Perfectly Cooked Shrimp on Blackstone Griddle in 2-3 Minutes

I’ve always been a fan of cooking shrimp on a blackstone griddle. The high heat and even cooking surface make it perfect for achieving that delicious char and tender texture. But one question that often comes up is: how long should I cook shrimp on a blackstone griddle? Well, today I’m here to share my expertise on this topic and give you the perfect cooking time for your shrimp.

When it comes to cooking shrimp on a blackstone griddle, timing is everything. Overcook them, and you’ll end up with rubbery, flavorless shrimp. Undercook them, and you risk serving raw shrimp, which is not only unsafe but also unappetizing. So, to achieve that perfect balance of juiciness and tenderness, it’s crucial to know exactly how long to cook your shrimp on a blackstone griddle.

The cooking time for shrimp on a blackstone griddle will largely depend on the size of the shrimp. Smaller shrimp, such as medium or small-sized ones, will take less time to cook, while larger shrimp will require a bit more time. As a general rule of thumb, I find that cooking medium-sized shrimp on a blackstone griddle for about 2-3 minutes per side yields the best results. However, it’s essential to keep a close eye on them and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they don’t overcook.

Different Methods to Cook Shrimp on Blackstone Griddle

When it comes to cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, there are several methods you can try to achieve delicious and perfectly cooked shrimp. Each method offers a unique flavor and texture. Let’s explore some of these methods:

1. Direct heat grilling:

Grilling shrimp directly on the griddle’s surface is a popular method. Simply preheat the griddle on medium-high heat and place the shrimp directly on the cooking surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. This method gives the shrimp a beautiful sear and a slightly smoky flavor.

2. Skewer grilling:

Another great method is grilling shrimp on skewers to ensure even cooking. Thread the shrimp onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, making sure they are not tightly packed. Preheat the griddle on medium heat and place the skewers on the surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, rotating the skewers to ensure even cooking. This method allows for easy flipping and gives the shrimp a lovely charred flavor.

3. Foil packet cooking:

If you want to infuse your shrimp with additional flavors, try cooking them in a foil packet. Preheat the griddle on medium-low heat. Place the shrimp in a foil packet with your favorite herbs, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil. Seal the packet tightly and place it on the griddle. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through and flavorful. This method keeps the shrimp moist and allows them to absorb the flavors from the herbs and spices.

Remember, regardless of the method you choose, always keep a close eye on the shrimp while they cook. Overcooking can result in rubbery shrimp, so it’s important to maintain the optimum cooking time. With these different methods, you can experiment with flavors and find the perfect way to cook shrimp on your Blackstone griddle.

Preparing the Shrimp for Cooking

To ensure the best results when cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, proper preparation is key. Here are a few steps to follow before you begin cooking:

1. Peel and devein the shrimp: Remove the shells and tails from the shrimp, then use a sharp knife or shrimp deveiner to carefully remove the dark vein that runs along the back of the shrimp. This step is optional, but it can improve the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
2. Marinate the shrimp (optional): If you want to infuse your shrimp with extra flavor, consider marinating them before cooking. You can use a variety of marinades, such as garlic butter, lemon herb, or Cajun seasoning, depending on your taste preferences. Simply place the shrimp in a bowl, pour the marinade over them, and let them sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Preheat the Blackstone griddle: Before you start cooking, make sure your griddle is preheated to the desired temperature. This will ensure that the shrimp cook evenly and quickly, while also developing a delicious char.
4. Oil the griddle: To prevent the shrimp from sticking to the griddle, lightly oil the cooking surface before adding the shrimp. You can use a brush or a paper towel to evenly coat the griddle with oil.

By taking the time to properly prepare your shrimp before cooking, you’ll set yourself up for success and enhance their flavor. Remember to experiment with different marinades and seasonings to create unique and delicious dishes every time. Now that we’ve prepared the shrimp, let’s move on to the cooking methods.

