How Long Should You Cook Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill?

AvatarByNora Gaines General Cooking Queries

When it comes to quick, flavorful meals, shrimp stands out as a favorite for many home cooks and grill enthusiasts alike. Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle combines the joy of outdoor cooking with the convenience of a flat-top surface, delivering perfectly seared seafood with minimal fuss. But one common question often arises: how long should you cook shrimp on a Blackstone to achieve that ideal texture and taste?

Understanding the cooking time for shrimp on a Blackstone is essential because shrimp cook rapidly and can easily become rubbery or overdone if not timed correctly. The unique heat distribution of a Blackstone griddle adds another layer to consider, making it important to grasp the basics before diving into the process. Whether you’re a seasoned griddle master or a beginner eager to try your hand at seafood, knowing the right cooking duration sets the foundation for a delicious result.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence shrimp cooking times on a Blackstone, including shrimp size, temperature, and preparation methods. This overview will prepare you to confidently cook shrimp that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor every time you fire up your griddle.

Optimal Cooking Times and Temperatures for Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires attention to both temperature and timing to ensure perfectly cooked, tender shrimp. Due to shrimp’s delicate nature, overcooking can quickly lead to rubbery texture, while undercooking poses food safety concerns. Achieving the ideal balance hinges on understanding the shrimp size, heat settings, and cooking method.

When preheating the Blackstone griddle, aim for a medium-high heat, typically between 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C). This temperature range allows shrimp to cook quickly and evenly without burning the exterior. Shrimp generally take very little time on the griddle, making constant monitoring essential.

General Cooking Guidelines

  • Preheat the griddle to 350°F–400°F before adding shrimp.
  • Oil the surface lightly to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
  • Arrange shrimp in a single layer to ensure uniform heat exposure.
  • Cook time per side is typically 1.5 to 2 minutes depending on shrimp size.
  • Watch for visual cues such as shrimp turning opaque and curling into a loose “C” shape.

Shrimp Size and Cooking Time

Shrimp size significantly affects the cooking duration. Smaller shrimp cook faster, whereas larger shrimp need slightly more time but still within a short window. The following table outlines approximate cooking times for various shrimp sizes on a Blackstone griddle heated to 375°F (190°C):

Shrimp Size Cooking Time Per Side Total Cooking Time Visual Indicators
Small (51-60 count/lb) 1.5 minutes 3 minutes Opaque, pink color; curls into loose “C”
Medium (41-50 count/lb) 2 minutes 4 minutes Opaque, pink color; firm but tender texture
Large (31-40 count/lb) 2 minutes 4 minutes Opaque, pink with slight char; firm texture
Jumbo (21-30 count/lb) 2.5 minutes 5 minutes Opaque and pink with slight browning; firm

Additional Tips for Perfect Shrimp Cooking on Blackstone

  • Avoid overcrowding the griddle, which lowers the temperature and extends cooking time.
  • Use a spatula or tongs to flip shrimp gently to prevent tearing.
  • Marinate shrimp briefly before cooking to enhance flavor but avoid acidic marinades longer than 15-20 minutes to prevent texture changes.
  • Consider residual heat after removing shrimp from the griddle; shrimp will continue to cook slightly during resting.
  • Season at the end of cooking or midway through to prevent burning of spices.

Monitoring shrimp closely during cooking and using the outlined times as a guideline will help ensure juicy, flavorful shrimp every time you use your Blackstone griddle.

Optimal Cooking Time for Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle requires precise timing to achieve the ideal texture—tender, juicy, and slightly charred without becoming rubbery. The cooking duration depends on shrimp size, heat level, and whether they are shelled or in the shell.

General Guidelines for Cooking Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle:

  • Preheat the griddle: Set the Blackstone to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F to 400°F, allowing it to preheat fully for 10-15 minutes.
  • Preparation: Peel and devein shrimp if desired. Leaving the shell on can add flavor but will slightly increase cooking time.
  • Oil the griddle: Apply a thin layer of high smoke-point oil (e.g., avocado or canola oil) to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

Cooking Times by Shrimp Size

Shrimp Size Cooking Time per Side Total Cooking Time Notes
Small (51-60 count per lb) 1.5 – 2 minutes 3 – 4 minutes Watch carefully to avoid overcooking
Medium (41-50 count per lb) 2 minutes 4 minutes Ideal for quick grilling
Large (31-40 count per lb) 2.5 minutes 5 minutes Best for more substantial texture
Extra Large (21-30 count per lb) 3 minutes 6 minutes May require slight adjustment based on thickness

