This tasty Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp is packed with flavor! Each shrimp is marinated in a zesty mix and grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky, delicious taste.
You can’t help but love how juicy and tender these shrimp turn out. I often enjoy them with a side of rice or a nice salad—just perfect for a summer night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Choose large shrimp for this recipe—they’re great for grilling. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use scallops or even firm fish like salmon, but keep in mind cooking times will vary.
Olive Oil or Butter: I usually go with olive oil for a healthier option, but melted butter adds a nice richness. If you’re avoiding dairy, stick with olive oil.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key for that deep flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika works too, though the taste will be milder. Chili powder adds a nice kick; you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, depending on how much heat you want. If you prefer less spice, you can totally skip it or use a mild hot sauce for a different flavor.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. If parsley isn’t your thing, cilantro or even green onions can work well as a garnish.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here are some tips to avoid rubbery shrimp:
- Make sure to marinate the shrimp for just 15-30 minutes. Longer can toughen them up.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high; a hot grill gives that nice char while keeping the shrimp tender.
- Watch closely: grill shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they’re pink and opaque.
- Using skewers helps keep them manageable and makes flipping easier, but it’s fine to grill them directly on the grill rack too.
Following these steps will give you perfectly grilled shrimp every time!
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-30 minutes to marinate the shrimp. The grilling itself will take around 5-6 minutes. In total, you can have a delicious grilled shrimp dish ready in about 30-45 minutes, depending on the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil (or melted butter), lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is nicely combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and gently toss them until they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. Be careful not to marinate them for too long, or they might become tough.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This temperature will ensure that the shrimp cooks quickly and gets that nice char.
4. Skewer the Shrimp (Optional):
If you’d like, you can thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easier handling while grilling. If you prefer to grill them directly, that’s totally fine too!
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp on the grill and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque and have nice grill marks.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once grilled, remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a vibrant touch.
7. Enjoy with Dipping Sauce (Optional):
If you like, serve the shrimp with a small bowl of melted butter infused with herbs or a light dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Enjoy your Texas Roadhouse-style grilled shrimp with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a burst of flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you prefer a different flavor, melted butter is a great alternative. You can also use avocado oil for a mild taste, or any other neutral oil like canola if desired.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
