BBQ Shrimp Kabobs Recipe: Smoky-Sweet Skewers for the Grill

I’m excited to share my BBQ shrimp kabobs recipe that grills to perfection in just 15 minutes. As a pitmaster with a passion for combining classic techniques with bold flavors, I’ve perfected this method for tender, smoky shrimp that will elevate your next backyard cookout.

The secret lies in the marinade and precise grilling technique. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results that impress. Let’s fire up the grill and get started with this easy, delicious recipe that’s perfect for warm weather entertaining.

Ingredients for Bbq Shrimp Kabobs

Grill-ready ingredients for perfectly charred shrimp kabobs in just 15 minutes.

[recipe_ingredient_scaler]

For the best shrimp, look for wild-caught Gulf or South American at Whole Foods or a reputable fish market. Freshness matters, so avoid any with a strong fishy smell. If you can’t find wild-caught, farmed works too. Frozen is fine if thawed properly—pat dry before threading onto skewers.

No BBQ sauce? Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and hot sauce for a quick substitute. For extra flavor, try adding 1-2 tsp of bourbon or your favorite whiskey to the marinade. The smoked paprika gives a nice smoky depth, but you can swap it for regular paprika if that’s what you have on hand. Fresh lemon juice is a must—don’t skip it.

These kabobs keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the grill or in a hot skillet. You can also prep the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Shrimp Kabobs

Here’s the method to achieve perfectly grilled shrimp kabobs every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Vegetables

In a large bowl, whisk together the 0.25 cup olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper. Add the 1.5 lb large shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 5 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Cut the 2 whole bell peppers into 1-inch pieces, 1 whole red onion into 1-inch pieces, and 1 whole zucchini into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Halve the 1 cup cherry tomatoes. The vegetables should be cut into uniform sizes so they grill evenly.

Step 2: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread the marinated shrimp, bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Leave a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Brush the kabobs with the remaining marinade from the bowl.

If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Metal skewers can be used directly.

Step 3: Grill the Kabobs to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with 0.5 cup BBQ sauce. This will give the kabobs a nice glaze and add flavor. Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and serve immediately.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the BBQ shrimp kabobs hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. These kabobs are perfect as a main dish or as part of a larger barbecue spread. The combination of grilled shrimp and vegetables, smothered in BBQ sauce, is sure to be a hit.

For an extra burst of flavor, you can serve the kabobs with a side of additional BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy your perfectly grilled BBQ shrimp kabobs!

Make-Ahead Tips for bbq shrimp kabobs

Prepping Shrimp in Advance

You can prepare the shrimp for kabobs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply peel, devein, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to grill. I often prep shrimp the night before a big cookout to save time.

Marinade Preparation

The marinade can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Mix together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then pour it into an airtight container. When you’re ready to grill, simply add the shrimp to the marinade for at least 5 minutes. ⏰

Assembling Kabobs Ahead

While it’s best to grill kabobs immediately after assembly, you can thread the shrimp and vegetables onto skewers up to 2 hours in advance. Store them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand.

Grilling Tips for Success

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat just before cooking. Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking. Cook the kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling for that perfect glaze. 🔥