Cedar Plank Grilled Shrimp Three Flavorful Varieties

Unlock an unparalleled culinary experience with our guide to making quick and easy Cedar Plank Grilled Shrimp. This versatile recipe offers three distinct flavor profiles – classic BBQ, refreshing Cilantro Lime, and zesty Sweet Chili – ensuring there’s a delightful option to satisfy every palate. Preparing shrimp on a cedar plank not only infuses a deep, smoky aroma and flavor but also keeps the shrimp incredibly juicy and tender, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned grill masters. Forget the hassle of skewers or grill baskets; cedar plank grilling simplifies the process while elevating the taste.

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There’s a special joy in cooking seafood outdoors, and grilling is undeniably one of my favorite methods. While shrimp often requires threading onto skewers or using a specialized grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates, cedar plank grilling offers an elegant and efficient alternative. This technique is not only a little faster and more convenient than fiddling with skewers but also infuses the shrimp with an incredible smoky depth that’s hard to achieve otherwise. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves the distinct flavor of wood-fired cooking.

What is the Cedar Plank For? What Does it Do?

Plank grilling is a time-honored technique that involves cooking food on a wooden board directly on the grill. The primary purpose of a cedar plank is to impart a deep, nuanced wood-smoked flavor to your food, far more effectively than traditional wood chips. Unlike chips that burn quickly and release smoke, the plank acts as a buffer between the food and the direct heat, allowing it to slowly release its aromatic oils and moisture into the shrimp. This method gently steams the food while it grills, keeping it incredibly moist and infusing it with that signature cedar essence.

While cedar planks are the most common and widely available, many specialty stores offer a variety of wood options, such as maple, alder, and apple, each offering a slightly different flavor profile. Cedar planks, known for their robust and sweet smoke, are fantastic with seafood. You can easily find them on Amazon or at most major retailers like Costco in the grilling supplies section. Using them is a simple way to elevate your grilled dishes from good to gourmet.

The Art of Selecting Your Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for a successful cedar plank grilling experience. Grocery stores offer shrimp in various forms: raw, pre-cooked, raw and frozen, peeled, deveined, with tails on or off. For this recipe, and frankly, for almost any shrimp dish where flavor and texture are paramount, I strongly recommend using raw shrimp. Pre-cooked shrimp often sacrifices flavor and can easily become rubbery when reheated or cooked a second time. Raw shrimp, on the other hand, cooks in minutes, ensuring a perfectly tender bite every time.

When it comes to preparation, my preference is always for deveined shrimp. The dark vein running along the back of the shrimp is indeed its digestive tract, and while not harmful, removing it significantly improves the aesthetic and often the taste, as it can sometimes carry a gritty texture. You can buy shrimp that is already deveined, or if you purchase it with the vein intact, a simple slit along the back with a sharp paring knife allows you to easily lift it out. As for size, opt for large or jumbo shrimp (often labeled U/21-25 or U/16-20 count per pound). Smaller shrimp are generally better suited for soups or salads, where their delicate size isn’t overwhelmed. For grilling, larger shrimp hold up better and offer a more satisfying bite.

Mastering the Seasoning: Three Irresistible Flavors

The beauty of this cedar plank shrimp recipe lies in its versatility, offering three distinct flavor profiles to suit any craving: classic BBQ, bright Cilantro Lime, and savory Sweet Chili. Each seasoning is designed to complement the natural sweetness of shrimp and the smoky notes from the cedar plank.

Homemade BBQ Rub

For a robust, smoky flavor, my Homemade BBQ Rub is perfect. It creates a beautiful crust and a rich, savory taste. You will need:

• Brown Sweetener or Brown Sugar
• Chili Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Smoked Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

To prepare, simply toss the shrimp with a tablespoon of olive oil to help the rub adhere, then generously coat with the mixed BBQ spices. For best results, let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes at room temperature, or up to an hour in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to truly penetrate the shrimp.

Cilantro Lime

For a light, zesty, and incredibly refreshing flavor, the Cilantro Lime marinade is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for a warm summer evening.

