There’s nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of grilled shrimp wafting through the air on a warm summer evening. This Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp recipe makes it easy to replicate that delightful dining experience right at home. Imagine succulent jumbo shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and paprika, transforming your backyard into a gourmet seafood grill.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply wanting to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish comes together in just 15 minutes, striking the perfect balance between speed and elegance. With this quick recipe, you’ll not only impress your loved ones but also savor each mouthful of juicy shrimp, enhanced by a smoky char that sings of lazy summer barbecues. Let’s fire up the grill and dive into a world where restaurant-quality seafood is just a few steps away!
Why will you love Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp?
Flavor Explosion: The zesty marinade of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and paprika creates a delicious flavor that dances on your palate.
Quick and Easy: Whip up this restaurant-quality dish in just 15 minutes, making weeknight meals feel special.
Versatility: Perfect as a main dish or a stunning appetizer, adaptable to fit any occasion or palate.
Impressive Presentation: Juicy, grilled shrimp on skewers not only taste amazing but look gorgeous on your dining table.
Healthy Option: Low-calorie and packed with protein, this dish aligns perfectly with your wellness goals.
Elevate your dining experience at home with these delightful shrimp; you’ll never crave fast food again!
Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp Ingredients
-
For the Shrimp
-
Jumbo Shrimp (16/20 count) – The centerpiece of this dish, providing a meaty texture perfect for grilling.
-
For the Marinade
-
Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps create a delightful crust on the shrimp; coconut oil can be used for a tropical twist.
-
Lemon Juice – Enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and brightness; lime juice works well for a zesty alternative.
-
Garlic – Infuses essential aromatic depth; always opt for fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
-
Paprika – Introduces a subtle smoky flavor; swap for Cajun seasoning if you’re after a bit more heat.
-
Salt and Pepper – Seasoning essentials to enhance all other flavors; adjust according to your taste.
-
Optional Serving
-
Reserved Marinade – Set aside some marinade before adding shrimp to use as a dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
-
Soak the Skewers: Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents burning and ensures your shrimp cook evenly on the grill.
-
Whisk the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. This aromatic blend will infuse your shrimp with mouthwatering flavor.
-
Marinate the Shrimp: Gently add the jumbo shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them marinate for up to 20 minutes—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully without making the shrimp mushy.
-
Preheat the Grill: While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high direct heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to create a delightful char.
-
Thread the Shrimp: Carefully skewer the marinated shrimp onto your soaked skewers, laying them flat. This not only makes for an appealing presentation but also ensures even cooking.
-
Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the hot grill, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that perfect pink color and a slight curl to indicate they’re done.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once grilled to perfection, serve the shrimp immediately. If you’d like, reserve some marinade before adding it to the shrimp and use it as a delightful dipping sauce.
Optional: Garnish your shrimp with fresh parsley or a squeeze of additional lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak up all that delicious garlic and paprika goodness. Simply prepare the marinade, add the shrimp, and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to grill, skewer the shrimp and heat your grill to medium-high. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully pink and curled. This prep-ahead method not only makes your life easier but also guarantees restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, perfect for impressing family and friends!
Storage Tips for Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
- Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp in airtight containers for optimal freshness; they last up to 3 days. To retain moisture, reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.
- Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing cooked shrimp, as the texture may become watery upon thawing. Enjoy them fresh for the best experience.
- Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked shrimp out at room temperature for more than 2 hours; this helps maintain food safety and quality.
- Reheating: For delightful results, reheat shrimp gently. Consider using some reserved marinade to keep them moist.
Expert Tips for Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
- Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh jumbo shrimp (16/20 count) to ensure they remain meaty and juicy when grilled. Frozen shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Marinate Wisely: Allow shrimp to marinate for up to 20 minutes only; longer can result in a mushy texture due to the acidity of lemon juice.
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat to medium-high heat before grilling—this helps achieve that savory char without overcooking the shrimp.
- Watch Cooking Time: Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking leads to tough, rubbery shrimp; look for an opaque pink color.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try substituting the paprika for Cajun seasoning or add a dash of honey for a sweet twist in your Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp.
