Looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas? Frozen shrimp can be your secret weapon in the kitchen.
These versatile shellfish thaw rapidly and cook in minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table fast.
From pasta dishes to tacos and curries, frozen shrimp adapts to countless flavor profiles.
You can transform basic frozen shrimp into impressive meals with minimal effort.
Whether you’re craving something spicy like Szechwan shrimp, something comforting like shrimp linguine, or something light like shrimp and zucchini pasta, these recipes deliver restaurant-quality results without complicated techniques.
With the right seasonings and a few simple ingredients, your frozen shrimp can become the star of memorable meals that seem far more time-consuming than they actually are.
1. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic butter shrimp is a quick and delicious way to use frozen shrimp. You can have this mouth-watering dish ready in just 10-20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
The recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the natural sweetness of the shrimp shine through.
You can serve garlic butter shrimp in several ways. Enjoy it with a crusty baguette to soak up the flavorful sauce, toss it with pasta, or serve it as a protein-packed main dish.
For the best results, thaw your frozen shrimp completely before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious garlic butter flavors.
2. Cajun Broiled Shrimp
Cajun broiled shrimp is one of the fastest meals you can make with frozen shrimp. You don’t even need to thaw the shrimp first!
Simply place frozen shrimp on a sheet pan, coat them with Cajun seasoning, and broil. The spicy, savory flavors develop beautifully under the high heat.
The key to great Cajun shrimp is the seasoning blend. Traditional Cajun flavors include paprika, garlic, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs.
For extra flavor, add butter and minced garlic before broiling. Your shrimp will be ready in less than 20 minutes, making this perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Shrimp Scampi with Linguini
Shrimp scampi with linguini is a quick and delicious meal you can prepare using frozen shrimp. This popular dish features tender shrimp and pasta tossed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
To make this dish, you’ll need frozen jumbo shrimp (thawed), garlic, parsley, lemon, and white wine for the signature scampi flavor. The sauce combines these ingredients into a light yet rich coating for both the shrimp and pasta.
For extra flavor, consider adding bell peppers or red pepper flakes as suggested in some recipes.
The entire meal comes together in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something impressive but simple.
4. Honey Garlic Shrimp
Honey garlic shrimp is a quick and delicious meal you can make with frozen shrimp in just 10-20 minutes. The simple sauce combines sweet honey with savory garlic for an irresistible flavor combination.
To prepare, thaw your frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry. Then whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of fish sauce for depth.
Cook the shrimp in a hot pan until pink, then add the sauce. Let it bubble and thicken slightly until it coats the shrimp.
Serve your honey garlic shrimp over rice with vegetables for a complete weeknight dinner that’s both easy and impressive.
5. Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern comfort dish that you can easily make with frozen shrimp. This recipe combines creamy stone-ground grits with juicy shrimp for a delicious meal.
Thaw your frozen shrimp completely before cooking. Have all ingredients ready before you start, as the shrimp only takes a few minutes to cook.
Many versions include bacon for extra flavor. Some recipes add cheese to the grits for richness, while others incorporate French or Italian touches.
You can serve shrimp and grits as a hearty breakfast, satisfying dinner, or even as an appetizer for guests.
6. Coconut-Curry Shrimp
Coconut-curry shrimp turns frozen shrimp into a restaurant-quality meal in just 20-25 minutes. The creamy coconut sauce with red curry paste creates a perfect balance of flavors.
You can keep this dish simple with just shrimp, coconut milk, and curry paste. For more depth, add lime juice and fresh basil as suggested by Ree Drummond’s recipe.
Serve your coconut curry shrimp over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. This Thai-inspired dish works perfectly for weeknight dinners when you need something quick yet impressive.
The one-pan cooking method makes cleanup easy, giving you more time to enjoy this delicious meal.
7. Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Shrimp Alfredo is a quick 30-minute meal that feels fancy but is simple to make. The creamy sauce combines heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor.
You can use frozen cooked shrimp to make this dish even easier. Just thaw the shrimp before adding them to your pasta.
For a lighter version, try a one-skillet approach where the pasta cooks right in the pan with the sauce. This reduces cleanup time and creates a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Pre-made Alfredo sauce works well too. Many frozen dinner versions, like Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Alfredo, offer good flavor and a decent amount of shrimp for a quick lunch option.
8. Pesto Shrimp Skewers
Pesto shrimp skewers are a simple yet flavorful dish that can be ready in about 30 minutes. You only need a few ingredients to make this tasty meal.
Start with frozen shrimp that’s been thawed, peeled, and deveined. Coat them generously with basil pesto, which typically contains fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon.
Thread the coated shrimp onto skewers and grill them for just a few minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. The pesto creates a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the shrimp juicy.
Serve these skewers as a main dish with rice or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
9. Thai Shrimp Curry
Thai Shrimp Curry is a perfect way to transform frozen shrimp into a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes. This dish combines plump shrimp with bell peppers, onion, and sometimes pineapple for a sweet touch.
The magic happens in the sauce – a blend of coconut milk, Thai curry paste, ginger, and spices like turmeric and cumin. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less curry paste.
For the quickest version, sauté onions and garlic in coconut oil, add your spices and curry paste, then pour in coconut milk. Add your thawed shrimp and cook until pink. Serve over rice for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
10. Shrimp Fried Rice
Shrimp fried rice is a quick and satisfying frozen meal option. You can find it in the freezer section, with brands like Tai Pei offering portions for about $2.82 and 420 calories.
