When the craving for something flavorful and fun hits, nothing quite satisfies like grilled shrimp—especially this Texas Roadhouse-inspired version! The delightful aroma of garlic mingling with citrus wafts through your kitchen, instantly transporting you to warmer places. I stumbled upon this quick and easy recipe during my search for a healthy, protein-packed meal that didn’t require hours of prep.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a grill, you can bring the vibrant tastes of Texas right to your dining table in under 20 minutes. Each tender shrimp is perfectly charred, bursting with a garlicky, citrus flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a lively get-together, this dish is sure to impress. Grab your skewers, and let’s get grilling!
Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Quick preparation: This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Flavor explosion: The garlic-citrus marinade brings a vibrant taste that brightens your palate.
Protein-packed: Each serving is not only delicious but ideal for a high-protein diet, helping you stay energized.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with a chilled salad or veggies to make it a complete meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your guests with this easy, restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Jumbo shrimp (16/20) – The star of the dish; peeled and deveined for convenience.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the spices cling to the shrimp; avocado oil can be a lighter substitute.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the flavor profile; fresh juice is ideal, but bottled works in a pinch.
- Fresh parsley (chopped) – Provides a fresh, herbal note; feel free to swap with cilantro for a unique twist.
- Garlic (minced) – Adds a robust aroma; if you’re out of fresh, powdered garlic can be used instead.
For the Seasoning
- Dried oregano – Offers a warm, earthy flavor; marjoram makes a fine substitute.
- Paprika – Infuses a hint of smokiness; using smoked paprika will enhance the dish’s depth.
- Salt & black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust according to your taste.
- Crushed red pepper (optional) – Introduces a kick of heat; modify the amount based on your spice preference.
For Serving
- Lemon wedges (for garnish) – Fresh wedges add a zesty burst of flavor when serving; they elevate this Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp to perfection.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
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Whisk Together: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and all the seasonings to create a flavorful marinade that will infuse your shrimp with zest.
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Marinate Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat them evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature for optimal taste.
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Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. This ensures that the shrimp will sear nicely and develop that irresistible char, cooking them perfectly.
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Skewer the Shrimp: Carefully thread the marinated shrimp onto metal skewers or soaked wooden skewers. Make sure they are packed closely but not overcrowded, allowing even cooking.
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Grill Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp should turn pink and get slightly charred—this is when they’re at their best! Feel free to baste with the leftover marinade while grilling for added flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the shrimp from the grill, serve hot with fresh lemon wedges, and relish this delightful dish alongside your favorite sides, such as a refreshing salad or steamed veggies.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own, adding your favorite flavors and twists!
- Lime Juice: Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty alternative that brightens the flavor profile in a delightful way.
- Avocado Oil: Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a lighter, high-heat cooking option with a mild flavor that complements the shrimp wonderfully.
- Cilantro: For a fresh twist, substitute parsley with cilantro, adding a unique herbaceous note that brings a new layer of flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth and umami to the marinade; it’s perfect for those looking for a richer taste.
- Vegetable Skewers: For added nutrition and color, thread bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms onto the skewers alongside the shrimp, creating a vibrant feast.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding more crushed red pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade for those who love a little fire in their dish!
- Honey or Brown Sugar: A sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey can balance the acidity of the lemon juice and add a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp.
- Smoked Paprika: Instead of regular paprika, use smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the grilled taste and aroma.
Let these variations inspire you to craft an unforgettable grilled shrimp experience!
Expert Tips for Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
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Marinade Time: Allow shrimp to marinate for just 10-15 minutes to avoid the lemon juice altering their texture. Don’t exceed this time.
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Prevent Flare-Ups: Dab off excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups, ensuring even cooking and a lovely char without burning.
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Two Skewers Trick: Use two skewers for each row of shrimp. This prevents them from spinning, allowing for consistent grilling and a perfect sear.
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Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving a juicy interior and crispy exterior on your Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp.
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Basting for Flavor: Consider saving a tablespoon of the marinade before adding the shrimp. Brush it on after grilling for an extra pop of flavor, avoiding contamination from raw seafood.
Make Ahead Options
These Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance—just be sure not to exceed this time to prevent the lemon juice from altering their texture. To prep ahead, combine the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and spices in a bowl, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to grill, simply toss the shrimp in the marinade for about 10-15 minutes and skewer them. This way, you can enjoy a quick, flavorful dinner with minimal effort, making it just as delightful as when freshly made!
Storage Tips for Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure shrimp are cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp later, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat grilled shrimp in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes. This helps retain their juicy texture without overcooking.
Room Temperature: Do not leave shrimp out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours; discard any leftover that exceeds this time to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp?
When you’re ready to spice up your meal, the vibrant flavors of grilled shrimp can shine even brighter when paired with the right sides.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side can balance the richness of the shrimp, offering a refreshing bite that enhances the meal.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavors of cilantro and lime in this rice dish complement the shrimp beautifully, adding a burst of freshness to your plate.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears bring a delightful crunch and earthiness that pairs well with the grilled shrimp’s vibrant profile.
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Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brushed with garlic butter adds a sweet and savory contrast that elevates the whole dining experience.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad helps cleanse the palate with each bite, making it a perfect accompaniment to the shrimp’s rich flavors.
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Strawberry Rhubarb Margarita: For a drink pairing, this cocktail’s sweet and tart profile complements the shrimp while providing a fun twist to your meal.
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Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango paired with the tang of lime brings a tropical flair that beautifully accents the charred zest of the grilled shrimp.
Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the shrimp are fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a mild, ocean-like smell. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over or an overly strong fishy smell, as these indicate they may not be fresh.
Can I store leftovers of the grilled shrimp?
Yes, you can! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure the shrimp are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their freshness and flavor.
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How do I freeze grilled shrimp for later use?
To freeze your Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stove over low heat for about 2-3 minutes.
What should I do if my shrimp are tough?
Ah, a common issue! Tough shrimp usually result from overcooking or marinating too long. For future reference, ensure you only marinate for 10-15 minutes and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side. If they do turn out tough, consider using them diced in a stir-fry, where the added sauces and other ingredients can help to mask the texture.
Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe?
Very! This Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp recipe is low in carbs and high in protein, making it suitable for many diets. However, if you have shellfish allergies or dietary restrictions, simply avoid shrimp and consider substituting with grilled chicken or firm tofu. Always ensure that whichever protein you choose aligns with your dietary needs.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Of course! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead. Just whisk together all the ingredients, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and then add it to your shrimp right before grilling. Just don’t add the shrimp until you’re ready to cook, as you want them to stay fresh!
Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp: Quick & Zesty Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and all the seasonings to create a flavorful marinade.
- Add the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat them evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Heat your grill to medium-high.
- Carefully thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp is pink and charred.
- Remove from the grill, serve hot with fresh lemon wedges.