I still remember the first time I made these Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter for a summer backyard dinner, the sizzle as they hit the grill, that incredible aroma of garlic and butter floating through the warm evening air, and the way every single guest gravitated toward the grill before they were even done cooking.

They looked stunning on the platter, golden and glistening, and tasted even better than they looked. If you are looking for a summer appetizer that feels genuinely impressive and delivers bold, rich flavor in every single bite, this is the recipe that will make you the star of every summer gathering.

Why You’ll Love It

These skewers are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer recipe, combining juicy, perfectly grilled shrimp with a rich, garlicky butter sauce that is so good people will be licking their fingers and reaching for more before the platter even makes it to the table. They cook in under ten minutes, look absolutely stunning on any serving board, and feel classy and elevated enough for elegant summer dinners while still being casual and fun enough for backyard parties. Whether you are hosting a big appetizers for party spread or a small intimate summer dinner, these garlic butter shrimp skewers always steal the show.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
• ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving
• 10 to 12 wooden or metal skewers

How to Make It

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning
2. Peel and devein shrimp, leaving tails on, and pat completely dry with paper towels
3. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper
4. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss until every piece is fully and evenly coated
5. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes
6. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium high heat
7. Thread 3 to 4 shrimp onto each skewer, threading through both the tail and the body so they lie flat
8. Brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking
9. Place shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without moving them
10. Flip each skewer and cook for another 2 minutes until shrimp are pink, opaque, and lightly charred at the edges
11. Remove skewers from the grill and transfer to a large serving platter
12. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter marinade over the hot skewers immediately
13. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley generously over the entire platter
14. Add lemon wedges around the platter for squeezing
15. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture

Variations & Serving Ideas

• Add chunks of zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion between the shrimp on each skewer for a colorful, complete summer dinners presentation
• Swap garlic butter for a spicy sriracha honey glaze for a sweet heat version that guests absolutely love
• Add a teaspoon of fresh grated ginger to the marinade for a subtle Asian inspired twist on this appetizer recipe
• Serve over a bed of creamy whipped feta for an elegant, restaurant-style classy appetizers platter
• Squeeze fresh lime instead of lemon for a brighter, more tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky paprika
• Brush skewers with a herb compound butter made with parsley, chives, and tarragon for an extra layer of richness
• Serve alongside a bowl of mango peach pineapple salsa as a dipping option for a stunning tropical pairing
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished skewers for a sweet, tangy Italian appetizers inspired finish
• Wrap each grilled shrimp in a small piece of prosciutto before skewering for an indulgent, salty upgrade
• Serve on a large wooden board scattered with fresh lemon slices, fresh herbs, and a small bowl of garlic butter dipping sauce for the most impressive appetizers for party display of the season

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter

• Author: Adeline
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter deliver smoky grilled shrimp brushed with rich garlic butter and fresh herbs. They offer bright seafood flavor with simple preparation, perfect for summer grilling or elegant dinner parties.

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Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

8 wooden or metal skewers

Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.

2. Pat the shrimp dry and thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer.

3. Mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

5. Brush the shrimp skewers generously with the garlic butter mixture.

6. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

7. Brush with additional garlic butter during the last minute of grilling.

8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

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Notes

Use large shrimp (16/20 count) for the best texture on skewers.

Don’t overcook the shrimp – they finish cooking quickly on the grill.

Metal skewers work best but soak wooden ones to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic Butter are bold, buttery, and absolutely unforgettable, the kind of summer appetizer that closes out any gathering on the highest possible note. Fire up the grill and make them tonight. 🍤🧄✨

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