Name: Savory Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp for a Summer Feast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (shell-on for robustness); 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or lime juice as alternative); ½ cup butter (or olive oil for lighter option); 4 cloves garlic (fresh minced or garlic powder); 1 ripe avocado (or substitute with Greek yogurt); ¼ cup chopped cilantro (or parsley as alternative); 1 lime juice (or lemon juice as alternative); to taste salt (sea salt or kosher salt)

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The sizzle of shrimp on a hot grill is like music to my ears, transporting me straight to a sun-soaked summer evening. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp, perfectly seasoned and kissed by flame, served on a stick for easy enjoyment. This dish brings two fantastic benefits to your table: it’s not only quick to whip up in just 20 minutes, but it also makes for a delightful summer appetizer that’ll leave your guests raving. Paired with a creamy cilantro lime avocado dip, each bite offers a tantalizing contrast of spicy and cool. Ready to elevate your grilling game and impress friends and family? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Butter Shrimp

Quick and Easy: You’ll be amazed that this mouthwatering dish can be ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for unexpected guests or busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic butter glaze combined with the vibrant Cajun seasoning makes every bite a taste sensation that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Summer Vibes: Perfect for outdoor grilling, these skewers not only smell fantastic but also look incredibly appetizing. They’re an ideal dish for summer barbecues, where you can serve them alongside a refreshing salad or maybe some delicious Ranch Garlic Parmesan skewers for a complete spread.

Crowd-Pleaser: The contrast of flavors between the spicy shrimp and creamy cilantro lime avocado dip is sure to impress your guests, making it a sensational addition to any gathering.

Versatile Dish: Not just limited to shrimp, the easy Cajun seasoning can also be used for chicken or even balsamic caprese grilled steak, making it a versatile option for all your cookouts.

Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp Ingredients

• Get ready to delight your taste buds!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Choose large, shell-on shrimp for a more robust flavor.
Cajun Seasoning – This spice blend adds an incredible kick; homemade or store-bought work perfectly.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the shrimp’s flavor; lime juice is a great alternative if you prefer.

For the Garlic Butter

Butter – Adds essential richness; feel free to use olive oil for a lighter touch.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic offers aromatic flavor; garlic powder can speed up the prep if you’re short on time.

For the Dipping Sauce

Avocado – A creamy base for the dip; make sure it’s ripe, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Cilantro – Brings fresh notes to the sauce; if you’re not a fan, parsley can step in perfectly.
Lime Juice – Enhances the avocado flavor; lemon juice is a delicious alternative.
Salt – Use to taste; sea salt or kosher salt are excellent choices for seasoning.

Keep this list handy as you prepare your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp, a dish that’s sure to impress with its delightful flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Prep Garlic Butter
Begin by melting ½ cup of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add 4 cloves of finely chopped garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. This garlic butter will add richness to your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp, so ensure it doesn’t burn. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Season Shrimp
In a large bowl, take 1 pound of large shrimp and coat them thoroughly with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Mix gently, ensuring each shrimp is evenly covered with the spices. This step is crucial for achieving that bold flavor in your grilled shrimp. Let the seasoned shrimp sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the grill.

Step 3: Preheat Grill
Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. This setup will help you achieve a nice char on your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp. Make sure the grill grates are clean, allowing for beautiful grill marks.

Step 4: Skewer the Shrimp
Carefully thread the seasoned shrimp onto the skewers, placing them close together but not overcrowding. This arrangement will help them cook evenly. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer. Once ready, transfer the skewers to the preheated grill, ensuring they have a little space between them for proper heat circulation.

Step 5: Grill Shrimp
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; they should turn opaque and slightly charred when done. The grill time may depend on the size of your shrimp, so adjust accordingly. Once cooked through, briefly remove the skewers from the grill to apply the garlic butter glaze.

Step 6: Apply Glaze
While the Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp are still hot, use a brush to generously coat them with the prepared garlic butter mixture and a squeeze of lemon juice. This step will enhance the flavor and add a luscious finish to each succulent shrimp. Let the glaze soak in for a moment while you prepare the dipping sauce.

Step 7: Make Dipping Sauce
In a medium bowl, mash 1 ripe avocado and mix in ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, the juice of 1 lime, and salt to taste. Stir until smooth and creamy. This cilantro lime avocado dip complements the spicy shrimp beautifully, offering a cooling contrast. Prepare to serve once everything is ready!

