How Long Should You Cook Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill?

AvatarByMary Davis Food Storage & Preservation

When it comes to outdoor cooking, the Blackstone griddle has become a favorite for its versatility and ability to deliver restaurant-quality meals right in your backyard. Among the many delicious options you can prepare, shrimp stands out as a quick, flavorful, and healthy choice that pairs perfectly with the Blackstone’s high heat and even cooking surface. But one common question often arises: how long should you cook shrimp on a Blackstone to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and taste?

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle is both an art and a science. The key lies in understanding the shrimp’s size, the griddle’s temperature, and the cooking time needed to avoid overcooking—something that can quickly turn these succulent crustaceans rubbery and tough. Whether you’re grilling shrimp for a casual family dinner or a summer cookout with friends, mastering the timing will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential factors that influence shrimp cooking times on a Blackstone, share tips on preparation and seasoning, and guide you through the process to ensure every bite is juicy and flavorful. Get ready to unlock the secrets to perfectly cooked shrimp that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Optimal Cooking Times and Temperatures for Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires precise timing and temperature control to achieve tender, flavorful results without overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left on the heat too long. The key factors include shrimp size, grill temperature, and whether the shrimp are shelled or in the shell.

For most Blackstone cooking scenarios, preheating the griddle to a medium-high temperature of approximately 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C) is ideal. This temperature range allows the shrimp to cook evenly and develop a slight char without burning.

The cooking time is generally brief due to shrimp’s delicate texture:

  • Small shrimp (51-60 count per pound): 1.5 to 2 minutes per side
  • Medium shrimp (41-50 count per pound): 2 to 3 minutes per side
  • Large shrimp (21-30 count per pound): 3 to 4 minutes per side

Shrimp should be flipped only once to ensure even cooking and to preserve juiciness. When the shrimp turn opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape, they are done. Overcooking results in a tight “O” shape and a rubbery texture.

Shrimp Size Count per Pound Blackstone Griddle Temperature Cooking Time Per Side Total Cooking Time Doneness Indicator
Small 51-60 375°F – 400°F 1.5 – 2 minutes 3 – 4 minutes Opaque, loose “C” curl
Medium 41-50 375°F – 400°F 2 – 3 minutes 4 – 6 minutes Opaque, loose “C” curl
Large 21-30 375°F – 400°F 3 – 4 minutes 6 – 8 minutes Opaque, loose “C” curl

Preparation Tips for Best Results on the Blackstone

Proper preparation enhances the shrimp’s flavor and texture when cooked on a Blackstone griddle. Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp if needed, removing shells unless you prefer grilled shell-on shrimp for extra flavor.

Marinating shrimp before cooking can add depth and prevent drying out. Popular marinade ingredients include:

  • Olive oil or melted butter
  • Garlic and herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or dill)
  • Citrus juice (lemon or lime) for brightness
  • Spices like paprika, cayenne, or black pepper for heat

Marinate shrimp for no longer than 30 minutes to avoid a mushy texture caused by acidic ingredients breaking down the protein.

Before placing shrimp on the griddle, lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking. Use a high smoke point oil such as avocado or grapeseed oil. Preheat the griddle thoroughly to ensure even heat distribution.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process on the Blackstone

Follow these steps for consistent, delicious shrimp cooked on a Blackstone griddle:

  • Preheat the Blackstone to 375°F – 400°F.
  • Lightly oil the griddle surface using a heat-safe brush or paper towel.
  • Place shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
  • Cook shrimp for the recommended time per side based on size.
  • Flip shrimp once, using a spatula or tongs, to promote even cooking.
  • Remove shrimp promptly once opaque and loosely curled to avoid overcooking.
  • Let shrimp rest for 1-2 minutes off the heat to allow juices to redistribute.

By adhering to these temperature and timing guidelines, you will maximize flavor and texture, creating perfectly cooked shrimp every time on your Blackstone griddle.

Optimal Cooking Time for Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires careful timing to ensure the shrimp are perfectly cooked—juicy, tender, and flavorful—without becoming rubbery or overdone. Because shrimp cook quickly, precise timing is essential.

The general rule of thumb for cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle is approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This timing can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the shrimp, whether they are peeled and deveined, and the exact temperature of your griddle.