• Olive Oil
• Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped)
• Fresh Lime Juice
• Garlic Powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, finely chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Toss the shrimp with this vibrant marinade. I often reserve a small portion of the marinade to drizzle over the cooked shrimp, enhancing the fresh flavors right before serving. Marinate for 15-20 minutes to infuse the bright, citrusy notes.

Sweet Chili

If you enjoy a hint of sweetness with a gentle kick, the Sweet Chili flavor offers an exciting blend that’s universally appealing.

• Sweet Chili Sauce
• Garlic Powder
• Fresh Lime Juice
• Salt
• Pepper

Combine the sweet chili sauce, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creates a wonderfully balanced marinade that’s sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy. Like the cilantro lime, reserving a little extra marinade to brush over the shrimp after grilling can add an extra layer of glaze and flavor. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15-20 minutes before grilling to let the sweet and savory notes meld.

The Essential Step: Soaking Your Cedar Plank

This is perhaps the most critical step in cedar plank grilling, and it cannot be skipped. Placing a dry wooden plank directly on hot grill grates will almost certainly lead to a fire, consuming your plank and potentially your dinner! To prevent this, you must thoroughly soak your cedar plank before use. Aim for at least one hour of soaking time, ensuring the plank is fully submerged in water. This allows the wood to absorb enough moisture to smolder and smoke gently on the grill, rather than igniting. While water is sufficient, some grillers enjoy experimenting by soaking planks in wine, beer, or apple juice for an added layer of flavor. Just ensure your chosen liquid fully covers the plank during the soaking period. Always use a freshly soaked plank for each grilling session to maximize safety and flavor.

Achieving the Perfect Grill Temperature

Understanding and controlling your grill’s temperature is key to perfectly cooked cedar plank shrimp. For this dish, a medium heat, around 350°F (175°C), is optimal. This temperature allows the plank to smolder and release its smoky essence slowly, while gently cooking the shrimp without overcooking it. Many modern grills come with built-in thermometers, making temperature monitoring straightforward.

If your grill lacks a temperature display, don’t worry – you can use a simple hand test to gauge the heat. Carefully hold your hand about 5 inches above the grill grates. If you can comfortably keep it there for 5-7 seconds, your grill is at medium heat. For a more precise reading, an instant-read grill thermometer can be a valuable tool. Remember, consistency is important; try to maintain this temperature throughout the cooking process for the best results. You can find more detailed information on how to check the temperature of your grill here.

Your Guide to Grilling Cedar Plank Shrimp

Once your shrimp is seasoned and your cedar plank is properly soaked, the grilling process is delightfully simple. Detailed instructions and precise measurements can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, but here’s a general overview of the straightforward steps:

1. Prepare your shrimp: Ensure they are peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as per your preference).
2. Season with your chosen flavor: Gently toss the shrimp with your desired BBQ rub, Cilantro Lime marinade, or Sweet Chili sauce.
3. Arrange on the plank: Evenly spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on your pre-soaked cedar plank. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and smoke distribution.
4. Grill to perfection: Place the plank directly on the preheated grill grates, close the lid, and let the magic happen.

The beauty of the plank method is that it creates a gentle, indirect heat environment, protecting the delicate shrimp from harsh direct flame while infusing them with aromatic wood smoke. This technique not only makes for a delicious meal but also a visually impressive presentation.

Knowing When Your Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked

Shrimp cooks surprisingly quickly, and knowing precisely when it’s done is key to avoiding an overcooked, rubbery texture. Raw shrimp typically starts as a translucent gray. As it cooks, it undergoes a beautiful transformation, becoming an opaque white with delightful pink and bright red accents. This color change is your primary indicator of doneness.

Beyond color, pay attention to the shape. When shrimp cooks, its muscle fibers contract, causing it to curl. I find that shrimp is perfectly cooked when it forms a gentle “C” shape. At this point, it’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor. If the shrimp curls further into a tight “O” shape, it often signifies that it’s overcooked, leading to a firmer, less desirable texture. Remove the shrimp from the heat immediately once it reaches that ideal “C” shape to preserve its succulence.

