like me, you might be wondering if there’s some wiggle room with these ingredients. The great news is, yes! You can certainly tweak the recipe to fit your taste.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of lemon pepper seasoning, you could substitute it with Old Bay or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat. And if you want to go a little lighter, you might consider using olive oil instead of butter—though let’s be real, butter does bring that lovely richness that makes everything taste better.
How to Make BBQ Shrimp
Alright, let’s get started on making this scrumptious BBQ shrimp. It’s easier than you might think, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
First things first, preheat that oven to a solid 400 degrees. You want it nice and hot to get the shrimp perfectly cooked.
Now, grab yourself a mixing bowl and start with 1/4 cup of melted butter. It mightn’t be the healthiest choice, but hey, it’s BBQ shrimp—let’s embrace the flavor, right?
Pour in 1/2 cup of Italian salad dressing, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce. I’m a huge fan of Sweet Baby Ray’s; it really does wonders for this dish.
Next, toss in 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning, 4 crushed garlic cloves, and those 2 bay leaves. Mix all of that together until you have a lovely, fragrant sauce. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell divine.
Now it’s assembly time! Grab a baking pan and lay down the sliced onion and lemons at the bottom. This not only adds flavor, but it also creates a beautiful base.
Then, take your 3 pounds of raw shrimp—yes, that’s a lot of shrimp; you might want to invite some friends over—and place them in the pan.
Pour that delicious sauce over the shrimp, making sure everything is nicely coated.
Pop the pan in the oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes. Just enough time to clean up your kitchen (or not, if you’re like me and tend to procrastinate).
When the shrimp are done, they’ll be pink and juicy, ready to impress anyone lucky enough to be at your dinner table.
And there you have it—a simple yet delectable BBQ shrimp dish that’s sure to be a hit.
BBQ Shrimp Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your BBQ shrimp, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can elevate this dish.
For a spicy kick, try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. You can also swap out the Italian dressing for a zesty ranch or a honey mustard dressing.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, incorporate some smoked paprika or chipotle powder. For a healthier twist, use olive oil instead of butter.
And don’t hesitate to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and flavor. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with BBQ Shrimp
To truly elevate your BBQ shrimp experience, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich, savory flavors.
I love serving it alongside an invigorating coleslaw; the crunch and tanginess cut through the richness beautifully. Grilled corn on the cob is another favorite of mine, adding a sweet, smoky touch.
Don’t forget about crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce! For a light touch, a lemony quinoa salad can add brightness.
Finally, a chilled glass of white wine or a zesty lemonade enhances the meal, making it a delightful feast every time. Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing BBQ shrimp, it’s essential to keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish. First, make sure your shrimp are fresh or properly thawed for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the marinating step; letting the shrimp soak in the sauce for at least 30 minutes elevates the taste. When baking, cover the pan with foil for the first half to retain moisture, then remove it to achieve that perfect caramelization.
Finally, I like to garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices before serving to brighten the dish and impress your guests. Enjoy your zesty BBQ shrimp!