Grilled shrimp is a delicious and healthy meal that is quick and easy to make during the summertime. When grilling shrimp, it is important to cook it at the right temperature to ensure it is cooked through without becoming rubbery. There are a few key factors to consider when determining the best temperature to grill shrimp.
Quick Answers
The ideal grilling temperature for shrimp is:
- 350-400°F direct heat
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side
- Shrimp are done when opaque and pink
Why Temperature Matters
Cooking shrimp at the proper temperature is vital for getting tender, juicy results. Shrimp contains very little connective tissue so it can go from perfect to overcooked very quickly. If the grill is too hot, the outside of the shrimp will burn before the inside is cooked through. Too low of a temperature and the shrimp will become rubbery and mushy.
Shrimp need high heat to develop that quintessential charred, grilled flavor. But because they cook so fast, the grill temperature needs to be controlled to prevent overcooking. The sweet spot for grilling shrimp is between 350-400°F.
Direct vs Indirect Heat
The best way to grill shrimp is over direct heat. This means placing the shrimp directly over the heat source. Direct heat allows the shrimp to caramelize and pick up that smoky flavor. It also lets them cook fast at the higher heat needed to properly sear the outside while keeping the inside moist.
Indirect heat is when you push the coals or burners to one side of the grill and cook the food on the other side. This is useful for larger cuts of meat that require long cooking times. But for quick cooking shrimp, direct heat is preferred.
Cook Time
At the ideal grilling temperature of 350-400°F, shrimp cook very quickly. Jumbo shrimp take about 2-3 minutes per side. Smaller shrimp may only need 1-2 minutes per side. It is important not to overcook them.
The telltale sign that shrimp are fully cooked is when they turn opaque and pink all the way through. Undercooked shrimp will still have some translucent flesh. Use tongs to occasionally flip and check a shrimp to monitor doneness while grilling.
Tips for Grilling Shrimp
Follow these tips for perfect grilled shrimp every time:
- Use peeled, deveined shrimp to minimize prep time and prevent charred shells.
- Pat shrimp dry before grilling to help them caramelize.
- Brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Season shrimp just before grilling to keep flavors fresh.
- Grill shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Use a grilling basket if your shrimp are small to avoid losses.
How to Tell When Shrimp Are Done
Shrimp cook extremely fast on the grill so it’s important to pay attention to know when they are finished cooking. Here are the signs to look for:
- Opaque, pink flesh throughout
- Firm, plump appearance
- Char or grill marks on the surface
- Shrimp have curled and tightened up
Undercooked shrimp will have some translucent flesh and feel too soft. Overcooked shrimp look shriveled, rubbery and dry.
The most reliable way to test doneness is to cut into a shrimp to check that it is fully opaque inside. Use tongs to flip a shrimp every 30-60 seconds while grilling until done.
Common Mistakes
It’s easy to over or undercook shrimp on the grill. Here are some common grilling mistakes to avoid:
- Grilling at the wrong temperature – Get a grill thermometer to monitor heat.
- Overcrowding – Cook shrimp in a single layer with space between.
- Choosing low quality shrimp – Select fresh, sustainable shrimp.
- Not cleaning grill grates – Scrub grates well before grilling.
- Saucing too early – Brush on sauce just before removing.
- Forgetting to preheat grill – Give grill 15-20 minutes to preheat.
Marinades, Rubs and Sauces
Marinades, dry rubs and barbecue sauces enhance the flavor of grilled shrimp. Consider the following options:
Marinades
- Lemon, garlic, olive oil – brightens flavor
- Chili sauce, lime – spicy kick
- Coconut milk, curry – Thai flavors
- Wine, herbs, mustard – elegant tasting
Dry Rubs
- Cajun seasoning – bold, spicy
- Old Bay seasoning – classic seafood rub
- Lemon pepper – fresh citrus notes
- Smoked paprika, brown sugar – sweet and smoky
BBQ Sauces
- Honey sriracha – sweet heat
- Ginger soy glaze – Asian flair
- Lemon garlic butter – rich and tangy
- Mango habanero – fruity kick
Marinate shrimp for 15-30 minutes before grilling. Apply dry rubs right before hitting the grill. Brush on sauce during the last 1-2 minutes of grilling to prevent burning.
Grilled Shrimp Recipes
Here are some amazing grilled shrimp dinner recipes to try:
Easy Grilled Shrimp
The classic easy appetizer, marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic and herbs.
BBQ Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp threaded onto skewers, basted with a sticky honey barbecue glaze.
Jerk Shrimp Tacos
Spicy jerk-seasoned shrimp served in warmed corn tortillas and topped with salsa and avocado.
Grilled Shrimp Summer Rolls
Grilled shrimp wrapped up with fresh veggies and herbs in rice paper.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
Shrimp, bell peppers, zucchini and red onion grilled on skewers over the fire.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Shrimp wrapped in bacon, glazed with brown sugar for a savory, candied treat.
Complementary Side Dishes
Grilled shrimp pairs well with these light, summery sides:
- Corn on the cob
- Coleslaw or cabbage slaw
- Potato salad
- Macaroni salad
- Pasta salad
- Bruschetta
- Garlic bread
A refreshing salad or crunchy slaw complements the smoky shrimp. Starchier sides like potato or pasta salads round out the meal.
Conclusion
Grilling shrimp is a quick, healthy way to put an easy but impressive dinner on the table. Cook shrimp over direct heat at 350-400°F for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque. Monitor temperature and doneness closely to avoid overcooking. Use marinades, dry rubs and sauces to add big flavor. Pair with lighter side dishes like salad and enjoy your tasty grilled shrimp meal.