Addressing Fire Concerns: Will the Wood Catch on Fire?

It’s a common concern when grilling with wood, but if you’ve followed the crucial step of soaking your cedar plank for at least an hour, the risk of fire is significantly minimized. The absorbed water prevents the wood from igniting readily. However, occasional flare-ups can still occur, especially if drippings from your food fall onto a particularly hot spot of the plank or directly onto the grill grates. Keep a spray bottle filled with water handy to quickly douse any small flames that might appear. The goal is to have the plank smolder and smoke, not burn. If a flare-up becomes persistent, you can temporarily move the plank to a cooler zone of the grill or slightly adjust the heat. Always keep an eye on your grill while cooking to ensure safety and perfect results.

Can You Reuse Your Cedar Plank?

The reusability of a cedar plank largely depends on its condition after grilling. If you’ve maintained a moderate grill temperature and kept the plank adequately soaked, it might only be lightly charred and could potentially be reused. To determine if it’s reusable, inspect the plank carefully. If it’s heavily charred, cracked, or has warped significantly, it’s best to discard it. A plank that’s too damaged won’t impart the same desirable smoky flavor and might even affect food safety. If you decide to reuse it, make sure to thoroughly clean it with warm water and a brush (no soap), then let it air dry completely before storing. And, of course, always re-soak it thoroughly before its next use. For convenience, many grill enthusiasts, including myself, prefer to buy cedar planks in bulk so that having a fresh one on hand is never an issue.

Can You Use the Cedar Plank in the Oven?

Absolutely! While grilling imparts that authentic outdoor smoky flavor, cedar planks can also be used effectively in the oven. This method is excellent for those without a grill or during inclement weather. To cook cedar plank shrimp in the oven, first soak your plank as you would for grilling. Then, place the seasoned shrimp on the soaked plank and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 9-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and have reached that perfect “C” shape. While the oven won’t produce the same intense smoky char as a grill, the plank will still infuse the shrimp with a lovely, subtle cedar essence and help maintain its moisture. It’s a fantastic alternative for a delicious, easy meal.

Reheating for Best Results

Leftover cedar plank grilled shrimp can be just as delicious, provided you reheat it carefully to maintain its tender texture. My preferred method is using an air fryer: simply place the shrimp in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for just a few minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. The air fryer helps restore a slight crispness without drying out the shrimp. While the microwave is a quick option, I typically avoid it for shrimp as it tends to make them rubbery and can significantly alter their delicate texture. If using a microwave, reheat in short bursts (15-30 seconds) on a lower power setting, stirring frequently, until just warm.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

If you have any leftover cooked cedar plank grilled shrimp, you can easily freeze it for future meals. Proper freezing techniques are essential to preserve quality. Allow the shrimp to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date. Cooked shrimp can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently using one of the methods mentioned above.

Perfect Pairings: Side Dishes for Your Shrimp

Cedar Plank Grilled Shrimp is a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, complementing its smoky, savory, and often sweet or zesty flavors. Here are some fantastic options to complete your meal:

• Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: A creamy, tangy pasta salad with the irresistible crunch of bacon provides a refreshing contrast to the warm shrimp.
• Southern Baked Beans: Rich, sweet, and savory baked beans offer a hearty, comforting accompaniment that’s a BBQ classic.
• Southern Coleslaw: A cool, crisp, and creamy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the shrimp and offers a textural balance.
• Southern Potato Salad: Fluffy potatoes in a creamy dressing make for a satisfying and traditional side that always pleases.
• Southern Soul Food Baked Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food, gooey and cheesy macaroni pairs perfectly with any grilled protein.
• Easy Spaghetti Salad: A light and flavorful pasta salad, offering fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing.
• Southern Macaroni Salad: Similar to potato salad, this creamy macaroni salad is a classic picnic staple.
• Instant Pot Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob cooked to perfection provides a simple yet essential summer side.
• Air Fryer Corn on the Cob: For a slightly charred and sweet corn experience, the air fryer delivers a quick and delicious result.

