Garlic-Butter Shrimp Skewers 🍋 – 10-Minute Thanksgiving Appetizer
Add a touch of surf-to-turf with these quick garlic-butter shrimp skewers, ready in just ten minutes! Perfect for a fast, elegant starter that pairs beautifully with any Thanksgiving feast.
These buttery shrimp skewers are the ultimate Thanksgiving game-changer. With just three main ingredients and a handful of minutes, you can serve up irresistibly caramelized, juicy shrimp that feel fancy but are incredibly simple to make. Whether you're hosting a holiday spread or looking for a quick holiday appetizer that doesn't compromise on flavor, these skewers add a perfect touch of sophistication to any Thanksgiving table. The golden-brown crust from the grill, the rich garlic-butter base, and the zingy lemon finish work together to create something that's equal parts comfort food and gourmet.
This recipe is perfect for last-minute Thanksgiving guests, holiday entertaining on a budget, or whenever you want to impress without the hassle. The shrimp skewers cook in just 8 minutes on the grill, making them one of the fastest holiday appetizers you can make. They're also incredibly versatile—serve them warm with crusty bread for a decadent antipasto board or chilled in a charcuterie spread for a refreshing seafood twist.
What makes these shrimp skewers truly special is the combination of techniques. The garlic-butter marinade infuses the shrimp with savory richness, while the quick grilling gives them that perfect charred crust. A splash of lemon juice at the end adds brightness to balance the buttery flavor. The result is something that feels like a special occasion treat but requires absolutely no complicated skills.
For Thanksgiving, you can't get much better than this: a showstopping appetizer that arrives on the table in under ten minutes, requires just one pan for prep, and cleans up in seconds. They're also incredibly customizable—you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top, or even use different types of seafood like scallops or salmon for variety.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 24 medium shrimp)
- ¼ cup (0.5 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 ½ tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 8-10 metal or soaked wooden skewers
- Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until fully combined to create your garlic-butter marinade.
- Step 2: Add the peeled shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the marinade. Let sit for 2-3 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to infuse into the shrimp.
- Step 3: Thread 2-3 shrimp onto each skewer. For even cooking, try to alternate sizes so no skewer has particularly thick or thin shrimp. If using wooden skewers, ensure they've been soaked for 30+ minutes before threading to prevent burning.
- Step 4: Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they're lightly covered with white ash for even heat distribution.
- Step 5: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are completely opaque with nice charred lines (they'll turn bright pink and slightly curved).
- Step 6: Brush the tops of the skewers with any remaining marinade while grilling for extra flavor and a lovely caramelization. Remove from heat immediately when the shrimp reach the desired doneness—grilled seafood cook time is quick!
- Step 7: Transfer the shrimp skewers to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while still hot, or chill slightly for a refreshing appetizer variation.
Garlic-Butter Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Elegant 10-minute Thanksgiving appetizer with bold, buttery flavors
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- - ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- - 4 garlic cloves, minced
- - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- - ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- - ½ teaspoon black pepper
- - ¼ teaspoon paprika
👨🍳 Instructions
Mix marinade: In a large bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (optional).
💡 Whisk everything together until fully emulsified for maximum flavor.
Marinate shrimp: Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Let marinate for 2-3 minutes.
💡 Don't overmarinate - the acidic lemon juice can start to "cook" the shrimp.
Skewer shrimp: Thread 2-3 shrimp per skewer, alternating sizes for even cooking.
💡 Soak wooden skewers for 30+ minutes to prevent charring.
Grill skewers: Cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until charred and opaque.
💡 Brush additional marinade on during grilling for extra flavor.
Garnish and serve: Transfer to a platter and garnish with fresh herbs.
💡 Add a lemon wedge for presentation and extra zest.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Shrimp
Large shrimp (21/25 count) work best for skewering, but you can use medium shrimp (31/35 count) in smaller portions. Avoid using tiny shrimp as they'll cook too quickly and may fall off the skewers.
Substitution: You can substitute with scallops, salmon cubes, or even chicken breast (adjust cooking time accordingly).
Butter
Unsalted butter gives you full control over the seasoning balance. The richness of butter is essential for that luxurious garlic-butter flavor that coats the shrimp.
