15 Shrimp Dinner Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious

If you’re looking for quick meal ideas, shrimp dinner recipes are a fantastic choice. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also offer great flavor and a variety of options for any palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, shrimp can be a versatile ingredient that shines in many dishes.

From light and healthy options to rich and hearty meals, there is something for everyone. You can prepare shrimp in a matter of minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. With a little creativity and a few ingredients, you can enjoy a satisfying shrimp dish that will impress your family or friends.

1) Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for dinner. You can make it in about 20 minutes. The garlic and butter create a rich sauce that complements the shrimp beautifully.

To make it even better, consider adding lemon juice for a fresh zing. You can serve this dish over pasta or with vegetables for a healthier option.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons (60 g) butter
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter.
2. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink.
5. Stir in lemon juice and cook for 1 more minute.
6. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve.

2) Cajun Blackened Shrimp

Cajun blackened shrimp is a quick and tasty dinner option. The shrimp are coated in spicy Cajun seasonings. Then, they are seared to perfection in a hot pan. This cooking method gives the shrimp a flavorful, dark crust.

You can serve the shrimp on tacos, over rice, or in a salad. The juicy shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Cooking Instructions

1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
2. Coat the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning evenly.
3. Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
4. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.
5. Serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!

3) Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delicious dish that brings the taste of the islands to your table. This recipe is known for its bold garlic flavor and rich buttery sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh shrimp, garlic, and some spices. The shrimp cook fast, so you can enjoy your meal in no time. Serve it over rice to soak up the tasty sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice (for serving)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp are pink.
4. Stir in soy sauce and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve over rice and garnish with parsley.

4) Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that’s both comforting and delicious. You can make a creamy base with grits and top it with perfectly cooked shrimp. This meal is great for any occasion.

To make the grits, cook them slowly with water or broth, milk, and butter until they are thick and creamy. Stir frequently to avoid lumps.

For the shrimp, sauté them with garlic and spices for a few minutes until they turn pink. Serve the shrimp over the warm grits for a delightful combination.

Ingredients

• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring the broth to a boil in a large saucepan.
2. Slowly add the grits, stirring well. Reduce the heat and cover.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes until thick, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink.
7. Serve shrimp over grits. Enjoy!

5) Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Shrimp tacos with mango salsa are a tasty and quick dinner choice. They combine tender shrimp and a refreshing mango salsa that adds a sweet twist.

To make these tacos, you can use warm corn tortillas. The creamy cilantro lime sauce enhances the flavors nicely. If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add sliced jalapeños to your tacos.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare them for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt, to taste
• Corn tortillas

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
3. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they are opaque.
4. Fill corn tortillas with shrimp and top with mango salsa. Enjoy!

6) Thai Red Curry Shrimp

Thai Red Curry Shrimp is a flavorful and quick dish you can enjoy for dinner. The combination of shrimp and red curry paste brings a delicious taste to your table. You’ll love how simple it is to make.

Start by heating oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Add garlic and ginger for an aromatic boost. Then, toss in shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink.

Next, mix in coconut milk and your favorite vegetables. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Finish with lime juice and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Serve over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetables (like bell peppers or snap peas)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh basil and cilantro

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side.
4. Stir in coconut milk and vegetables.
5. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add lime juice and herbs before serving.

7) Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that’s quick and easy to make. You can prepare it in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Start by cooking your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine. In a skillet, use olive oil and butter for a rich sauce. Fresh garlic adds great flavor, so don’t skip it!

Add medium shrimp to the pan and cook until they’re pink. Mix in lemon juice and grated Parmesan for a tasty finish. Serve it hot and enjoy!

Ingredients

• Spaghetti or linguine
• Medium shrimp
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Fresh garlic
• Lemon juice
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp, cooking each side until pink, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.
6. Combine with pasta, season, and serve.

8) Grilled Tequila-Lime Shrimp

Grilled tequila-lime shrimp is a delicious and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tequila and lime gives the shrimp a unique flavor that is refreshing and exciting.

To make this dish, start by marinating your shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, tequila, garlic, and spices. Let the shrimp soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the shrimp on skewers over medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C) for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Serve them with fresh cilantro for an added touch.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) tequila
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) lime juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine tequila, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F or 200°C).
4. Thread shrimp on skewers.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

9) Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas

Shrimp ceviche tostadas are a refreshing and easy meal perfect for any occasion. You start by marinating fresh shrimp in lime juice, which “cooks” them without heat.

Add chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro for flavor. Pile this mixture onto crispy tostada shells for the best bite.

