How Long Should You Cook Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Food Storage & Preservation

When it comes to quick, flavorful meals, shrimp stands out as a versatile and delicious choice. Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle adds a unique smoky char and enhances its natural sweetness, making it a favorite among seafood lovers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts alike. However, mastering the perfect cook time is essential to avoid rubbery or undercooked shrimp and to truly elevate your dish.

Understanding how long to cook shrimp on a Blackstone griddle is a key step in achieving that ideal texture and flavor. The Blackstone’s even heat distribution and large cooking surface make it an excellent tool for preparing shrimp quickly and efficiently. Yet, shrimp’s delicate nature means timing is everything—too long on the griddle and it can become tough, too short and it may be unsafe or unappetizing.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence cooking times, share tips to help you get it just right, and guide you through the process of preparing shrimp that’s perfectly cooked every time on your Blackstone. Whether you’re a seasoned griddle pro or just starting out, understanding these basics will transform your shrimp dishes into crowd-pleasing favorites.

Optimal Cooking Time for Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires precise timing to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking can lead to a rubbery, tough result. Typically, shrimp should be cooked for about 2 to 3 minutes per side on a preheated Blackstone griddle. The total cooking time will depend on the size of the shrimp and the temperature of the griddle surface.

For medium-sized shrimp (around 21-25 count per pound), the recommended cooking time is approximately 4 to 6 minutes total. Larger shrimp may require slightly longer, while smaller shrimp cook faster. It is crucial to monitor the shrimp closely during cooking, as they transition from translucent to opaque and curl into a “C” shape when done.

Factors Influencing Cooking Time

Several factors can affect how long shrimp take to cook on a Blackstone griddle:

  • Shrimp Size: Larger shrimp need more time, while smaller shrimp cook faster.
  • Griddle Temperature: A well-preheated griddle at medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F) ensures even cooking without burning.
  • Shrimp Preparation: Whether shrimp are peeled, deveined, or marinated can slightly alter cooking time.
  • Shrimp Freshness: Frozen shrimp that are not fully thawed may require extra time.
  • Cooking Method: Cooking shrimp directly on the griddle surface versus using a pan or foil can change heat transfer efficiency.

Step-by-Step Cooking Time Guide

To achieve consistent results when cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, follow this guide:

  • Preheat the griddle to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
  • Lightly oil the griddle surface to prevent sticking.
  • Place shrimp evenly spaced on the hot surface.
  • Cook shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without moving them.
  • Flip shrimp and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on the other side.
  • Remove shrimp when they turn opaque and form a loose “C” shape.

Cooking Time Table Based on Shrimp Size

Shrimp Size (Count per Pound) Approximate Cooking Time Per Side Total Cooking Time Griddle Temperature
31-40 (Small) 1.5 – 2 minutes 3 – 4 minutes 375°F – 400°F
21-30 (Medium) 2 – 3 minutes 4 – 6 minutes 375°F – 400°F
16-20 (Large) 3 – 4 minutes 6 – 8 minutes 375°F – 400°F
13-15 (Jumbo) 4 – 5 minutes 8 – 10 minutes 375°F – 400°F

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp on a Blackstone

  • Always preheat the griddle thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the cooking surface to maintain consistent heat.
  • Use a spatula to gently flip shrimp to prevent tearing.
  • Season shrimp just before cooking to enhance flavor without drawing out moisture prematurely.
  • Remove shrimp promptly once done to prevent carryover cooking.
  • Consider using a cooking thermometer to verify griddle surface temperature.

By adhering to these timing guidelines and techniques, shrimp cooked on a Blackstone griddle will be tender, juicy, and flavorful every time.

Optimal Cooking Time for Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires attention to both temperature and timing to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp without overcooking. Unlike traditional grilling, the flat top griddle offers direct, even heat distribution which accelerates cooking times.

The general rule of thumb for cooking shrimp on a Blackstone is brief but precise:

  • Preheat the griddle to a medium-high temperature, approximately 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C).
  • Cook shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
  • Total cooking time typically ranges from 4 to 6 minutes.

