70 Easy Shrimp Recipes for Every Occasion

Shrimp is a versatile seafood staple: it cooks fast, absorbs bold flavors, and works beautifully in everything from quick pasta to zesty tacos. Whether you want a weeknight dinner, a special cookout, or an easy yet show-stopping appetizer, these 70 shrimp recipes offer something for every craving. Let’s dive into all the creative ways you can put shrimp on your table.

Why Shrimp is a Weeknight Hero

• Quick Cooking: Most shrimp dishes are ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy Protein: Lean, low in calories, and full of nutrients.
• Flavor Sponge: Easily takes on bold spices, sauces, or simple flavors.
• Versatility: Equally at home in stir-fries, salads, tacos, or grilled skewers.

Appetizers & Starters

Shrimp’s small size and mild sweetness make it the perfect appetizer ingredient. Try these starter ideas at your next gathering:

• Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon-Horseradish Aioli
  Roasting develops a sweet, concentrated flavor and pairs beautifully with a zesty, creamy dip.
• Crispy Coconut Shrimp
  Crunchy and golden outside with juicy shrimp inside, best served with a sweet chili or pineapple sauce.
• Bang Bang Shrimp
  Crispy shrimp tossed in a spicy creamy sauce—always a crowd-pleaser.

Tacos, Po’ Boys, and Sandwiches

• Shrimp Tacos (Grilled or Crispy)
  Quickly grilled or breaded and fried, then stuffed into tortillas with slaw, salsa, or creamy sauces.
• Shrimp Po’ Boy Burgers
  A Louisiana classic: fried shrimp on soft rolls with zesty remoulade and crisp lettuce.
• Shrimp Rolls
  Chilled shrimp folded with mayo, lemon, and herbs, served in a buttery toasted bun.

Classic Shrimp Pasta Dishes

Shrimp pairs perfectly with all types of pasta, from creamy linguine to spicy spaghetti. Here are some go-to favorites:

• Tuscan Butter Shrimp
  Shrimp seared in olive oil, simmered in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with cherry tomatoes and spinach.
• Shrimp Scampi
  Sauteed shrimp in a garlicky white wine-butter sauce finished with fresh lemon and parsley.
• Shrimp Alfredo
  Rich cream sauce envelops shrimp and fettuccine for pure comfort food.
• Shrimp Fra Diavolo
  A spicy tomato-based pasta, loaded with garlic and red pepper flakes.

One-Skillet and Sheet Pan Meals

For easy cleanup and flavor-packed dinners, try these one-pan wonders:

• Shrimp & Grits
  Creamy Southern-style grits topped with juicy, garlicky shrimp and a hint of bacon.
• Shrimp & Tomato Succotash Skillet
  Sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and shrimp come together for a colorful and hearty skillet dinner.
• Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil
  Shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage roasted together—full-on coastal vibes with almost no mess.

Grilled & BBQ Shrimp

Bring out shrimp’s natural sweetness and snap with these sizzling recipes, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

• Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
  Marinated in lemon, garlic, and capers, then grilled to a juicy char.
• Spicy BBQ Shrimp
  Coated in a zesty rub or sauce and cooked over high heat for max flavor.
• Lemon-Garlic Grilled Shrimp
  Classic and simple—serve over rice or alongside grilled vegetables.

Easy Shrimp Stir-Fry & Asian-Inspired Recipes

• Shrimp Stir Fry
  Quick-cooked shrimp with crisp broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and a flavorful soy-lime sauce.
• Shrimp Fried Rice
  Shrimp and veggies tossed with garlicky rice and a drizzle of sesame oil.
• Shrimp Pad Thai
  Sweet, salty, and tangy rice noodles with shrimp, eggs, and crunchy peanuts.

Shrimp Soups & Stews

• Shrimp Chowder
  Creamy and hearty, this soup brings coastal comfort to chilly nights.
• Shrimp & Corn Soup
  A light, brothy soup featuring the natural sweetness of both shrimp and corn.
• Cajun Shrimp Gumbo
  Loaded with spicy sausage, okra, and shrimp for a deep, flavorful meal.

Tropical & International Shrimp Dishes

• Shrimp Ceviche
  Citrus-cured shrimp with onion, tomato, and fresh herbs—perfect for summer snacking.
• Garlic Cilantro Lime Shrimp
  Skillet-seared shrimp tossed in bold citrus and fresh herbs for a Latin-American flair.
• Shrimp Curry
  A creamy coconut base with warming spices brings out shrimp’s sweetness.

Healthy Shrimp Recipes

• Lettuce-Wrapped Shrimp
  Shrimp cooked with ginger, garlic, and green onions, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Grilled Shrimp Salad
  Skewered, grilled shrimp over greens with avocado, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette.
• Shrimp & Quinoa Bowls
  Layered with veggies and herbs for a nutrient-packed lunch or dinner.

How to Prep and Cook Shrimp

Popular Shrimp Recipe Highlight: Classic Shrimp Scampi

This Italian-American dish has become a weeknight favorite. Here’s a quick overview of how it comes together:

1. Toss peeled, deveined shrimp with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let rest briefly.
2. Brown more garlic in butter, then toast breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
3. Sauté shrimp until pink, remove from pan.
4. Deglaze the pan with white wine and lemon juice, add butter for a velvety sauce, and return shrimp to heat through.
5. Finish with parsley and toasted breadcrumbs on top.

Quick and Easy Shrimp Stir Fry

This go-to Asian-inspired recipe is perfect for busy nights:

• Sizzle shrimp in olive oil with salt and pepper; set aside.
• Stir-fry broccoli, bell pepper, and sugar snap peas in sesame oil; add garlic and ginger.
• Whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and cornstarch; add to veggies.
• Return shrimp to the skillet and heat everything through.

Tips for Buying the Best Shrimp

• Fresh vs. Frozen: Most shrimp is frozen soon after harvest—choose frozen if it looks fresher than fish case offerings.
• Wild-Caught or Sustainable: Look for labels indicating wild-caught or sustainably farmed choices whenever possible.
• Size Counts: ‘Jumbo’ or ‘large’ shrimp work best for grilling and main dishes.
• Peeled/Deveined: Saves prep time, especially for quick weeknight meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I tell when shrimp are cooked?

A: Shrimp are done when their flesh turns opaque and they curl into a ‘C’ shape. Overcooked shrimp look tight and become rubbery.

Q: What’s the best way to thaw frozen shrimp?

A: Place in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes, or thaw overnight in the fridge. Avoid warm water to prevent uneven thawing.

Q: Should I leave the shells on or off when cooking?

A: Shells add flavor in dishes like boils or curries but are usually removed for pastas and salads. Tails can be left on for presentation or removed for easier eating.

Q: Are shrimp recipes good for meal prep?

A: Yes! Shrimp cook quickly and hold up well for a few days in the fridge, especially in salads, stir-fries, or rice bowls.

More Ways to Serve Shrimp: Sides & Sauces

• Rice pilaf, orzo, or flavored couscous.
• Lemon-garlic aioli, spicy remoulade, or creamy dips.
• Crisp salads or crunchy slaw for tacos and sandwiches.
• Lime wedges, fresh herbs, or toasted breadcrumbs for finishing.

Conclusion: Master the Art of Cooking Shrimp

Whether you enjoy sizzling skewers on the grill, quick weeknight pastas, or bold appetizers at your next party, shrimp delivers taste and convenience every time. Experiment with spices, sauces, and sides—and don’t be afraid to get creative with your own flavor combinations. With these 70 easy shrimp recipes, dinner (or entertaining) is always exciting and effortless.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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