What Do You Serve with Barbecue Shrimp? Best Pairings

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Introduction

What do you serve with barbecue shrimp? This is a common question when preparing this cherished Southern and Cajun dish, known for its robust flavors and rich, buttery sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or planning a casual meal, pairing this indulgent dish with the right sides is key to elevating the experience.

The best accompaniments should complement the shrimp’s smoky, tangy, or spicy notes, creating a well-rounded dining experience. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of classic, vegetable-based, starchy, and refreshing side dishes, as well as beverages and desserts, to perfectly serve with barbecue shrimp. From crusty bread to creamy grits and zesty salads, these options are sure to inspire your next meal.

Follow this detailed guide to achieve perfectly grilled BBQ shrimp every time.

Classic Side Dishes to Serve with Barbecue Shrimp

Barbecue shrimp’s rich and buttery sauce is one of its defining features, and classic side dishes help enhance its bold flavors. These staples are perfect for soaking up the sauce or balancing the dish’s spices, making them an essential part of the meal.

Crusty Bread: A Must-Have for Soaking Up the Sauce

One of the simplest yet most essential pairings for barbecue shrimp is crusty bread. Whether it’s a French baguette, sourdough loaf, or even Italian ciabatta, bread serves as the perfect vehicle for scooping up every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Why It Works: The soft interior of the bread absorbs the shrimp’s buttery sauce, while the crust provides a satisfying crunch.
How to Prepare: Slice the bread into thick pieces and lightly toast it for extra texture. Consider brushing it with garlic butter or olive oil and herbs for added flavor.
Serving Tip: Place a basket of warm bread on the table and encourage guests to use it as a utensil to enjoy the sauce.

Steamed White Rice: A Neutral Base to Balance Flavors

Steamed white rice is another classic option that pairs beautifully with barbecue shrimp. Its neutral flavor allows the shrimp and sauce to shine, while its texture adds a comforting element to the dish.

Why It Works: Rice balances the richness of the sauce and helps stretch the dish to feed more people.
How to Prepare: Cook long-grain rice or jasmine rice until fluffy. If desired, add a pat of butter or a pinch of fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor.
Serving Tip: Serve the shrimp and sauce directly over the rice to create a one-bowl meal that’s both satisfying and easy to eat.

Discover expert advice on preparing shrimp for the grill.

Grits: A Southern Favorite for a Creamy, Hearty Pairing

In the Southern United States, grits are a go-to side dish for shrimp dishes, including barbecue shrimp. Their creamy texture complements the sauce, creating a decadent pairing.

Why It Works: Grits add a hearty and slightly sweet base that pairs well with the shrimp’s bold flavors.
How to Prepare: Cook stone-ground grits with milk, cream, or broth for a rich and creamy texture. Stir in cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Parmesan, to elevate the flavor.
Serving Tip: Place a generous scoop of grits on the plate, top with barbecue shrimp, and drizzle with extra sauce for an indulgent presentation.

These classic side dishes are staples for good reason—they enhance the shrimp’s bold flavors while offering balance and versatility. Next, we’ll explore vegetable-based sides that bring freshness and texture to the meal.

Enhance your BBQ shrimp experience with perfectly paired side dishes.

Vegetable Sides to Pair with Barbecue Shrimp

Adding vegetable sides to your barbecue shrimp meal brings balance and brightness to the rich, buttery dish. Whether grilled, sautéed, or served raw, vegetables provide fresh flavors, varied textures, and a splash of color to the plate.

Grilled vegetables served alongside barbecue shrimp. — Smoky, char-grilled vegetables perfectly paired with barbecue shrimp

Grilled Vegetables: Enhancing Smoky Flavors

Grilled vegetables are an excellent accompaniment to barbecue shrimp, as their smoky, charred flavors pair seamlessly with the shrimp’s bold seasoning.

Why It Works: The natural sweetness of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus is heightened by grilling, providing a contrast to the shrimp’s richness.
How to Prepare: Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then grill them until tender with slight char marks. For added flavor, use a marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Serving Tip: Arrange the vegetables on a platter alongside the shrimp for a colorful and visually appealing presentation.

Sautéed Greens: Adding a Touch of Bitterness for Balance

Sautéed greens such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard offer a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that balances the sweetness and richness of barbecue shrimp.

Why It Works: The bitterness of greens cuts through the buttery sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
How to Prepare: Sauté the greens in olive oil or butter with garlic, shallots, or red pepper flakes. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth.
Serving Tip: Serve the greens in a shallow bowl or plate them directly under the shrimp to let the sauce blend with their flavor.