Step 8: Serve
Arranging your skewers artistically on a platter, serve the Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp alongside the creamy avocado dip. This presentation not only looks enticing but also invites guests to dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors. Your summer feast is now ready to be savored!

Make Ahead Options

These Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can season the shrimp and skewer them up to 24 hours in advance; simply coat them with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep their flavor intact. The garlic butter can also be prepared ahead and stored separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this delectable dish, heat the grill and simply grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through, then brush with the warmed garlic butter. With this prep, you’ll have a delicious and quick meal ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Crafting the perfect meal to complement succulent shrimp is all about balance, flavor, and enjoyment.

Zesty Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, refreshing element that pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp, enhancing each bite.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The aroma of warm, buttery garlic bread brings comfort and richness, perfect for soaking up the extra avocado dip.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender, charred asparagus brings a slightly smoky flavor that makes each mouthful even more exciting.
Sweet Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of sweet corn, bell peppers, and lime elevates your dish with a burst of color and flavor.
Watermelon Feta Salad: This sweet and tangy dish offers a cooling contrast, perfect after spicy shrimp indulgence; each bite refreshes the palate.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc not only highlights the flavors of the shrimp but also adds a touch of elegance to your gathering.

Enjoying these flavorful side dishes with your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp brings your summer feast to life, offering a memorable dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the grilled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain the succulent texture.

Room Temperature: It’s best to serve the shrimp immediately after grilling; avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours to minimize any food safety risks.

Expert Tips for Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Perfect Timing: Ensure shrimp are cooked for just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery; they should be opaque and slightly bouncy.
Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents burning and helps maintain your delicious Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp’s presentation.
Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add cayenne pepper to your Cajun seasoning blend. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Stay Vigilant: When grilling, keep an eye on shrimp as they cook. They can go from perfectly charred to overdone very quickly.
Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocado for the dipping sauce to achieve that creamy texture. If it’s not ripe, consider Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative.

Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp Variations

Feel free to make this scrumptious dish your own with these fun twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil or avocado oil to cater to a dairy-free lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
This simple substitution will keep your shrimp rich and delicious while accommodating different dietary needs.
Extra Zesty: Add more flavor by incorporating lime zest into the avocado dip.
This brightens the dish and enhances the cilantro and lime flavors in every creamy bite.
Spicy Cajun: For those who crave heat, toss in a dash of cayenne pepper when coating the shrimp.
The extra spice will make your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp truly fiery, capturing that Southern kick.
Fruit and Veggie Boost: Slide on some diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks on the skewers before grilling.
These add a sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the spiciness of the shrimp.
Herb Variations: If you’re not a cilantro fan, substitute it with parsley or dill in the dipping sauce for a fresh take.
This can give the dish a whole new aromatic profile, making it just as appealing.
Swap Proteins: Try using chicken or firm fish such as swordfish or salmon instead of shrimp for a different protein twist.
Simply use the same Cajun seasoning to keep the flavors bold and vibrant.
Garlic Lovers: More garlic never hurt anybody! You can add additional minced garlic to both the shrimp and the dipping sauce.
Trying roasted garlic in the dip will also create a smooth, deep flavor that pairs well with the shrimp.
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, substitute shrimp with hearty mushrooms or grilled eggplant slices.
Both options will absorb that lovely garlic butter, keeping the dish satisfying without the seafood.

Ready to elevate your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp experience? These variations will not only enhance flavor but also cater to your guests’ preferences. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose large, shell-on shrimp. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than smaller varieties. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen works perfectly too; just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even seasoning.

How should I store leftover Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp?
You can store leftover Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them tasting fresh, ensure the container is sealed tightly. If you’re planning to keep them longer, follow the freezing instructions below!

Can I freeze Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze the shrimp, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer the shrimp to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. For the best quality, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat the grilled shrimp?
I recommend reheating your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp on the grill or in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps to retain their delicious texture and prevents them from becoming rubbery.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is gluten-free and low-carb, making it a great option for various dietary needs. However, always check the Cajun seasoning you use for gluten content. If anyone at your gathering has shellfish allergies, it’s best to offer an alternative protein option, like grilled chicken or tofu, seasoned similarly with the Cajun spices.