15 Shrimp Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Shrimp recipes bring delicious flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. They are versatile and can be prepared in many styles. This makes them suitable for a quick weeknight meal or a fancy dinner.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, you can find shrimp recipes that fit your skill level and taste preferences.

With options ranging from classic dishes like shrimp scampi to spicy shrimp tacos, there is something for everyone. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with various ingredients, making meal prep simple and satisfying. You can easily create memorable meals that your family and friends will love.

1) Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a tasty and quick dish. You can make it in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The garlic butter sauce gives it a rich flavor that pairs well with shrimp.

Start by cooking your shrimp until they are pink. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. While cooking, add garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan for extra flavor.

You can serve your garlic butter shrimp with pasta or a slice of bread. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood with delicious sauce!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink.
3. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
5. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Return shrimp to the pan.
7. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve and garnish with parsley.

2) Cajun Blackened Shrimp

Cajun blackened shrimp is a flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to make. The shrimp are coated in a mix of spices, giving them a delicious kick. You can enjoy these shrimp on their own or as part of a meal.

To make this dish, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. They should be peeled and deveined. A hot skillet is key for getting that perfect sear.

You can use blackened seasoning or make your own with spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Cook the shrimp in a bit of oil for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re charred and cooked through.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning (or to taste)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C).
2. Add olive oil and let it warm.
3. Season shrimp with blackened seasoning.
4. Place shrimp in the skillet in batches.
5. Cook for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.

3) Shrimp Étouffée

Shrimp étouffée is a delicious, hearty dish from Louisiana. It features shrimp cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce. The base often includes the Holy Trinity of vegetables: onions, bell peppers, and celery.

You start by making a roux, which thickens the sauce and adds depth. Cook it until it’s a nice golden brown. Then, mix in your vegetables and let them soften.

After that, add broth and shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, which usually takes about five minutes. Finish with your favorite seasonings to give it that Cajun kick!

Ingredients

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 2 cups chicken or seafood broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4) Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. The creamy grits serve as a perfect base for the savory shrimp.

To make this dish, start by cooking the grits until they are soft and creamy. You can use broth or milk for added flavor. Stir in some butter and cheese for extra creaminess.

Next, cook the shrimp with spices and add items like bacon or sausage for a heartier taste. Combining these ingredients creates a delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with the grits.

Serving this dish is easy. Just spoon the grits onto a plate and top with the shrimp mixture. It makes a delightful meal for family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups broth or milk
• 2 cups shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Bring broth or milk to a boil.
2. Stir in grits and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In another pan, sauté shrimp in butter until pink.
4. Add salt, pepper, and optional ingredients like bacon.
5. Serve shrimp over the creamy grits.

5) Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas

Shrimp ceviche tostadas are a vibrant and fresh dish perfect for a sunny day. The shrimp is “cooked” in citrus juices, making it tender and delicious. You can enjoy these as an appetizer or a light meal.

Start with chopped raw shrimp, lime juice, and a mix of veggies like jalapeños, onions, and cilantro. Let the shrimp marinate for a bit. This helps enhance the flavors.

Serve the mixture on crispy tostada shells for added crunch. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a tasty treat!

Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp, chopped
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1 jalapeño, chopped
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Tostada shells

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix shrimp and lime juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. Add jalapeño, onion, and cilantro. Stir to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve the ceviche on tostada shells and enjoy!

6) Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Honey garlic shrimp stir fry is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can enjoy succulent shrimp mixed with fresh veggies all in a delicious honey garlic sauce.

Start by marinating your shrimp in garlic, ginger, honey, and soy sauce. This creates a wonderful flavor that seeps into the shrimp.

Cook them in a hot skillet for about 3 minutes on one side until they turn pink. Add your choice of veggies and sauté everything together for a few more minutes until they are tender.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, and bell pepper)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
2. Marinate shrimp in the mixture for 15 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).
4. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 3 minutes.
5. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

7) Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

This Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry is a flavorful dish that warms the soul. You’ll enjoy the blend of coconut milk and spices, making it creamy and rich.

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink. The coconut milk adds a nice sweetness to the curry.

Serve this curry with steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce perfectly, making each bite delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in ginger and red curry paste, cooking for another minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot with jasmine rice.

8) Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers are a tasty and quick dish perfect for any gathering. They are easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or main course.

