Cajun BBQ Shrimp

Cajun BBQ Shrimp features juicy grilled shrimp coated in bold Cajun spices, served with a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce, and garnished with fresh chives for a Southern-style seafood feast full of flavor and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun BBQ Shrimp recipe brings a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy elements to your table. The shrimp are quick to grill and beautifully seasoned, while the luscious garlic butter sauce enhances every bite. Ideal for casual summer cookouts or an indulgent weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and bursting with Southern charm.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count per pound)
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 1/2 tablespoons store-bought minced garlic)
• 1–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
• Wooden BBQ skewers (optional)

Directions

1. Remove the shrimp shells, leaving the tails attached.
2. Thread each shrimp onto wooden BBQ skewers if desired.
3. Season the shrimp generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning.
4. Preheat your grill to 450°F (232°C).
5. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. In a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
7. Sauté the diced shallot in the butter until translucent.
8. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
10. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
11. Arrange the grilled shrimp neatly on a serving platter.
12. Drizzle the creamy garlic butter sauce generously over the shrimp.
13. Garnish with fresh chopped chives and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 580 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for more heat.
• Lemon Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving for added brightness.
• Skillet Version: Skip the skewers and cook the shrimp directly in a cast iron skillet.
• Low-Carb Side: Serve with cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad for a low-carb meal.
• Smoky Flavor: Use a smoker or add wood chips to the grill for an even deeper smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or butter to revive the sauce.
Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long to prevent overcooking and toughening.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and grilling.

What is the best Cajun seasoning?

A blend containing paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and herbs works best; choose one with no added sugar for better control of flavors.

Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

Is it necessary to use skewers?

No, you can grill the shrimp directly on the grates or cook them in a grill basket.

How do I keep shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates lightly before cooking and make sure the grill is hot enough.

Can I use other seafood?

Yes, scallops or lobster tails would also work well with this preparation.

What side dishes pair best with Cajun BBQ shrimp?

Corn on the cob, coleslaw, dirty rice, or crusty bread are excellent options.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning used; adjust to taste.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It is not recommended, as pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when grilled.

Conclusion

Cajun BBQ Shrimp delivers bold Southern flavors with minimal effort, combining juicy grilled shrimp, a creamy garlic butter sauce, and a kick of Cajun spice for an unforgettable seafood feast. Perfect for family dinners, backyard gatherings, or special occasions, this dish brings vibrant taste and irresistible richness to any meal.

Cajun BBQ Shrimp

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Bring bold Southern flavor to your table with this Cajun BBQ Shrimp — juicy grilled shrimp seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, finished with a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce, and topped with fresh chives for the ultimate comfort meal. #cajunshrimp #bbqshrimp

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish, Seafood
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Cajun
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 count per pound)

• 1 stick unsalted butter

• 1 shallot, finely diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 1/2 tablespoons store-bought minced garlic)

• 1-2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

• Wooden BBQ skewers (optional)

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Instructions

1. Remove the shrimp shells, leaving the tails attached.

2. Thread shrimp onto wooden BBQ skewers if using.

3. Season the shrimp generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning.

4. Preheat the grill to 450°F (232°C).

5. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

6. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a cast iron skillet over medium heat.

7. Sauté the diced shallot until translucent.

8. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

9. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

10. Arrange the grilled shrimp neatly on a platter.

11. Drizzle the creamy garlic butter sauce generously over the shrimp.

12. Garnish with fresh chopped chives and serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or pair with grits or rice for a heartier meal.

• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to maintain a juicy texture.