Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp is a tasty dish featuring juicy shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of spices. They’re grilled to perfection, making every bite packed with deliciousness!
These shrimp are great for a fun barbecue or a cozy dinner. I love throwing them on a skewer and watching everyone go back for seconds. Yum! 🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish as they hold their shape well on the grill. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium shrimp can also work, but adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Olive Oil: I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for an alternative, grapeseed oil or melted butter can be used instead.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives the shrimp a fantastic smoky twist. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be a good substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a kick! You can adjust based on your heat preference. For a milder option, try using a bit of paprika or leave it out completely.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is excellent for garnish. If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried parsley can do in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference!
How Do I Grill Shrimp Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly! Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Make sure the grill is hot before cooking—medium-high heat is perfect. This helps to sear and lock in flavors.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Space the shrimp out on the grill so they cook evenly.
- Keep a close eye on them. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- If using skewers, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
Following these tips will give you perfectly grilled shrimp every time, so you can enjoy that Texas Roadhouse taste at home!
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15 to 30 minutes for marinating the shrimp. Grilling will take about 10 minutes, making this a quick and tasty dish ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk everything together until well combined. This marinade will add tons of flavor to the shrimp!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure each one is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This will allow the shrimp to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This hot surface will give your shrimp a nice sear and smoky flavor.
4. Skewering the Shrimp (Optional):
If you like, you can thread the shrimp onto skewers for easier grilling. Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning. This step is optional but makes flipping and serving a breeze!
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Once the grill is ready, place the shrimp on it. Grill for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them!
6. Serve the Shrimp:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your grilled shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side and a dipping sauce of your choice, such as garlic butter or ranch. Dive in and enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Marinate the Shrimp Overnight?
While marinating the shrimp for up to 30 minutes is ideal for flavor, you can marinate them overnight. However, be cautious not to exceed 12 hours as the acid from the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the shrimp, making them tough.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat them on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook!
What Can I Serve with Grilled Shrimp?
These grilled shrimp are delicious on their own, but I recommend serving them with side dishes like rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also pair wonderfully with a dipping sauce like garlic butter or cocktail sauce!