Consider a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing beer to round out your meal, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp and its accompanying sides.

Explore More Shrimp and Seafood Delights

If you’re a fan of the ocean’s bounty, you’ll love these other delicious shrimp and seafood recipes. Expand your culinary repertoire with these mouth-watering options:

• Shrimp and Crab Quiche: A luxurious quiche combining delicate shrimp and rich crab meat.
• Shrimp Pho Noodle Soup: A comforting and aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup with succulent shrimp.
• Healthy Chicken and Shrimp Pad Thai: A lighter version of the classic Thai noodle dish, packed with flavor and lean protein.
• Seafood Shrimp Chili: A hearty and flavorful chili featuring tender shrimp and a medley of seafood.
• Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy, flavorful shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, made healthier in the air fryer.
• Buffalo Shrimp: Zesty, spicy shrimp reminiscent of buffalo wings, perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
• Shrimp Po Boy: A classic Louisiana sandwich with crispy fried shrimp and a tangy remoulade sauce.
• Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Creamy, spicy pasta with tender Cajun-seasoned shrimp.
• Baked Crab Legs: A simple yet indulgent recipe for perfectly baked crab legs.
• Seafood Stuffed Pasta Shells: Pasta shells generously filled with a delicious seafood mixture.
• Jerk Shrimp Recipe: Spicy and flavorful Jamaican-inspired jerk shrimp, bringing a taste of the Caribbean to your table.

Cedar Plank Grilled Shrimp

By Brandi Crawford

This Quick and Easy Cedar Plank Grilled Shrimp recipe offers three delicious flavor options: BBQ, Cilantro Lime, and Sweet Chili. A perfect way to enjoy tender, smoky shrimp for any occasion.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 1 user

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Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 122 kcal

Equipment

• Cedar Grilling Planks
• Grill

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh shrimp (shells removed and deveined. Tails removed is optional.)

Homemade BBQ Rub (for 1 pound of shrimp)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1-2 teaspoons brown sugar or sweetener

Cilantro Lime (for 1 pound of shrimp)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (typically the juice of 1 lime)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sweet Chili (for 1 pound of shrimp)

• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (typically ½ a lime)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Soak your cedar plank in water for at least one hour before using it. Ensure it’s completely submerged in water.
2. Preheat your grill to medium heat (approximately 350°F / 175°C).

BBQ Shrimp

3. Place the shrimp on the pre-soaked cedar plank. Rub olive oil over the shrimp and season generously with the prepared BBQ rub spices.
4. Grill the shrimp for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque white with pink accents and form a “C” shape.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp

3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Place the shrimp in a separate bowl or container. Drizzle the cilantro lime marinade over the shrimp. For an extra burst of flavor, reserve about 20% of the marinade to coat the cooked shrimp.
5. Grill the shrimp for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and exhibiting the desired “C” shape.

Sweet Chili Shrimp

3. In a small bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; stir thoroughly.
4. Add the shrimp to a separate bowl or container. Drizzle the sweet chili marinade over the shrimp. Reserve approximately 20% of the marinade to brush over the cooked shrimp for enhanced flavor.
5. Grill the shrimp for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to perfection.

Recipe Video

A video demonstration for this recipe is available on our website.

Notes

• For an even deeper smoky flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to your shrimp seasoning.
• Feel free to experiment with any seasoning or BBQ rub you prefer to customize your shrimp.
• Using olive oil (or avocado oil) not only adds a lovely flavor but also helps the spices adhere beautifully to the shrimp.
• Remember, raw shrimp is translucent gray; it’s perfectly cooked when it turns opaque white with pink and bright red accents and forms a “C” shape. An “O” shape often indicates overcooking.
• The importance of soaking your cedar plank cannot be overstated. A dry plank can catch fire. Ensure it’s submerged in water for at least an hour before grilling.
• Nutritional information provided assumes the BBQ Shrimp flavor. Please use your preferred macro calculator with the exact branded ingredients you use for the most accurate values.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 122 kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 4g

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using resources like MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for any given recipe, it’s recommended to calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your preparation, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful for your dietary needs.