21 Easy Shrimp Recipes to Spice Up Your Meals

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Shrimp is a versatile and delicious seafood that can be prepared in countless ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, these 21 easy shrimp recipes will satisfy your cravings and expand your culinary repertoire.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp

Succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. This classic dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
  3. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve.

2. Shrimp Scampi Pasta

A classic Italian-American dish that combines tender shrimp with a light, garlicky sauce over pasta. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb linguine
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
  3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
  4. Pour in wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2 minutes. Toss with pasta, adding pasta water as needed.
  5. Garnish with parsley and serve.

3. Coconut Shrimp

Crispy, golden-brown shrimp coated in coconut flakes. This tropical-inspired dish is perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Sweet chili sauce for dipping

Method:

  1. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with coconut, panko, salt, and pepper mixed.
  2. Dredge shrimp in flour, dip in egg, then coat with coconut mixture.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Drain on paper towels and serve with sweet chili sauce.

4. Shrimp Fried Rice

A quick and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for using up leftover rice. This dish is customizable with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups cooked and cooled rice
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Method:

  1. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add eggs and scramble, then remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, stir-fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add garlic and vegetables, stir-fry for 2 minutes.
  4. Add rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Return shrimp and eggs to the pan, toss to combine, and serve.

5. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

These zesty shrimp skewers are perfect for grilling season. They’re easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Thread shrimp onto skewers.
  4. Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
  5. Serve with lemon wedges.

6. Shrimp Tacos

These fresh and flavorful tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Customize with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • Cilantro for garnish

Method:

  1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil and spices.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
  3. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
  4. Assemble tacos with shrimp, cabbage, sour cream, and cilantro.
  5. Serve with lime wedges.

7. Creamy Shrimp Pasta

This indulgent pasta dish features plump shrimp in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a special dinner at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb fettuccine
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan and butter until melted.
  5. Return shrimp to the skillet, add pasta, and toss to coat. Add pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
  6. Garnish with parsley and serve.

8. Shrimp and Grits

A Southern classic that combines creamy grits with savory shrimp. This comforting dish is perfect for brunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Hot sauce to taste

Method:

  1. In a large pot, bring water and milk to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Stir in butter and cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
  4. Add shrimp and garlic to the skillet, cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
  5. Stir in green onions, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
  6. Serve shrimp over grits, garnished with bacon.

9. Bang Bang Shrimp

This popular appetizer features crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s addictively delicious and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Green onions for garnish

Method:

  1. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko.
  2. Dredge shrimp in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey.
  5. Toss fried shrimp in the sauce and garnish with green onions.

10. Shrimp Ceviche

A refreshing and light appetizer perfect for hot summer days. This no-cook dish lets the flavors of fresh seafood and citrus shine.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
  • 1 cup lime juice (about 8 limes)
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Salt to taste
  • Tortilla chips for serving

Method:

  1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp and lime juice. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until shrimp turns pink and opaque.
  2. Drain excess lime juice, leaving a small amount.
  3. Add onion, cucumber, tomatoes, jalapeño, and cilantro. Toss to combine.
  4. Gently fold in avocado and season with salt.
  5. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.

11. Shrimp Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful meal packed with vegetables and succulent shrimp. This versatile dish can be customized with your favorite veggies and sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Method:

  1. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. Set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds.
  3. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
  4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
  5. Pour in sauce and cook until thickened. Garnish with green onions and serve.

12. Shrimp Alfredo

A creamy, indulgent pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy. This classic combination of shrimp and Alfredo sauce is perfect for a special dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb fettuccine
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  5. Return shrimp to the skillet, add pasta, and toss to coat. Add pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
  6. Garnish with parsley and serve.

13. Shrimp Po’ Boy

A classic New Orleans sandwich featuring crispy fried shrimp. This hearty sandwich is perfect for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 4 French rolls
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • Lettuce leaves
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced
  • Pickle slices

Method:

  1. Soak shrimp in buttermilk for 30 minutes.
  2. Mix flour and Cajun seasoning in a shallow dish.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Dredge shrimp in seasoned flour and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Mix mayonnaise and hot sauce. Spread on rolls.
  6. Assemble sandwiches with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and fried shrimp.

14. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A light and zesty pasta dish perfect for warm evenings. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic complement the shrimp beautifully.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes to taste

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
  4. Add lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Toss with pasta, adding pasta water as needed. Stir in parsley and Parmesan.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve.

15. Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

An easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. These fajitas are colorful, flavorful, and require minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small flour tortillas
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Sour cream and cilantro, for garnish

Method:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. On a large baking sheet, toss shrimp, peppers, and onion with oil and spices.
  3. Spread in a single layer and bake for 8-10 minutes until shrimp is pink and vegetables are tender.
  4. Warm tortillas in the oven for the last 2 minutes.
  5. Serve fajitas with lime wedges, sour cream, and cilantro.

16. Shrimp Salad

A light and refreshing salad that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and can be served in various ways.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lettuce leaves or bread for serving

Method:

  1. Chop cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, red onion, and dill.
  3. Add chopped shrimp and toss to coat.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving on lettuce leaves or as a sandwich filling.

17. Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

A hearty one-pan meal with bold Cajun flavors. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Method:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned.
  2. Add bell pepper and onion, cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic and Cajun seasoning, cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Add shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink.
  6. Garnish with green onions and serve.

18. Shrimp Scampi Dip

A creamy, garlicky dip that’s perfect for parties. This warm dip combines all the flavors of shrimp scampi in a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Baguette slices or crackers for serving

Method:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Fold in chopped shrimp.
  4. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Serve hot with baguette slices or crackers.

19. Shrimp and Corn Chowder

A comforting soup that’s perfect for cooler days. This creamy chowder is packed with shrimp, corn, and potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups corn kernels
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Method:

  1. In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
  2. Add onion and celery, cook until softened.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly.
  4. Add potatoes, corn, and thyme. Simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  5. Stir in cream and shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp is pink.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with bacon and parsley.

20. Shrimp Pad Thai

A popular Thai street food dish that’s easy to make at home. This flavorful noodle dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
  • Lime wedges for serving

Method:

  1. Soak rice noodles in hot water for 15 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice.
  3. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
  5. Add eggs to the pan and scramble.
  6. Add noodles and sauce mixture. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Return shrimp to the pan. Add bean sprouts and green onions. Toss to combine.
  8. Garnish with peanuts and serve with lime wedges.

21. Honey Walnut Shrimp

A popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy shrimp in a sweet and creamy sauce. This indulgent recipe is perfect for a special dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp condensed milk
  • 1 cup walnuts
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water

Method:

  1. In a small saucepan, bring sugar and water to a boil. Add walnuts and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey, and condensed milk.
  3. Dredge shrimp in cornstarch, then dip in beaten eggs.
  4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Toss fried shrimp in the sauce and top with candied walnuts.
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