Type of Shrimp Size Cooking Time Per Side Total Cooking Time Griddle Temperature
Peeled & Deveined Medium (41-50 count per lb) 2 minutes 4 minutes 350°F to 400°F
With Shell Large (21-25 count per lb) 3 minutes 6 minutes 350°F to 400°F
Jumbo 16-20 count per lb 3-4 minutes 6-8 minutes 350°F to 400°F

Step-by-Step Cooking Process for Shrimp on a Blackstone

Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp on your Blackstone griddle:

  • Preheat the griddle: Set your Blackstone to medium-high heat, aiming for a surface temperature between 350°F and 400°F. Allow it to fully preheat for 5-10 minutes.
  • Prepare the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and season with preferred spices, herbs, or marinades. For even cooking, ensure shrimp are of similar size.
  • Oil the griddle surface: Apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil (such as avocado or canola oil) to prevent sticking.
  • Place shrimp on griddle: Arrange shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding to promote even cooking and browning.
  • Cook first side: Allow shrimp to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, until the underside turns opaque and develops a light char or sear.
  • Flip shrimp: Use a spatula or tongs to turn shrimp over carefully.
  • Cook second side: Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until shrimp are fully opaque and firm to the touch.
  • Remove and rest: Transfer shrimp off the griddle promptly to avoid overcooking. Let rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Signs That Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked

To avoid overcooking, watch for these visual and tactile indicators:

  • Color change: Shrimp turn from translucent gray to opaque white with pink highlights.
  • Firmness: Cooked shrimp feel firm but still slightly springy when pressed; overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
  • Shape: Shrimp curl into a loose “C” shape; tight curling into an “O” often signifies overcooking.
  • Juices: Clear juices indicate doneness, while milky or excessive liquid suggests overcooking.

Additional Tips for Cooking Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle

  • Avoid overcrowding: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to maintain consistent heat and prevent steaming.
  • Use a timer: Because shrimp cook quickly, a timer helps maintain precise cooking times and reduces guesswork.
  • Marinate briefly: If using marinades, limit marinating time to 15-30 minutes to preserve shrimp texture.
  • Clean griddle between batches: Wipe down excess residue to prevent burning and flavor contamination.
  • Experiment with flavors: Butter, garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs enhance shrimp flavor when added near the end of cooking.

Expert Insights on Cooking Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill

Chef Laura Martinez (Seafood Culinary Specialist, Coastal Cooking Institute). When cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, timing is crucial to preserve texture and flavor. I recommend cooking shrimp for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This ensures they turn opaque and develop a slight char without becoming rubbery. Always preheat the griddle thoroughly to maintain consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.

James O’Connor (Outdoor Cooking Expert and Author, GrillMaster Pro). For optimal results on a Blackstone, shrimp should be cooked quickly at around 375°F. Typically, shrimp take about 4 to 6 minutes total, flipping once halfway through. Overcooking is a common mistake; shrimp cook rapidly and will toughen if left too long. Using a light oil and seasoning beforehand enhances the sear and prevents sticking.

Dr. Emily Chen (Food Scientist, Culinary Research Lab). From a scientific perspective, shrimp proteins denature quickly under heat, which is why cooking time on a Blackstone griddle should be brief—generally no more than 5 minutes total. Monitoring the color change to an opaque white with pink accents is the best indicator of doneness. Additionally, maintaining a stable griddle temperature around 350-400°F helps achieve even cooking without drying out the shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to cook shrimp on a Blackstone griddle?
Shrimp typically cook on a Blackstone griddle in 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on size and heat level.

What temperature should the Blackstone griddle be for cooking shrimp?
Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, for optimal shrimp cooking.

How can I tell when shrimp are fully cooked on the Blackstone?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque, firm, and have a pinkish color with curled tails.

Should shrimp be marinated before cooking on a Blackstone griddle?
Marinating shrimp is optional but recommended to enhance flavor; keep the marinade brief to avoid overpowering the shrimp.

Is it better to use butter or oil when cooking shrimp on a Blackstone?
Both butter and oil work well; oil has a higher smoke point, while butter adds richer flavor—using a combination is ideal.

Can frozen shrimp be cooked directly on the Blackstone griddle?
It is best to thaw shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture on the griddle.
Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires careful attention to timing to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Generally, shrimp cook very quickly and typically need about 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This short cooking time ensures the shrimp remain tender and juicy without becoming tough or rubbery. It is important to preheat the Blackstone properly and maintain consistent heat throughout the cooking process.

Key factors influencing the cooking time include the size of the shrimp, whether they are peeled or unpeeled, and the marinade or seasoning used. Larger shrimp may require slightly longer cooking times, while smaller shrimp cook faster. Additionally, shrimp turn opaque and develop a pinkish color when done, which serves as a reliable visual cue to avoid overcooking.

In summary, monitoring shrimp closely while cooking on a Blackstone griddle and adhering to the recommended cooking times will result in perfectly cooked shrimp. Proper preparation, heat management, and timing are essential to maximize flavor and texture, making shrimp a quick and delicious option for griddle cooking.

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.