Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on; 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, melted; 3 tsp Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Skewers (wooden or metal); Optional: lemon slices for garnish

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These Cajun Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers are loaded with bold Cajun flavors and a rich, buttery garlic sauce that grills into perfection. It’s an easy dish that works as both a mouthwatering appetizer or a satisfying main course. The shrimp are juicy, slightly charred, and infused with zesty lemon, garlic, and Cajun seasoning that keeps me coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and simple this recipe is to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts. The Cajun garlic butter adds a luxurious, spicy kick that coats every bite of shrimp with flavor. The skewers also make a great presentation and are super fun to eat. Plus, they’re easily customizable, and I can cook them on an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan depending on the season.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
1 stick Danish Creamery European-Style Sea Salt Butter, melted
3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Skewers
Optional: Lemon slices for garnish

Directions

If I’m using wooden skewers, I always soak them in water for about 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill.
In a bowl, I whisk together the melted butter, 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice. I set aside half of the sauce to use later for basting.
I place the shrimp in a large bowl, pour the remaining half of the Cajun garlic butter sauce over them, and add the last teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. I toss everything together to make sure the shrimp are fully coated.
Then I thread the shrimp onto the skewers and place them on a sheet pan.
I preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill each skewer for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
Just before serving, I brush the skewers with the remaining Cajun garlic butter sauce. If the sauce solidifies, I warm it up in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
I like to serve the skewers with fresh lemon slices for an extra zing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: I sometimes add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Herb swap: Instead of parsley, I use cilantro or chives when I want a twist in flavor.
Protein switch: I’ve made this same recipe with scallops or chunks of firm white fish like halibut.
Veggie addition: I like threading in bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes between the shrimp for color and texture.
Oven broiled: When I can’t grill, I broil the skewers in the oven for about 3-4 minutes per side.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I keep the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of butter or lemon juice, just until warmed through. I avoid microwaving too long to prevent rubbery shrimp.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

I usually go for large or jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined, but still have the tails on for easy skewering and presentation.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often marinate the shrimp in the Cajun butter sauce a few hours ahead, then just skewer and grill them when I’m ready.

What’s the best way to grill shrimp without overcooking them?

I grill the shrimp over medium-high heat and only cook them for about 3–4 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, I pull them off.

Can I make this without a grill?

Absolutely—I use a stovetop grill pan or even broil them in the oven if I don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

What can I serve with these shrimp skewers?

I usually serve them with rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh garden salad. They also work great in tacos or on top of pasta.

Conclusion

These Cajun Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers are one of my go-to recipes when I want something flavorful, easy, and impressive. The Cajun seasoning mixed with rich, garlicky butter and a splash of lemon gives the shrimp incredible depth. Whether I’m entertaining or making a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe always hits the spot.