Seasoning Options for Shrimp on Blackstone Griddle

When it comes to cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, the seasoning options are limitless. Adding the right blend of flavors can take your shrimp to the next level. Here are a few seasoning options that I find work well with shrimp on a Blackstone griddle:

1. Lemon and Herb: A classic combination that never disappoints. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before cooking, then sprinkle with your choice of herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme. The bright citrus and fresh herbs will add a burst of freshness to the dish.
2. Cajun: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a Cajun seasoning blend is a fantastic choice. The rich, smoky flavors of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder add depth to the shrimp. Add a touch of cayenne for an extra kick if you like it spicy.
3. Garlic and Butter: A classic combination that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Melt some butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Brush the shrimp with the garlic butter mixture, and you’ll end up with irresistible shrimp bursting with flavor.
4. Teriyaki: If you’re in the mood for some Asian-inspired flavors, teriyaki marinade is a great option. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sweet honey creates a savory and slightly sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with shrimp.

Experimenting with different seasoning options is part of the fun when cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out your own combinations. Whether you prefer a tangy, spicy, or savory flavor profile, there’s a seasoning option out there that will suit your taste buds.

Cooking Time and Temperature for Shrimp on Blackstone Griddle

When it comes to cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, getting the timing and temperature just right is crucial. You want to ensure that your shrimp are cooked to perfection – tender and juicy on the inside with a nice sear on the outside. Here are a few tips on how to achieve that ideal result.

1. Timing
The cooking time for shrimp on a Blackstone griddle is relatively short. It typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side to cook medium-sized shrimp. It’s important to keep an eye on them and flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery, so be mindful of the time.

2. Temperature
For optimal results, preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat, around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat will sear the shrimp quickly, locking in the flavors and juices while creating a beautiful caramelized exterior.

3. Doneness
Determining the doneness of shrimp is simple. Look for a pinkish color and a slightly opaque flesh. Avoid cooking them until they turn completely opaque, as this can indicate overcooking. Remember, shrimp continue to cook for a short while after being removed from the heat, so a slightly undercooked shrimp will become perfectly cooked during this resting period.

4. Tail-on or Tail-off
Whether you prefer to cook shrimp with the tail-on or tail-off is a matter of personal preference. Leaving the tail on can provide an attractive presentation, while removing the tail makes for easier eating. Both options work equally well on a Blackstone griddle, so choose whichever you prefer.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

When it comes to cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, achieving the perfect level of doneness is key. Here are a few tips to ensure that your shrimp are cooked to perfection every time:

1. Size Matters: The cooking time for shrimp can vary depending on their size. Generally, medium-sized shrimp take around 2-3 minutes per side to cook on a medium-high heat griddle. Larger shrimp may require a slightly longer cooking time, while smaller shrimp will cook more quickly.
2. Don’t Overcook: Overcooking shrimp can result in a tough and rubbery texture. It’s important to cook them just until they turn pinkish in color and become slightly opaque. As soon as they reach this stage, they’re ready to be taken off the griddle. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
3. Preheat the Griddle: Before cooking your shrimp, make sure to preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the shrimp cook evenly and develop a nice sear on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
4. Properly Prepare the Shrimp: Before cooking, it’s important to peel and devein the shrimp. Removing the shell and vein will not only make the shrimp more appealing visually, but it will also improve the taste and texture of the final dish.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: While shrimp are delicious on their own, experimenting with different seasonings can take them to the next level. Popular options include lemon and herb, Cajun, garlic and butter, and teriyaki. Be creative and try different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.

Tips on How Long to Cook

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires precise timing, proper preparation, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly cooked shrimp that are flavorful and tender.

To begin, make sure to peel and devein the shrimp before cooking. This will ensure that the shrimp cook evenly and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If desired, marinate the shrimp beforehand to enhance the taste even further.

Next, preheat the griddle to medium-high heat and oil the cooking surface. This will prevent the shrimp from sticking and help them cook evenly. Experiment with different seasonings, such as lemon and herb, Cajun, garlic and butter, or teriyaki, to add a burst of flavor to the shrimp.

When it comes to cooking time, medium-sized shrimp typically require 2-3 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on the shrimp and cook them until they turn pinkish in color and become slightly opaque. Overcooking can result in tough and rubbery shrimp, so it’s important to avoid this.

Finally, whether you prefer to cook shrimp with the tail-on or tail-off is a matter of personal preference. Both options can yield delicious results.

By considering the size of the shrimp, avoiding overcooking, preheating the griddle, properly preparing the shrimp, and experimenting with different seasonings, you can create a mouthwatering shrimp dish that will impress your family and friends. Happy griddling