Maintaining this timing ensures the shrimp turn opaque and firm without becoming rubbery or dry.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time on a Blackstone

Several variables can influence how long shrimp need to cook on a Blackstone griddle:

Factor Effect on Cooking Time Recommended Adjustment
Shrimp Size Larger shrimp require more time; smaller shrimp cook faster. Adjust time by 30 seconds per side for jumbo shrimp.
Griddle Temperature Lower temps extend cooking time; higher temps shorten it but risk burning. Maintain consistent medium-high heat for even cooking.
Fresh vs. Frozen Frozen shrimp take longer if not fully thawed. Always thaw shrimp completely before cooking.
Marinades & Coatings Sugary or thick marinades can cause quicker browning. Monitor closely and reduce cooking time slightly if heavily coated.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Shrimp on a Blackstone

Follow these steps to ensure perfectly cooked shrimp every time:

  1. Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
  2. Lightly oil the cooking surface or brush the shrimp with oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Place shrimp evenly spaced on the griddle in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes without moving them to develop a slight sear.
  5. Flip shrimp gently using tongs or a spatula.
  6. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on the second side until shrimp are opaque and firm to the touch.
  7. Remove shrimp immediately to prevent overcooking and serve.

Visual and Textural Indicators of Properly Cooked Shrimp

Beyond timing, recognizing when shrimp are done is critical. Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they exhibit the following characteristics:

  • Color: The flesh turns from translucent gray to an opaque white with pink and bright red accents on the tail.
  • Shape: Shrimp curl into a loose “C” shape. Tight curling into an “O” shape often indicates overcooking.
  • Texture: Firm but springy; the shrimp should not feel mushy or rubbery.

Tips for Enhancing Shrimp Cooking on a Blackstone

  • Use a cast iron press or a weighted spatula to ensure even contact with the griddle surface for uniform cooking.
  • Season shrimp just before cooking to prevent moisture loss and maximize flavor.
  • Clean the griddle surface between batches to avoid burnt residue affecting taste and texture.
  • Consider adding aromatics like garlic butter or lemon juice toward the end of cooking for enhanced flavor.
  • Use a food thermometer to verify an internal temperature of 120°F to 140°F (49°C to 60°C) for perfectly cooked shrimp.

Expert Guidance on Cooking Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill

Chef Maria Lopez (Seafood Culinary Specialist, Coastal Flavors Institute). Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone requires precision; typically, shrimp should be grilled for about 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This ensures they remain tender and juicy without becoming rubbery. Monitoring the shrimp closely and watching for the color change to a bright pink with opaque flesh is essential for perfect timing.

James Carter (Outdoor Cooking Expert and Blackstone Grill Ambassador). When using a Blackstone griddle, preheating to around 375°F is critical before placing shrimp on the surface. Shrimp generally take between 4 to 6 minutes total to cook, depending on their size. Flipping them once halfway through cooking helps achieve even heat distribution and optimal texture.

Dr. Elaine Chen (Food Scientist and Grilling Techniques Researcher, Culinary Science Lab). The key to perfectly cooked shrimp on a Blackstone is controlling the cooking temperature and timing. Overcooking shrimp leads to toughness, so maintaining a consistent medium-high temperature and cooking for no more than 5 minutes total is advisable. Using a timer and visual cues such as firming up and color change will help ensure the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to cook shrimp on a Blackstone griddle?
Shrimp typically cooks 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 griddle to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, for optimal shrimp cooking.

How can I tell when shrimp is fully cooked on the Blackstone?
Shrimp is done when it turns opaque, pink, and curls into a loose “C” shape without being tightly coiled.

Should shrimp be marinated before cooking on a Blackstone griddle?
Marinating shrimp enhances flavor but is optional; if marinated, pat dry before cooking to prevent steaming.

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—combining both is common.

Can frozen shrimp be cooked directly on a Blackstone griddle?
It is best to thaw shrimp fully before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture on the griddle.
Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle is a quick and efficient process, typically requiring just 2 to 3 minutes per side depending on the size and thickness of the shrimp. Proper preparation, including cleaning and seasoning, is essential to achieve optimal flavor and texture. Preheating the griddle to medium-high heat ensures even cooking and helps develop a desirable sear on the shrimp.

It is important to monitor the shrimp closely during cooking, as overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. Using a high-quality cooking oil and maintaining consistent heat will contribute to a perfectly cooked dish.

In summary, mastering the timing and temperature on a Blackstone griddle allows for delicious, tender shrimp in just a few minutes. This method is ideal for quick meals and offers versatility in seasoning and accompaniments, making it a valuable technique for both novice and experienced cooks.

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.