What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp?
Creating a memorable meal is all about the delightful pairings that elevate your grilled shrimp experience.
- Garlic Butter Rice Pilaf: The buttery rice complements the shrimp’s smoky char, creating a comforting, flavorful side.
- Crisp Caesar Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy romaine and zesty dressing balances the richness of the shrimp. Enjoy the contrast of textures!
- Grilled Vegetables: Keep it vibrant with charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. These veggies add a delicious touch of color and health.
- Coconut Rice: The creamy sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with shrimp, making each bite feel like a tropical getaway.
- Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp white wine enhances the citrus notes of the dish, providing a refreshing sip that complements the dinner.
- Sweet Mango Salsa: Bright, fruity salsa not only livens up the plate but also adds a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the shrimp.
- Lemon Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread infused with garlic and lemon for a delightful bite that soaks up the shrimp’s juices.
- Peach Cobbler: Finish the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its sweetness juxtaposes the savory shrimp beautifully.
- Herb-Infused Quinoa: Light and nutty, quinoa tossed with fresh herbs makes a nutritious and complementary base for the grilled shrimp.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: This refreshing salad offers a refreshing burst of sweetness and saltiness that works harmoniously with the grilled flavors.
Variations & Substitutions for Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Let your creativity shine and make this dish uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
-
Sea Scallop Swap: Use large sea scallops in place of shrimp for a sophisticated twist; they grill beautifully and offer a buttery texture.
-
Honey Boost: Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
-
Zesty Lime: Swap lemon juice for fresh lime juice for a tangy, refreshing pop that enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
-
Cajun Kick: Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning for a spicy, bold flavor profile that’ll wake up your taste buds.
-
Vegetable Skewers: Include vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion on the skewers for a colorful, flavorful medley alongside the shrimp.
-
Coconut Rice Base: Serve shrimp over coconut rice to complement the grilled flavors and add a lovely tropical flair.
-
Garlic Butter Finish: Brush grilled shrimp with garlic herb butter as soon as they come off the grill for an indulgent, rich finish.
-
Chili Flake Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes in the marinade for a spicy kick that’ll ignite more than just your palate!
With these variations, your shrimp can sing in a symphony of flavors, making every meal a new adventure. Enjoy each delicious bite!
Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh jumbo shrimp (16/20 count) for the best texture and flavor. Larger shrimp hold up well on the grill and provide that delightful meaty bite. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, high-quality frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they’re thawed completely before marinating for optimal results.
How should I store leftover grilled shrimp?
Store any leftover grilled shrimp in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of the reserved marinade to help retain moisture.
Can I freeze cooked shrimp?
It’s best to avoid freezing cooked shrimp, as this can lead to a watery texture when thawed. However, if you must freeze, place the shrimp in a tightly sealed freezer bag, forcing out as much air as possible. Consume within 1-2 months, and when ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out tough?
If you accidentally overcook your shrimp, the texture can become rubbery. To prevent this, monitor the cooking time closely; grill each side for only 2-3 minutes until they are opaque and curled into a “C” shape. If you’re noticing they’re tough, try marinating them for a shorter period next time, no more than 20 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! This Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in calories, making it suitable for most dietary needs. However, it’s essential to look out for possible allergens; for instance, those allergic to shellfish should avoid this dish entirely. If marinating, ensure that your olive oil and any substitutes are safe for those with specific dietary restrictions.
Can I adjust the marinade ingredients?
Very much so! You can swap the olive oil for melted coconut oil for a tropical flavor or use lime juice instead of lemon juice if you prefer a zesty twist. Additionally, you can increase the paprika or substitute with a bit of Cajun seasoning for extra spice. Feel free to experiment and tailor the marinade to your taste!
Grill Perfect Texas Roadhouse Shrimp in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add jumbo shrimp to the marinade and let them marinate for up to 20 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high direct heat.
- Skewer the marinated shrimp onto soaked skewers.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and slightly curled.
- Serve the shrimp immediately, optionally using reserved marinade as a dipping sauce.