Substitution: Can use olive oil (especially infused olive oil) for a lighter version, though it won't give the same depth of flavor.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is crucial here—it caramelizes beautifully on the skewers during grilling, creating those perfect golden-brown marks. Minced garlic is recommended for even distribution.
Tip: Add the garlic at the last minute to prevent burning. For extra bold flavor, use roasted garlic.
Lemon
Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness that cuts through the buttery richness. Bottled juice won't give the same fresh, zingy flavor you're looking for with Thanksgiving shrimp skewers.
Substitution: You can use lime juice instead for a different flavor profile.
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic-Butter Shrimp Skewers
✨ Flavor Boost
Double the garlic! 6-8 cloves intensifies the buttery garlic flavor. The extra garlic caramelizes beautifully on the skewers during grilling, creating that perfect charred crust while keeping the shrimp juicy inside.
🔥 Grilling Success
Use a preheated grill pan for consistent sear marks. If using an outdoor grill, let the coals burn until covered with white ash for even heat distribution. Avoid crowding the skewers to prevent steaming instead of searing.
⏱️ Time Management
Marinate just 2-3 minutes at room temperature. The acid in the lemon juice starts "cooking" the shrimp if left too long, which makes them rubbery. Add all the spices to the marinade for even seasoning.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread for dipping (like grilled baguette slices) or over a bed of arugula for a light salad option. Garnish with lemon wedges for extra brightness and presentation flair.
Variations & Customizations
Herb-Infused Version
Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) to the marinade for a more aromatic flavor profile. This works especially well for a holiday appetizer that feels more elevated.
Asian-Inspired Twist
Replace regular garlic with 1 teaspoon of ginger paste and add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce to the marinade. Top with sesame seeds for an East-meets-West flavor combination that works beautifully at Thanksgiving.
Low-Fat Option
Replace half the butter with olive oil and reduce salt slightly. This keeps the bold lemon-garlic flavor but lightens the overall richness for healthier eating.
Cheese Board Combo
Make a shrimp and cheese board by serving these skewers alongside cured meats, soft cheeses like brie or camembert, and honey for a decadent, holiday-ready charcuterie option.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Crusty baguette slices for soaking up the garlic-butter flavor
- Roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete Thanksgiving starter
- Cheese board accompaniments like aged cheddar or goat cheese
- Simple green salad to balance the richness of the skewers
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon and cucumber would work beautifully. For a holiday twist, serve with a light ale or lager.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the garlic-butter marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, combine with fresh shrimp just before grilling.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're best enjoyed fresh, but cold shrimp skewers make a great snack or light lunch option.
Freezer Storage
Cooked skewers can be frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze them thawed on foil or parchment paper for easy retrieval. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
For best flavor, reheat skewers in a hot pan with a bit of butter rather than the microwave. This helps restore the nice crust without drying out the shrimp. You can also grill them briefly again.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from drying out?
A: Don't overcooke the shrimp. Remove the skewers from heat as soon as the shrimp turn opaque and slightly curled. Grilled shrimp cook very quickly - about 3-4 minutes per side max.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, use quick-frozen shrimp that have been thawed completely. Pat dry with paper towels before using to ensure they cook properly on the skewers. Avoid using thawed shrimp if they're already moist.
Q: How to adjust for different quantities?
A: Maintain the same marinade ratio for any quantity of shrimp. If you're increasing the batch size, use a separate bowl to ensure thorough coating. For large quantities, cook in batches to avoid crowding on the grill.
Q: Can I make these without a grill?
A: Absolutely! These work perfectly in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop (preheated to medium-high heat) or in a broiler. Place on broiler pan for 3-4 minutes, flipping once, until nicely browned.
Final Thoughts
These garlic-butter shrimp skewers are the perfect blend of fast, fancy, and fuss-free—exactly what you need for a Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for a special appetizer for the holidays, they deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. The charred edges from the grill add a beautiful contrast to the rich, garlicky butter, and the lemon zest prevents them from being too heavy.
As a holiday appetizer, they're practically unmatched in their simplicity and elegance. They'll be the first thing to disappear at your Thanksgiving table, and your guests will be asking for the recipe again and again. Don't forget to make extra—if you're anything like me, you'll be tempted to eat them all warm with a nice crusty roll right out of the pan!
