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Flavorful Firecracker Spicy Shrimp Skewers with Jalapeño Lime Butter

firecracker spicy shrimp skewers - featured image

These spicy shrimp skewers feature a bold firecracker spice blend and a creamy jalapeño lime butter, delivering a perfect balance of heat, zest, and buttery richness. Quick and easy to prepare, they are ideal for summer gatherings and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (leave seeds in for extra heat)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if wooden)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapeño Lime Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced jalapeño, lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Mix the Firecracker Spice Blend: In a separate bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to blend evenly.
  3. Prep the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss shrimp with olive oil in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  4. Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the firecracker spice blend over the shrimp and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Skewer the Shrimp: Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving space between each shrimp.
  6. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan: Heat grill to medium-high (375-400°F). If using grill pan, preheat over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
  7. Grill the Skewers: Cook shrimp skewers 2-3 minutes per side until pink with slight char marks. Avoid overcooking.
  8. Brush with Jalapeño Lime Butter: In the last minute of grilling, brush shrimp with jalapeño lime butter to melt and soak in.
  9. Rest and Serve: Remove skewers from grill, brush with more butter if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure spices stick and prevent steaming. Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning. Adjust cayenne and jalapeño seeds to control heat level. Butter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavor. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy shrimp skewers, firecracker shrimp, jalapeño lime butter, grilled shrimp, summer recipe, seafood skewers, easy shrimp recipe