Butterfly Shrimp Recipe Grill: Skewered and Charred With Garlic Butter

Grilling shrimp transforms them from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few professional techniques. The butterfly cut exposes more surface area to direct heat, creating beautiful char marks and intensified flavor.

I developed this method after years of perfecting seafood on the grill, using simple ingredients that let the shrimp shine. The garlic butter baste adds richness while enhancing the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp.

You’ll achieve restaurant-quality results with tender, juicy shrimp that have a slight smoky edge. The skewers make flipping easy and presentation impressive.

Serve these immediately for the best texture and flavor. The aroma alone will draw a crowd.

Ingredients for Butterfly Shrimp Recipe Grill

Transform fresh shrimp with professional techniques and bold flavors on the grill.

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The shrimp quality is paramount. Wild-caught Gulf shrimp or 16/20 count work best—larger shrimp hold up to grilling and look impressive on skewers. Whole Foods or a trusted seafood counter ensures freshness. Look for shrimp with a slight ocean scent, not fishy. The tails stay on for presentation, but ensure they’re deveined properly. Freshness matters more than size, so don’t compromise even if it means paying a bit more.

No fresh garlic? Garlic powder at one-third the amount works in a pinch, though fresh is ideal. Salted butter can substitute for unsalted, but reduce the added salt. For a smokier flavor, swap smoked paprika for regular. If you’re out of parsley, fresh cilantro or chives add a nice touch. The lemon juice is non-negotiable—it cuts through the richness of the butter and brightens the shrimp.

Shrimp cook fast, so prep everything before firing up the grill. Leftover basted shrimp keep in the fridge for 2 days—reheat gently to avoid overcooking. Wooden skewers must soak to prevent burning. Serve immediately for the best texture; the aroma alone will draw a crowd.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Butterfly Shrimp on the Grill

Master the technique for perfectly charred, buttery shrimp with professional results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Skewers

Begin by soaking the 8 pieces Wooden Skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Meanwhile, butterfly the 1.5 lb Large Shrimp by making a shallow cut along the belly side, stopping just before the tail. Press gently to open the shrimp flat.

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season both sides with 1.5 tsp Kosher Salt, 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper, 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika, and 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper. The seasoning should adhere well to the slightly damp surface of the shrimp.

Step 2: Thread and Prep for Grilling

Thread the seasoned shrimp onto the soaked skewers, inserting the skewer through the center of each shrimp where the cut was made. This keeps them flat and exposed to direct heat for even cooking. Arrange 2-3 shrimp per skewer, leaving a small gap between each for air circulation.

Brush both sides of the skewered shrimp lightly with 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. This creates a barrier that prevents sticking and promotes even browning. The shrimp should glisten but not be dripping with oil.

Step 3: Grill to Charred Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and develop distinct grill marks.

Avoid moving the skewers too much—let them sear undisturbed to achieve those beautiful char lines. The shrimp are done when they curl into a loose “C” shape and the flesh is no longer translucent. Watch closely; shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.

Step 4: Baste with Garlic Butter and Finish

While the shrimp cook, melt the 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the 6 cloves minced Garlic Cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice.

During the last minute of grilling, brush the shrimp generously with the garlic butter mixture. The heat will cause the butter to sizzle and infuse the shrimp with rich, garlicky flavor. Transfer the skewers to a serving platter and brush once more with the remaining butter.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Immediately

Sprinkle the skewers with 0.25 cup chopped Fresh Parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Arrange the 4 pieces Lemon Wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp just before eating.

Serve the butterfly shrimp hot, straight from the grill. The combination of smoky char, buttery richness, and bright citrus creates a dish that’s both impressive and irresistibly flavorful. Each bite should deliver tender, juicy shrimp with a crisp edge and robust garlic undertone.

Dietary Considerations for This Dish

Pescatarian Friendly

This dish is a perfect fit for pescatarian diets, offering high-quality protein without any meat. The shrimp provide all nine essential amino acids your body needs. I love that it’s naturally low in saturated fat while being rich in flavor. 💪

Gluten-Free Option

All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for most gluten-sensitive eaters. Just ensure your wooden skewers haven’t been treated with gluten-containing solutions. I always check the label to be certain.

Dairy-Free Adaptation

For dairy-free versions, swap the butter for coconut oil or olive oil. Use 1:1 ratio of oil to butter. The flavor will be different but still delicious. I’ve had great results with refined coconut oil for its neutral taste.

Low-Carb Friendly

With only 2 grams of carbs per serving (from the shrimp and seasonings), this fits perfectly into low-carb or keto lifestyles. The protein helps maintain muscle while keeping carb counts minimal. I often serve these with a side of grilled vegetables.

Shellfish Allergy Warning

This dish contains shrimp, a common allergen. Avoid if allergic to shellfish. For cross-contamination safety, clean grill grates thoroughly if they’ve previously cooked shellfish. I always keep separate utensils for seafood prep.

Sodium Considerations

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium butter and decrease the salt by ½ tsp. The smoked paprika and garlic still provide plenty of flavor. I find the lemon juice helps balance the reduced salt content beautifully. 🍋

Frequently Asked Questions