Tostadas provide a nice crunch that complements the zesty shrimp. Enjoy these tasty treats at a gathering or as a light dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced onions
• 1 jalapeño, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Tostada shells
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine shrimp and lime juice. Let it marinate for 1-2 hours.
2. Add tomatoes, onions, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt.
3. Mix well.
4. Serve on tostada shells.

10) Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is a tasty dish that combines crispy shrimp with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. You can serve it as an appetizer or a main course. It’s perfect for any seafood lover!

To prepare this dish, you’ll need shrimp, cornstarch, and a simple sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Fry or air-fry the shrimp until golden and crunchy.

Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them in the sauce to get that flavorful coating. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (to taste)
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Coat the shrimp in cornstarch.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
3. Fry shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes each side.
4. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
5. Toss the shrimp in the sauce and serve.

11) Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice is a quick and tasty meal you can make at home. It combines shrimp, rice, and veggies for a satisfying dinner.

Start with cooked rice, as it works best when cold. You can use leftover rice or make it fresh and let it cool.

Add some oil to a hot pan and toss in the shrimp. Cook until they turn pink. Then, mix in frozen vegetables like peas and carrots.

Next, add the rice and stir everything together. Don’t forget to season with soy sauce for flavor. You can also add eggs for extra protein and creaminess.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• Optional: green onions for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink.
3. Stir in frozen vegetables; cook for a few minutes.
4. Add the rice and soy sauce, mix well.
5. Push the rice to the side, add eggs, and scramble.
6. Combine everything and serve, garnished with green onions.

12) Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach

Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach is a tasty and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for dinner. It combines succulent shrimp with fresh spinach and rich Alfredo sauce. This meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare.

You can start by cooking fettuccine according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, sauté shrimp in a skillet until they turn pink and are fully cooked.

Next, add fresh spinach and let it wilt for just a minute. Drain the pasta, combine it in the skillet, and stir in Alfredo sauce until everything is well-coated.

Ingredients

• 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated fettuccine
• 1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 jar (15 ounces) Alfredo sauce
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups fresh spinach

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions.
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté shrimp until pink.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
4. Combine shrimp and vegetables with fettuccine.
5. Stir in Alfredo sauce and heat through.

13) Spicy Mexican Camarones a la Diabla

Camarones a la Diabla, or “Devil Shrimp,” is a flavorful Mexican dish known for its spicy kick. You’ll love the combination of shrimp with a zesty red sauce made from dried peppers. It’s perfect for those who enjoy heat in their meals.

To prepare, start by soaking guajillo and chile de árbol peppers. These will give your sauce a smoky and spicy flavor. Sauté the shrimp until they’re just cooked, then add your pepper sauce for a vibrant dish.

Serve with rice or tortillas to balance the spice. This dish is quick and easy, making it great for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 dried guajillo peppers, stemmed and seeded
• 2 dried chile de árbol peppers, stemmed and seeded
• 2 medium ripe Roma tomatoes
• Garlic and onion to taste
• Olive oil
• Salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the guajillo and chile de árbol peppers in hot water for 15 minutes.
2. Blend the soaked peppers with tomatoes, garlic, and onion until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Sauté the shrimp until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot with rice or tortillas.

14) Baked Shrimp with Orzo

Baked shrimp with orzo is a delightful dish that is both easy to prepare and full of flavor. You can enjoy this recipe on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion. The shrimp cooks perfectly alongside the orzo, soaking up all the delicious seasonings.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, prepare your ingredients. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and then set them aside.

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat some olive oil and sauté your choice of vegetables, like onions and garlic. Then add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the orzo, letting it absorb the flavors.

Finally, place the seasoned shrimp on top and bake everything until the shrimp is cooked through.

Ingredients

• Shrimp
• Orzo
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Salt
• Pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic.
4. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
5. Stir in orzo.
6. Place shrimp on top and bake until cooked through.

15) Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This shrimp and avocado salad is a perfect light dinner. It’s refreshing and easy to make, ideal for warm days.

Start by cooking your shrimp. You can grill them or roast them in the oven. If you choose to roast, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until they turn pink.

Next, combine chopped avocados with the shrimp. Toss them gently with lime juice to enhance the flavor. You can serve this salad on a bed of lettuce or in lettuce cups for fun.

Add some chopped tomatoes and cilantro for extra freshness. This dish is quick and full of flavor, making it a favorite for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• Shrimp (about 1 pound)
• 2 ripe avocados
• Lime juice (from 2 limes)
• Lettuce
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast shrimp for 6-8 minutes until pink.
4. Chop avocados and mix with shrimp.
5. Stir in lime juice, tomatoes, and cilantro.
6. Serve on lettuce or in lettuce cups.