What to Serve with BBQ Shrimp – 17 Perfect Pairings
Juicy shrimp marinated and grilled is a must-try dish and always a crowd favorite! But even if the shrimp steals the show, let’s not forget about what to serve with BBQ shrimp. We’re going to explore some tasty and easy-to-make options to complement your BBQ shrimp.
From classic Southern staples to unique and unexpected side dishes, get ready to impress your guests! So fire up that grill and get ready to serve up some deliciousness with my guide on what to serve with BBQ shrimp.
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is golden brown, sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Each bite of this easy recipe is enhanced by the perfect amount of melted butter and a sprinkle of salt. You can also sprinkle on some parmesan cheese for a lot more flavor!
2. Coleslaw
This refreshing and zesty mix of thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, and peppers tossed in a tangy creamy dressing is a great choice for balancing the flavor of your shrimp meal.
3. Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Tender and perfectly charred, these thin slices of zucchini and yellow squash, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices are so flavorful! If you want to add a burst of smoky flavor to your BBQ shrimp, plus a healthy twist, this is a great side dish.
4. Red Beans and Rice
Red beans and rice is a soulful dish made with creamy red beans and fluffy rice and a flavorful blend of spices. This classic Southern side makes it a standout side for New Orleans BBQ shrimp. You can also make this combo with black beans for a little bit of a different flavor!
5. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes is a simple recipe that’s creamy, buttery, and loaded with a garlicky kick. The smooth texture and delicious flavor make this side dish a comforting and satisfying addition to any grilled meal.
6. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is crispy and tender at the same time! Coat the fresh asparagus in a light layer of olive oil with, lemon zest, lemon juice, or lemon pepper seasoning you’ve got an ideal side dish for BBQ shrimp.
7. Macaroni and Cheese
Who doesn’t love layers of gooey, melted cheddar cheese and tender macaroni baked until it’s golden and bubbly? This indulgent side dish is always a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with your grilled shrimp main dish.
8. Jalapeno Bacon Cornbread
This is a deliciously spicy twist on traditional cornbread, with crispy bits of bacon and fiery jalapeno peppers that give you a flavor explosion in every bite. If you like a bit of spiciness in your meal, this is a great choice to serve with shrimp.
9. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potatoes have the best flavor and they’re great as an alternative to regular french fries! Thinly sliced sweet potatoes coated in a crispy seasoning blend and baked to perfection is an easy side dish that’s a healthier alternative with a flavor that complements the bold flavors of BBQ shrimp recipe.
10. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Anytime we have any kind of BBQ flavored foods, I think we need crunchy veggies grilled on skewers! Grilled fresh veggies like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms are the perfect pairing for BBQ shrimp. This is a great way to add some variety of healthy veggies to your meal!
11. Tomato and Cucumber Salad
Easy side dishes are the best side dishes, in my opinion! This delicious salad is a summery blend of ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, and a tangy, creamy dressing is a seriously refreshing side dish. This light salad adds so much fresh flavor to the meal. This is a favorite recipe for my family and I appreciate how simple and quick it is to make it!
12. BBQ Baked Beans
The classic BBQ side dish, slow-cooked with a rich and smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and a burst of flavor from a blend of spices is one of those delicious sides that is always enjoyed by everyone! This is the perfect dish for a cookout or a weeknight around the dinner table.
13. Grilled Pineapple
Fresh pineapple slices cooked on the grill until they are caramelized and juicy make such a great flavor combination with BBQ shrimp! The sweet flavor combined with a spicy BBQ sauce is seriously mouth-watering. Plus it’s a healthy side dish for a complete meal!
14. Sautéed Green Beans
If you want something easy and healthy, sautéed green beans are the right side dish for your meal! Crisp green beans, sautéed with garlic powder or fresh garlic and butter makes a simple but really flavorful side dish for any meal. Green beans almondine is another great option.
15. Jasmine Rice
Jasmine rice is soft and fluffy and has a subtle floral flavor. This is a great option if you’re looking for a milder option for pairing with the bold flavors of BBQ shrimp.
16. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a classic pairing for grilled shrimp. Whether you marinate them first or simply let the grill add the flavor, serve them alongside or on top of this tasty salad to complete your meal.
17. Deviled Egg Potato Salad
This fun variation on a classic Southern potato salad is another great side for grilled shrimp. Chock full of hard-boiled eggs with all the flavor of deviled eggs and hearty potatoes to balance the light flavors of shrimp prepared on the grill.