Fresh Coleslaw: Crunchy, Tangy Contrast

A crisp, tangy coleslaw is a refreshing counterpoint to barbecue shrimp. Its crunch and acidity provide a welcome contrast to the rich dish.

Why It Works: The tangy vinegar or creamy dressing in coleslaw balances the shrimp’s spices and buttery sauce.
How to Prepare: Shred cabbage, carrots, and onions, and toss them in a dressing made from apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, or a combination of all three. Add a pinch of sugar or honey for sweetness.
Serving Tip: Serve the coleslaw chilled in a separate bowl or alongside the shrimp for a pop of freshness.

These vegetable sides bring vibrant flavors, textures, and nutrients to your meal. Up next, we’ll dive into starchy pairings that provide heartiness and comfort to your barbecue shrimp spread.

Starch Pairings to Serve with Barbecue Shrimp

Starch-based sides are perfect for rounding out a barbecue shrimp meal. They offer comfort, substance, and a variety of textures that pair well with the shrimp’s bold, buttery flavors.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and Comforting

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs beautifully with barbecue shrimp. Their creamy texture and subtle garlic flavor complement the shrimp’s rich sauce.

Why It Works: The mashed potatoes provide a hearty, velvety base that absorbs the shrimp’s sauce while adding a mild, savory flavor.
How to Prepare: Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash them with roasted garlic, butter, cream, and a pinch of salt. For extra creaminess, consider adding sour cream or cream cheese.
Serving Tip: Serve the mashed potatoes as a bed for the shrimp, allowing the sauce to mingle with the potatoes for a decadent combination.

Cornbread: A Sweet and Savory Southern Staple

Cornbread is a quintessential Southern side that pairs perfectly with barbecue shrimp. Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture complement the dish’s bold and buttery notes.

Why It Works: Cornbread provides a balance of sweetness and earthiness that contrasts the shrimp’s spices.
How to Prepare: Use a cast-iron skillet to bake cornbread for a golden, crispy crust. Add honey, jalapeños, or shredded cheese to customize the flavor.
Serving Tip: Slice the cornbread into squares or wedges and serve it warm with butter on the side.

Pasta Salad: Light and Versatile

A light pasta salad adds a refreshing element to your barbecue shrimp meal. It’s a versatile option that can be customized with various vegetables, dressings, and seasonings.

Why It Works: The cool, tangy flavors of pasta salad provide a pleasant contrast to the shrimp’s richness, while the pasta adds a filling component to the meal.
How to Prepare: Cook pasta until al dente, then toss it with a vinaigrette or creamy dressing. Add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Serving Tip: Serve the pasta salad chilled as a side dish or plated next to the shrimp for a vibrant and colorful presentation.

These starch pairings bring heartiness and texture to your barbecue shrimp meal, ensuring a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience. Coming up next, we’ll explore cold and refreshing side dishes to add a light and cooling element to the meal.

Cold and Refreshing Options to Serve with Barbecue Shrimp

For a meal as rich and flavorful as barbecue shrimp, cold and refreshing sides provide a cooling contrast that balances the dish. These light and crisp options add a burst of freshness to complement the bold flavors of the shrimp.

Cucumber Salad: Light and Cooling

Cucumber salad is a simple and refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with barbecue shrimp. Its crisp texture and tangy dressing provide a cooling element to the meal.

Why It Works: Cucumbers’ natural water content and mild flavor create a palate-cleansing effect, making them ideal for balancing the shrimp’s richness.
How to Prepare: Slice cucumbers thinly and toss them in a dressing of rice vinegar, olive oil, dill, and a pinch of sugar. Add thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor and color.
Serving Tip: Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance its crispness and flavor.

Watermelon Feta Salad: Sweet, Salty, and Refreshing

Watermelon feta salad is a unique and vibrant option that adds a blend of sweet and savory flavors to your meal. The juicy watermelon and creamy feta cheese make a delightful contrast to the shrimp.

Why It Works: The sweetness of watermelon offsets the spiciness of the shrimp, while the salty feta adds depth. Fresh mint or basil ties it all together.
How to Prepare: Dice watermelon into bite-sized cubes and mix with crumbled feta cheese. Toss with a light drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lime juice, and chopped mint leaves.
Serving Tip: Serve the salad on a platter, garnished with extra mint and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.

Mixed Green Salad: A Classic Fresh Option

A mixed green salad is a timeless choice that pairs well with nearly any dish, including barbecue shrimp. It’s simple, fresh, and versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste.

Why It Works: The crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette add a refreshing bite that complements the shrimp’s bold flavors.
How to Prepare: Combine a variety of greens such as arugula, spinach, and romaine. Toss with a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Add toppings like cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or toasted nuts for extra texture.
Serving Tip: Plate the salad in individual bowls or serve it family-style in a large bowl with dressing on the side.

These cold and refreshing sides bring balance and variety to your barbecue shrimp meal, ensuring that the richness of the shrimp doesn’t overwhelm the palate. Up next, we’ll discuss beverages and desserts to round out your dining experience.

Desserts to Complete Your Barbecue Shrimp Meal

The right dessert can elevate your barbecue shrimp meal from satisfying to unforgettable. Pairing the dish with refreshing drinks and delectable sweets adds the perfect finishing touch.

Lemon bars served on a white plate. — Zesty lemon bars to finish your barbecue shrimp meal.

Desserts

Lemon Bars: A Tangy Dessert to Cleanse the Palate

Lemon bars are an excellent choice to follow barbecue shrimp. Their bright, zesty flavor contrasts the dish’s richness and leaves a refreshing aftertaste.

Why It Works: The tartness of lemons cuts through the heaviness of the meal, offering a light and satisfying finish.
Serving Tip: Dust the lemon bars with powdered sugar and serve chilled for the best experience.

Bread Pudding: A Classic Southern Dessert

For a more indulgent ending, bread pudding is a quintessential Southern dessert that pairs beautifully with barbecue shrimp.

Why It Works: The warm, spiced flavors of bread pudding complement the shrimp’s bold seasoning. A drizzle of bourbon or caramel sauce enhances the experience.
Serving Tip: Serve the pudding warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Fresh Berries with Cream: Light and Simple

Fresh berries with cream is a simple yet elegant dessert that adds a touch of sweetness and lightness to your meal.

Why It Works: The natural sweetness and juiciness of berries offer a refreshing end to a rich meal.
Serving Tip: Serve a medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Barbecue Shrimp Pairings

What pairs with barbecue shrimp?

Barbecue shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages, depending on your flavor preferences. Classic sides like crusty bread and steamed rice are ideal for soaking up the buttery sauce. Vegetables such as grilled zucchini, sautéed greens, or fresh coleslaw add freshness and crunch. Starchy sides like garlic mashed potatoes, cornbread, or pasta salad provide a hearty element. For beverages, light lagers, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, or non-alcoholic options like lemonade are excellent choices.

How do you eat New Orleans barbecue shrimp?

New Orleans barbecue shrimp is typically served in its rich, buttery sauce, making it a hands-on, flavorful experience. Here’s how to enjoy it:

Peel the Shrimp: If served in the shell, use your fingers to peel the shrimp. The shells help retain the flavor, so don’t shy away from getting messy.
Dip and Soak: Use crusty bread or rice to soak up the sauce, as it’s the highlight of the dish.
Enjoy the Flavor: Take your time savoring each bite, as the combination of spices, butter, and shrimp creates a deliciously bold taste.
Pro tip: Provide plenty of napkins and a bowl for discarded shells to make cleanup easier!

What flavors pair well with shrimp?

Shrimp is a versatile protein that pairs well with a variety of flavors:

Citrus: Lemon, lime, and orange brighten the taste of shrimp and balance its sweetness.
Herbs and Spices: Garlic, parsley, basil, paprika, and cayenne pepper enhance shrimp’s natural flavor.
Butter and Cream: Rich, creamy sauces, often infused with garlic or herbs, are classic pairings.
Sweet and Savory: Shrimp works well with ingredients like honey, soy sauce, or chili sauce for a sweet-savory profile.
Wine or Vinegar: White wine, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar add acidity and depth to shrimp dishes.

Why is BBQ shrimp called BBQ shrimp?

The term “BBQ shrimp” can be misleading because the dish isn’t cooked on a barbecue grill. The name likely refers to the bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors reminiscent of barbecue sauces. New Orleans barbecue shrimp, specifically, is prepared by sautéing shrimp in a rich sauce made with butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. The dish originated in New Orleans and is a staple of Creole cuisine, celebrated for its flavorful, saucy preparation rather than traditional grilling techniques.

Learn how to prepare your grill for a seamless BBQ shrimp cooking session.

Conclusion

Barbecue shrimp is a dish bursting with flavor, and pairing it with the right sides, beverages, and desserts ensures a memorable dining experience. From crusty bread and creamy grits to tangy cucumber salad and zesty lemon bars, these accompaniments enhance every bite. Whether you prefer classic Southern staples or fresh and light options, this guide provides plenty of inspiration to create a balanced and satisfying meal.