Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you're craving a quick and flavor-packed cook, this Cowboy Butter Shrimp hits all the marks. Smoky, garlicky, and buttery with a touch of heat, it's the kind of backyard griddle magic that makes you wish smell-o-vision was real. Using the Karbon Steel Griddle on your Kamado Joe brings restaurant-quality sear and flavor right to your backyard.

"Charred edges, buttery garlic heat, and a cowboy kick—this shrimp is next level."

Tips for Cowboy Butter Shrimp on the Griddle

  • Don’t overcrowd the griddle—work in batches if needed.

  • Keep the lid open during cooking to maintain even sear.

  • Use freshly grated garlic for bold flavor in the butter.

  • Cowboy butter also works great with grilled steak or corn.

Why Karbon Steel?

The Karbon Steel Griddle Accessory is perfect for Cowboy Butter Shrimp because it provides even heat distribution for fast, consistent searing while keeping the shrimp from falling through grill grates. Its flat surface allows the cowboy butter to pool and reduce around the shrimp, infusing maximum flavor without flare-ups or loss. You also get better caramelization and crust thanks to full contact with the hot surface, and it’s ideal for basting throughout the cook. Cleanup is easier too, making it the go-to setup for buttery, garlicky, griddle-seared shrimp on your Kamado Joe.

Cowboy Butter Shrimp

Serves: 4 people
Cook Time: 0 - 30 min
Skill:
Beginner:
Method:
Griddled
Food:
Seafood

Ingredients

  • Cowboy Butter

  • Shrimp

Instructions

  1. 01

    In a bowl, season the raw shrimp with bbq rub. Toss to coat evenly. Let sit while you prepare the cowboy butter.

  2. 02

    In a small saucepan or heat-safe bowl on indirect heat, melt the butter.

  3. 03

    Add garlic, lemon juice, mustard, red pepper flakes, paprika, and optional garlic butter seasoning. Let it simmer gently until fragrant. Reserve a small portion for dipping later.

  4. 04

    Preheat your Kamado Joe with the Karbon Steel Griddle attachment to 350–400°F. Add a light layer of oil to prevent sticking if needed.

  5. 05

    Pour some of the cowboy butter over the shrimp and toss to coat.

  6. 06

    Place shrimp directly on the griddle. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque with a light char.

  7. 07

    After flipping, drizzle with a bit more cowboy butter.

  8. 08

    Remove from heat once fully cooked. Serve hot with the reserved cowboy butter on the side for dipping.