Easy Foil Packet Garlic Mojo Shrimp Recipe
These foil-packet garlic mojo shrimp deliver juicy, flavorful results with almost no clean-up. Fresh shrimp steam with garlic, lemon, butter, and colorful vegetables inside a sealed foil pouch. The low-and-slow method keeps everything tender and infused with classic mojo de ajo taste. It is the kind of simple, impressive dish that works for weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Why you’ll love this recipe
Juicy shrimp and vegetables cook together in one sealed foil packet for bold garlic flavor.
- Almost zero clean-up after cooking
- Bright lemon and garlic mojo taste
- Vegetables cook perfectly with the shrimp
- Ready in about 30 minutes total
Ingredients
These fresh ingredients create the exact garlic mojo shrimp foil packets shown in the video.
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ red onion, sliced
- 1 carrot, cut into sticks
- 1 zucchini, cut into sticks
- Salt and black pepper
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- 2 tbsp butter
Frozen shrimp work well once fully thawed and patted dry. Swap zucchini for yellow squash if preferred. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the salt and pepper before sealing the packet.
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Step-by-step instructions
These clear steps produce tender garlic mojo shrimp with perfectly cooked vegetables every time.
Step 1: Prepare the foil
Tear off a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil and place it on a flat surface. Drizzle the olive oil in the center to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Step 2: Layer the vegetables
Arrange the sliced red onion, carrot sticks, and zucchini sticks on top of the oil. Season the vegetables lightly with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Add the shrimp
Place the raw peeled shrimp in an even layer over the vegetables. Season the shrimp with additional salt and pepper so every piece is well coated.
Step 4: Add garlic and lemon
Spoon the minced garlic evenly over the shrimp. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice across the top for bright citrus flavor.
Step 5: Finish with herbs and butter
Scatter fresh cilantro sprigs over the mixture. Place the butter on top so it melts and creates a rich garlic sauce while cooking.
Step 6: Seal the packet
Fold the foil tightly over the ingredients and crimp the edges to form a sealed packet. Make sure no steam can escape during cooking.
Step 7: Cook slowly
Place the sealed packet in a skillet or on a griddle over low heat. Cook for 25 minutes without opening so the shrimp and vegetables steam gently.
Step 8: Open and serve
Carefully open the packet away from your face to release the steam. Serve the shrimp and vegetables immediately with the flavorful juices.
Tips & common mistakes
A few simple habits guarantee tender shrimp and perfectly cooked vegetables every time.
- Always seal the foil packet tightly
- Keep the heat low to avoid overcooking
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning
- Do not open the packet while cooking
Recipe variations
Simple changes let you adapt this garlic mojo shrimp to different tastes and ingredients.
- Add sliced bell peppers for extra color
- Use lime juice instead of lemon
- Swap shrimp for scallops or firm white fish
- Cook the packet on a grill for smoky flavor
What to serve with this recipe
Light sides complement the rich garlic butter and keep the meal balanced.
- Steamed white rice or quinoa
- Warm crusty bread for the juices
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Chilled white wine or sparkling water
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Frequently asked questions
These quick answers help you get perfect results the first time you make the dish.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat dry first. Excess moisture will dilute the garlic butter sauce inside the packet.
How do I know the shrimp are done?
The shrimp should be pink and opaque after 25 minutes. Avoid overcooking or they will become rubbery and tough.
Can I bake the foil packet instead?
Yes, bake at 375 °F for about 20–25 minutes. The stovetop low-heat method keeps the texture especially tender.
What other vegetables work well?
Bell peppers, asparagus, or thinly sliced potatoes all work. Keep the pieces similar in size so everything cooks evenly.
Final thoughts
These foil-packet garlic mojo shrimp prove that bold flavor and easy clean-up can go hand in hand. The sealed pouch locks in the garlic, lemon, and butter while the vegetables turn tender and sweet. Make a batch this week and enjoy the aroma when you open the foil. Leave a comment or rating below to share how it turned out!