Start with fresh shrimp and marinate them in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for great flavor. After marinating, thread the shrimp onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them to prevent burning.

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

These skewers pair well with rice, salads, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Cooking Instructions

1. Marinate the shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 15 minutes.
2. Thread the shrimp onto skewers.
3. Preheat the grill to 350°F (175°C).
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked.

9) Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a deliciously spicy dish that packs a lot of flavor. It features tender shrimp cooked in a zesty tomato sauce. You can have this meal ready in just 30 minutes.

To make Shrimp Fra Diavolo, you typically need shrimp, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and spices like red pepper flakes. Serve it over pasta for a satisfying dinner your family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Pasta of your choice

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
4. Cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and firm.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve over cooked pasta and sprinkle with parsley.

10) Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta is a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it great for a weeknight dinner.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions.

While your pasta cooks, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce.

In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for a minute. Add your shrimp, cooking until they turn opaque. Toss in fresh herbs, lemon juice, and zest for a bright flavor.

Finally, combine the pasta with the shrimp mixture. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch!

Ingredients

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (like bow-tie or spaghetti)
• ½ lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh herbs (like parsley and basil)
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until they turn opaque (about 4 minutes).
5. Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs.
6. Combine shrimp mixture with drained pasta.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

11) Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Bacon-wrapped shrimp are a delicious appetizer that’s easy to make. The combination of smoky bacon and juicy shrimp creates a tasty bite.

To prepare, you’ll need to marinate the shrimp for extra flavor. A simple mix of olive oil, salt, and pepper works well.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Wrap each shrimp with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Place the shrimp on a baking sheet.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy. You can also grill them for a smoky flavor.

Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Bacon slices
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Marinate shrimp in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Wrap each shrimp in bacon.
4. Secure with a toothpick.
5. Place on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bacon is crispy.

12) Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Spicy shrimp tacos are a delightful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. You’ll love the blend of flavors and textures in each bite.

Start by cooking seasoned shrimp until they are golden and cooked through.

To make it even better, prepare a refreshing sauce. Mix sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and chopped cilantro for a tasty topping.

Warm your tortillas in a pan for a soft, delicious base.

Fill them with the shrimp, drizzle the sauce, and add your favorite toppings like slaw and avocado.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Season shrimp with taco seasoning.
2. Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
3. Cook shrimp for 3-4 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
4. In a bowl, mix sour cream, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas in a pan.
6. Assemble tacos with shrimp and sauce. Enjoy!

13) Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli

Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli is a creamy and delicious dish that’s easy to make. You will enjoy the combination of shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce over pasta. It’s perfect for a quick dinner.

Start by cooking your choice of pasta, like fettuccine or rotini.

While the pasta cooks, sauté fresh or frozen shrimp in a skillet. Add in broccoli to steam it until tender, which takes just a couple of minutes.

For the sauce, you can use a store-bought Alfredo or make your own with cream, garlic, and cheese.

Toss the pasta with the shrimp, broccoli, and sauce until everything is well coated. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 1 cup of Alfredo sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet; cook until tender, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in the Alfredo sauce and heated pasta.
6. Mix well and serve hot.

14) Shrimp Paella

Shrimp paella is a delicious dish that features shrimp, rice, and a mix of flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings and a great way to impress guests.

To start, you’ll need a large pan to cook everything together.

You sauté vegetables, like onions and bell peppers, in olive oil to create a flavorful base. Then, add rice and seasonings like saffron for that signature flavor and color.

After the rice is nearly cooked, add the shrimp. Allow it to simmer until the shrimp turns pink.

The result is a colorful and tasty dish that showcases the goodness of shrimp.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon saffron
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 7-10 minutes.
3. Stir in rice and saffron, season with salt and pepper.
4. Add water (2 cups) and bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Cook for 15 minutes, then add shrimp.
7. Cook until shrimp is pink, about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Shrimp Piccata

Shrimp Piccata is a delightful Italian dish that you can prepare quickly. It features succulent shrimp cooked in a buttery, lemony sauce with capers. This dish is light and full of flavor.

You start by cooking the shrimp in a mix of olive oil and butter. The bright taste of lemon and the salty punch from capers bring everything together.

Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup capers, drained
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F / 180°C).
2. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in lemon juice, capers, and chicken broth.
4. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve.