How Long To Cook Shrimp On The Blackstone

How Long to Cook Shrimp on a Blackstone Griddle? A Guide to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Cooking shrimp on a Blackstone griddle offers a fantastic way to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp every time. But knowing exactly how long to cook them can be tricky. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring delicious results.

Factors Affecting Shrimp Cooking Time

Several factors influence the cooking time for shrimp on a Blackstone griddle:

Shrimp Size:

• Large Shrimp: Larger shrimp (e.g., 16/20 count) will generally take longer to cook than smaller shrimp.
• Small Shrimp: Smaller shrimp (e.g., 21/25 count or smaller) cook much faster.

Thickness:

• Thick Shrimp: Thicker shrimp require more cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
• Thin Shrimp: Thin shrimp cook quickly, so it's important to watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

Desired Doneness:

• Rare: Shrimp cooked rare will still be slightly translucent in the center.
• Medium: Medium shrimp will be opaque throughout, with a slight give when pressed.
• Well-Done: Well-done shrimp will be firm and opaque. Be careful not to overcook!

Griddle Temperature:

• High Heat: High heat is generally recommended for searing shrimp quickly. However, keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
• Medium Heat: Medium heat is good for more even cooking and is especially helpful for larger or thicker shrimp.

Cooking Time Guidelines

These are general guidelines. Always adjust based on the factors listed above and your personal preference:

Small Shrimp (21/25 count or smaller):

• High Heat: 1-2 minutes per side.
• Medium Heat: 2-3 minutes per side.

Medium Shrimp (16/20 count):

• High Heat: 2-3 minutes per side.
• Medium Heat: 3-4 minutes per side.

Large Shrimp (16/20 count or larger):

• High Heat: 3-4 minutes per side.
• Medium Heat: 4-5 minutes per side.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Blackstone Shrimp

• Pat Shrimp Dry: Before cooking, pat your shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly and prevents them from steaming.
• Don't Overcrowd the Griddle: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use High-Quality Oil: A high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil or grapeseed oil is ideal for high-heat cooking.
• Season Generously: Season your shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasonings before cooking.
• Check for Doneness: The shrimp should turn pink and opaque when cooked through. They should also be firm to the touch.
• Internal Temperature: While not always necessary, using a food thermometer can provide accuracy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Troubleshooting

• Shrimp sticking to the griddle: Ensure your griddle is hot enough and properly oiled before adding the shrimp.
• Shrimp burning: Reduce the heat and/or shorten the cooking time.
• Shrimp not cooking evenly: Ensure they are not overcrowded and are spaced evenly on the griddle.

By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be well on your way to cooking delicious, perfectly cooked shrimp on your Blackstone griddle every time. Enjoy!