If you’ve ever dined at Texas Roadhouse, chances are you’ve fallen head over heels for their legendary grilled shrimp. I know I have! There’s something about that juicy, perfectly seasoned seafood that just hits the spot. And while the restaurant experience is always fun, sometimes you just crave that Texas Roadhouse shrimp recipe goodness from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Well, buckle up, because today I’m spilling all the secrets to recreating that iconic Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp at home. We’ll cover everything from the essentials to tasty variations – you’ll be a shrimp grilling pro in no time!
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Key Takeaways
- Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp is a beloved favorite for its incredible flavor and simple preparation.
- The perfect Texas Roadhouse shrimp relies on a few key ingredients: fresh shrimp, a zesty marinade, and the right grilling technique.
- With a little practice and the right recipe, you can create this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
What Makes Texas Roadhouse Grilled Shrimp So Special?
Let’s break down what makes this dish so irresistible:
- The Signature Seasoning: It’s a perfect blend of savory and zesty – a little garlic, a hint of paprika, and the right balance of herbs.
- Restaurant-Quality Texture: They nail that tender but slightly firm shrimp that lets you know it’s cooked to perfection.
- Versatile Goodness: Enjoy it as a satisfying appetizer, a light and healthy side dish, or even the star of your next seafood feast.
- Surprisingly Simple: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly.
Ingredients and Essential Equipment
Let’s start by gathering everything you need:
Ingredients
- Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp (around 16/20 count per pound) are ideal. Get them peeled, deveined, and with the tails on for the classic Texas Roadhouse look.
- The Marinade:
- Olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Dried oregano
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan: Either works! Just aim for that medium-high heat.
- Skewers: Metal or wooden (if wooden, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning).
- Mixing Bowl: For tossing your shrimp in all that delicious marinade.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Add your shrimp to the marinade, toss them well so each one is coated in that delicious flavor, Cover, and let it all hang out in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Pro tip: Marinate for longer (up to a few hours) for even more intense flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Crank up that heat to medium-high. We want a nice hot surface to get that perfect sear on our shrimp.
- Skewer Time: Thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little bit of space between each one for even cooking.
- Grill It Up: Place your skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and slightly pink. Be careful – overcooked shrimp gets rubbery, and that’s a big no-no!
- Serve and Enjoy: Take those beauties off the grill and get ready to feast! Garnish with some chopped parsley and lemon wedges for an extra touch of freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Texas Roadhouse Shrimp
- Fresh is Best: High-quality shrimp makes all the difference. If possible, ask your fishmonger for the freshest they’ve got.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re grilling in batches, give your shrimp some breathing room. Crowding leads to uneven cooking.
- Basting is Boss (Optional): For that extra touch of decadence, melt a little butter and brush it over the shrimp during the last minute or two of grilling.
- Don’t Forget the Temp: If you’re unsure about doneness, a meat thermometer comes in handy. Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Texas Roadhouse Shrimp Recipe Variations
Once you master the classic, it’s time for some flavorful fun!
- Spice Things Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.
- Cajun Vibes: Substitute your favorite Cajun seasoning for the traditional spices in the marinade. It’s a flavor explosion!
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Amp up the garlic with an extra clove or two, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Herb Garden Goodness: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped basil or thyme for an extra layer of freshness.
Okay, let’s keep the momentum going! Here’s more content, continuing with an emphasis on adding value through tables, facts, and figures.
Nutritional Information
Knowing what you’re eating is important, especially when you’re making healthier choices. Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown for a typical serving of Texas Roadhouse-style grilled shrimp:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx. 4 oz) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120-150 |
| Protein | 20-25 grams |
| Fat | 2-3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 0-1 gram |
| Sodium | 200-300 mg |
Helpful Tables for Your Shrimp Journey
Let’s make things even easier with some handy tables!
Marinade Ingredient Variations
| Flavor Twist | Marinade Additions |
|---|---|
| Spicy Kick | Cayenne pepper, chili powder, red pepper flakes |
| Cajun Flair | Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade) |
| Garlic Heaven | Extra minced garlic, garlic powder |
| Mediterranean Vibes | Lemon zest, dried oregano, chopped Kalamata olives |
| Asian Inspiration | Soy sauce, sesame oil, a touch of ginger |
Shrimp Size and Cooking Time
| Shrimp Size (count per pound) | Approximate Grill Time per Side |
|---|---|
| Jumbo (16/20) | 2-3 minutes |
| Large (21/25) | 1.5-2 minutes |
| Medium (26/30) | 1-1.5 minutes |
FAQs
How long to marinate Texas Roadhouse shrimp?
A minimum of 30 minutes in the marinade is essential to infuse those delicious flavors. However, for a deeper, richer taste, you can marinate your shrimp for up to a few hours in the refrigerator. Just avoid marinating for much longer, as the acidity of the lemon juice can start to break down the texture of the shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Texas Roadhouse shrimp?
Yes, you absolutely can! The key is to thaw them properly. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker thaw, place the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Just remember to pat them dry thoroughly before adding them to the marinade.
What to serve with Texas Roadhouse shrimp?
Seasoned Rice: A classic Texas Roadhouse side that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Simple Salad: A light, refreshing salad with vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness of the shrimp.
Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers – anything you have in the fridge!
Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any leftover marinade or delicious shrimp juices.
Can I cook Texas Roadhouse shrimp in the oven/air fryer?
Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the shrimp for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
How to store leftover Texas Roadhouse shrimp?
Leftover shrimp will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold in salads or reheat them gently in a pan or microwave.
Texas Roadhouse Shrimp Recipe: Conclusion
There you have it! With these secrets and tips, you’re well on your way to recreating the magic of Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp in your own kitchen. The key takeaways are freshness, a flavorful marinade, and just the right amount of grill time. Remember, the beauty of this recipe is its versatility – experiment with different spices and variations to find your perfect flavor combination.
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