Wisconsin Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Introduction
These Wisconsin Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are a quick and flavorful grilling favorite. Lightly marinated in rich garlic butter, these skewers are grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, locking in the juiciness with a touch of smoke. Perfect for a summer evening or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Discover how easy it is to create restaurant-quality shrimp at home using the unique searing power and even cooking surface of the Arteflame grill.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Fire up your Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of your Arteflame grill.
- Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
- Light the napkins and allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes. The center grill grate will reach over 1,000°F — ideal for searing.
Step 2: Prepare the shrimp marinade
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
- Let the shrimp marinate while the grill heats up (10–15 minutes is enough).
Step 3: Skewer the shrimp
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, about 5–6 shrimp per skewer.
Step 4: Grill the shrimp
- Place the skewers on the hot center grill grate of the Arteflame to sear each side quickly (about 30–45 seconds per side) to lock in the juices.
- Move them to the hotter part of the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking gently, about 2–3 minutes more, until pink and firm.
- Remove the shrimp when the internal temperature reaches 120°F (they will carry over cook to 135°F).
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with extra parsley and fresh lemon wedges.
Tips
- Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor and better sear on the flat cooktop.
- The flat griddle gets hotter toward the center — perfect for finishing the shrimp fast without overcooking.
- Do not over-marinate shrimp as the lemon juice can begin to “cook” them.
- Remove the shrimp slightly under temperature as carryover cooking will finish them perfectly.
Variations
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Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skewers: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne to the marinade for a Southern kick.
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Honey Lime Shrimp Skewers: Replace lemon juice with lime juice and add 1 tablespoon honey for a sweet and tangy flavor.
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Asian Garlic Shrimp Skewers: Mix in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil for Asian-inspired aromas.
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Smoky Paprika Shrimp Skewers: Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of chili flakes for a deep, smoky taste.
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Pesto Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Swap garlic butter for 3 tablespoons of fresh basil pesto in the marinade for an herby twist.
Conclusion
This Wisconsin Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewer recipe is a grilled seafood dream. With the high sear and even cooking of the Arteflame grill, you get picture-perfect results every time. The buttery garlic marinade infuses a delicious flavor, making this an unforgettable grill favorite you’ll come back to all summer long.
Best Pairings
- Grilled corn on the cob with lime butter
- Arteflame grilled zucchini ribbons with lemon and parmesan
- Cold Wisconsin craft beer like an IPA or Pilsner
- Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Grilled garlic bread on the Arteflame flat top