Sausage and Shrimp Kabobs Grill

This sausage and shrimp kabob recipe transforms basic ingredients into an impressive dinner with minimal effort. The combination of smoky sausage and succulent shrimp creates a perfect balance of flavors while keeping prep work incredibly simple.

I first made these kabobs when unexpected guests arrived on a summer evening. With just a handful of ingredients I had on hand, I created what has now become our most requested grill recipe whenever friends come over.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage rope: Adds a rich smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood
• Jumbo shrimp with tails on: Provides a beautiful presentation and easier handling
• Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and prevents sticking to the grill
• Barbecue seasoning: Brings all the flavors together without having to measure multiple spices

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Grill:

Heat your grill to 350°F ensuring the grates are thoroughly cleaned to prevent sticking. This temperature provides the perfect heat to cook both proteins evenly without burning the outside.

Prepare the Proteins:

Cut the sausage into slices matching the thickness of your shrimp approximately 1 inch thick. This uniform size ensures everything cooks at the same rate avoiding undercooked or overcooked pieces.

Season Everything:

Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels which helps the seasoning adhere better and prevents steaming rather than grilling. Combine the shrimp, sausage, olive oil, and barbecue seasoning in a bowl tossing gently until everything is evenly coated.

Assemble the Kabobs:

Tuck each sausage slice into the natural curve of a shrimp creating a perfect little package before threading onto skewers. This clever technique keeps the ingredients from spinning when you flip them on the grill.

Grill to Perfection:

Place kabobs over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes then flip once. Continue grilling until shrimp turn completely opaque and have a slight firmness when touched. Avoid overcooking as shrimp can quickly become tough.

The barbecue seasoning is truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered this shortcut years ago when I ran out of my usual spice blend and grabbed a premade mix from the pantry. The depth of flavor was so much better that I never went back to mixing my own for this particular recipe.

Perfect Pairings

These kabobs partner beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. A light rice pilaf or grilled vegetables make ideal accompaniments. For a complete summer meal try serving alongside a watermelon feta salad which provides a refreshing contrast to the savory grilled meats.

Make Ahead Options

You can assemble these kabobs up to 8 hours before cooking. Simply prepare as directed through the skewering step then cover and refrigerate. This makes them perfect for entertaining as all the prep work can be done well before guests arrive. Just remember to bring them to room temperature about 20 minutes before grilling for the most even cooking.

Seasoning Variations

While the recipe calls for barbecue seasoning you can easily customize the flavor profile. Cajun seasoning creates a spicier version while lemon pepper seasoning offers a bright citrusy alternative. For an international twist try a curry powder blend or Greek seasoning mix. The simplicity of the base recipe makes it incredibly adaptable to whatever flavors your family enjoys most.

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Common Queries

→ How do I ensure the shrimp cooks evenly?

To ensure even cooking, use shrimp of similar size and tuck the sausage slice into the shrimp's natural curve to balance their placement on the skewer.

→ Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the kabobs up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Grill them fresh when ready to serve.

→ What should I do if I only have wooden skewers?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.

→ Can I substitute the barbecue seasoning?

Absolutely! Use any seasoning blend you enjoy, such as Cajun or Italian seasoning, to give your kabobs a personalized flavor.

→ What sides pair well with these kabobs?

These kabobs pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, coleslaw, or even a light pasta dish.

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It's best to use raw shrimp for this recipe so they cook evenly with the sausage. Pre-cooked shrimp may overcook and become rubbery on the grill.