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

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

  1. Preheat the griddle: Bring the surface to medium-high heat, ensuring even temperature across the cooking area.
  2. Prepare shrimp: Pat dry to remove excess moisture, season with salt, pepper, and optional spices or marinades.
  3. Oil the surface: Use a spatula or brush to apply a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Place shrimp on the griddle: Arrange in a single layer with space between each piece to allow even cooking.
  5. Cook the first side: Let shrimp cook undisturbed for the recommended time based on size until edges turn opaque and bottoms develop light char marks.
  6. Flip shrimp: Use a spatula to turn shrimp over carefully to avoid tearing.
  7. Cook the second side: Continue cooking until shrimp are fully opaque, firm to the touch, and have a slight golden crust.
  8. Remove from heat: Transfer shrimp to a plate promptly to prevent overcooking from residual heat.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Cooking on a Blackstone Griddle

  • Do not overcrowd the griddle: Shrimp cook best when spaced apart, allowing heat to circulate freely.
  • Adjust heat as necessary: If shrimp cook too fast and begin to burn, reduce the temperature slightly.
  • Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp yield the best texture and flavor.
  • Marinate sparingly: Acidic marinades (e.g., lemon juice) can start to “cook” shrimp if left too long; limit marinating time to 15-30 minutes.
  • Check doneness visually: Fully cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque with curled tails but avoid curling into a tight “O” shape, which indicates overcooking.
  • Rest briefly: Allow cooked shrimp to rest 1-2 minutes off the heat for juices to redistribute.

Expert Guidance on Cooking Shrimp on a Blackstone Grill

Chef Maria Gonzalez (Seafood Culinary Specialist, Coastal Cooking Institute). When cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle, timing is crucial to preserve tenderness and flavor. I recommend cooking medium-sized shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This ensures they turn opaque and firm without becoming rubbery.

James Turner (Outdoor Cooking Expert and Author, Grill Masters Weekly). The Blackstone’s even heat distribution allows shrimp to cook quickly and consistently. For optimal results, preheat the griddle to around 375°F and cook shrimp for approximately 4 to 6 minutes total, flipping once. This timing balances a perfect sear with juicy interior texture.

Dr. Elaine Park (Food Scientist, Marine Protein Research Center). From a scientific perspective, shrimp proteins coagulate rapidly under heat, so overcooking on a Blackstone can lead to toughness. Cooking shrimp for 3 to 5 minutes total at moderate heat is ideal to maintain moisture and flavor integrity, especially when using fresh seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it typically take to cook shrimp on a Blackstone griddle?
Shrimp usually take about 2 to 3 minutes per side on a preheated Blackstone griddle, depending on their size and thickness.

What temperature should the Blackstone griddle be set to for cooking shrimp?
Set the griddle to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F to 400°F, to ensure even cooking without overcooking the shrimp.

How can I tell when shrimp are fully cooked on a Blackstone griddle?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque, curl into a loose “C” shape, and have a firm texture. Avoid overcooking, which causes toughness.

Should shrimp be marinated before cooking on a Blackstone griddle?
Marinating shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes enhances flavor but avoid acidic marinades for too long, as they can affect texture.

Is it necessary to oil the Blackstone griddle before cooking shrimp?
Yes, lightly oiling the griddle prevents sticking and promotes even browning of the shrimp.

Can frozen shrimp be cooked directly on a Blackstone griddle?
It is best to thaw shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and proper cooking time on the griddle.
Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle is a quick and efficient process that typically takes only a few minutes. The ideal cooking time for shrimp on a Blackstone ranges from 2 to 4 minutes per side, depending on the size of the shrimp and the heat level of the griddle. It is important to preheat the griddle to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.

Monitoring the shrimp closely during cooking is essential, as shrimp cook rapidly and can become tough or rubbery if overcooked. Indicators that shrimp are done include an opaque appearance and a firm texture, along with a characteristic pink color and curled shape. Using proper seasoning and oil on the griddle enhances flavor and helps achieve a desirable sear.

In summary, precise timing and temperature control are key to perfectly cooked shrimp on a Blackstone griddle. By following recommended cooking times and paying attention to visual cues, one can consistently prepare shrimp that are tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. This approach ensures an enjoyable and successful cooking experience every time.

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Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.