1-First Step: Prepare the mise en placeStart by patting the 1 1/2 pounds of shrimp dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture for better searing. Mince the 4 cloves of garlic and zest one lemon if desired, then juice it to get 2 tablespoons. Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid charring on the grill. Measure out the 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Having everything ready keeps the process smooth, especially for busy schedules.

2-Second Step: Make the garlic butter basteIn a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, but remember shrimp will amplify flavors. For low-calorie adaptations, halve the butter here. Set aside half for basting during grilling and half for serving. This blend captures the essence of restaurant shrimp.

3-Third Step: Skewer the shrimpThread 4-5 shrimp onto each soaked skewer, piercing through the tail and body for stability. Leave small gaps between pieces for even cooking. Prepare 8-10 skewers depending on size. Brush both sides generously with some of the garlic butter mixture. Let them marinate at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This step infuses flavor deeply into your Texas Roadhouse shrimp copycat. For gluten-free, no changes needed.

4-Fourth Step: Preheat the grillFire up your outdoor grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. Oil the grates lightly with a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to prevent sticking. If using an indoor grill pan or broiler, preheat similarly. Test readiness by holding your hand 5 inches above grates; it should feel hot after 3-4 seconds. This high heat sears the shrimp quickly, locking in juices for the grilled shrimp recipe perfection.

5-Fifth Step: Grill the shrimp skewersPlace skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, basting with more garlic butter each turn. Shrimp turn pink and opaque when done, curling into a C shape. Total cook time is 5-7 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender. For vegan versions, grill mushrooms similarly but extend time by 1-2 minutes. Internal temp should hit 145°F for safety.

6-Final Step: Rest, serve, and enjoyRemove skewers from grill and brush with remaining butter mix. Let rest 2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges, over rice, or in tacos. Pairs well with salads for diet-conscious eaters. This completes your homemade Texas Roadhouse grilled shrimp, ready for any occasion.