When prepared, good frozen shrimp fried rice should have soft rice, vegetables with a nice crunch, and flavorful shrimp. The dish typically includes white rice, shrimp, green onions, and sometimes egg and bean sprouts.
If you prefer homemade, you can make a better-than-takeout version in about 20 minutes using one skillet. Homemade versions are often healthier and less greasy than restaurant options.
11. Shrimp Tacos with Slaw
Shrimp tacos with slaw make a quick and flavorful meal using frozen shrimp. Simply thaw your shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then cook until pink.
While the shrimp cooks, prepare a simple cabbage slaw with a creamy lime sauce. Mix shredded cabbage with cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of mayonnaise or sour cream.
Warm your tortillas and build your tacos with the seasoned shrimp, crunchy slaw, and extra toppings like avocado or fresh cilantro. This meal comes together in under 25 minutes.
The contrast between the warm spicy shrimp and cool crunchy slaw creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
12. Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta
Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta is a quick and impressive dish that can be on your table in 30 minutes or less. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs complement the shrimp perfectly.
Simply cook your pasta according to package directions while you prepare the shrimp. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in butter for about 30 seconds before adding your frozen shrimp.
Cook the shrimp until pink, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Toss with the cooked pasta, fresh lemon juice, and chopped herbs like parsley. The result is an elegant yet simple meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.
13. New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp isn’t grilled at all, despite its name. It features shrimp simmered in a rich, buttery sauce with bold Cajun spices.
You can have this dish on your table in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights. The sauce combines lemon, butter, garlic, and Cajun seasonings for an authentic Louisiana flavor.
Frozen shrimp works perfectly for this recipe. Just thaw them first and consider saving the shells to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Don’t forget to serve with crusty French bread. You’ll want to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.
14. Shrimp Stir Fry
Shrimp stir fry is a perfect 30-minute meal that works wonderfully with frozen shrimp. You can cook this dish with either fresh or frozen vegetables, making it a versatile option for busy weeknights.
The dish typically includes shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper, cooked in olive oil. You can use a simple stir fry sauce to add flavor and bring everything together.
Many recipes suggest cooking the shrimp first, then setting them aside while you prepare the vegetables in the same pan. This method ensures the shrimp stays tender and doesn’t overcook.
For a complete meal, serve your shrimp stir fry over rice or noodles. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
15. Baked Shrimp Parmesan
Baked Shrimp Parmesan is a quick and satisfying dinner option that takes only about 20 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without much effort.
To make this dish, you’ll toss shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Some recipes also include parsley and lemon zest for extra flavor.
The shrimp are then arranged on a baking sheet and baked until pink and cooked through. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a flavorful crust that complements the tender shrimp perfectly.
Both adults and children typically enjoy this simple yet tasty dish. Serve it with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.
16. Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Shrimp and avocado salad is a refreshing low-carb dish that’s perfect for quick meals. You can make it in minutes using frozen shrimp that’s been thawed and cooked.
The base combines juicy shrimp with creamy avocado chunks. Add chopped celery and shallots for crunch and flavor complexity.
For dressing, you have options. Some recipes use a simple lime and olive oil mixture that brightens the flavors. Others incorporate a light mayonnaise base with Worcestershire and chili sauce for richness.
This salad works great as a light lunch or dinner. It’s especially appealing when you want something satisfying without heavy ingredients.
17. Spicy Szechuan Shrimp
Turn your frozen shrimp into a fiery feast with this Szechuan-inspired dish. This recipe brings together bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and the signature numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns.
Start by thawing your frozen shrimp completely. Then stir-fry them quickly with a sauce mixture of chili paste, soy sauce, and a touch of rice wine or vodka for depth.
The magic happens when you add plenty of aromatics – fresh ginger, minced garlic, and green onions give this dish its authentic character. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Serve your spicy Szechuan shrimp over steamed rice to balance the heat. It’s a quick weeknight meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors.
18. Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo
Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo is a flavorful one-pan meal that combines plump shrimp with orzo pasta. This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The recipe typically includes garlic-seared shrimp, orzo, and Mediterranean ingredients like olives, feta cheese, cucumber, and tomatoes. Fresh herbs such as dill add brightness to the dish.
You can make this as a warm skillet meal or serve it as a refreshing salad. Either way, the combination of tender shrimp and pasta creates a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
A simple garlic butter sauce ties everything together, creating a dish that’s both quick and impressive.
19. Shrimp Pad Thai
Shrimp Pad Thai combines tender shrimp with rice noodles in a sweet, savory, and tangy sauce. This popular Thai dish is easy to make at home and takes less than 30 minutes.
You’ll need rice noodles, shrimp, bean sprouts, green onions, eggs, and tofu for an authentic version. The signature sauce blends fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and tamarind paste.
For a healthier option, try using zucchini noodles instead of rice noodles. This substitution cuts carbs while maintaining the dish’s flavor profile.
Most ingredients are easily found at regular grocery stores, making this restaurant favorite accessible for home cooks.
20. Sweet and Sour Shrimp
Sweet and sour shrimp is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home using frozen shrimp. It combines juicy shrimp with a tangy honey sauce that’s both sweet and sour.
This delicious meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can pair the shrimp with colorful bell peppers, onions, carrots, and pineapple chunks for a complete meal.
For the sauce, mix plum sauce, ketchup, and soy sauce with a hint of spice. Cook your thawed shrimp in a hot wok or large pan until they turn pink, then add your sauce and vegetables.
Serve over rice for a quick and satisfying dinner that tastes like takeout but is healthier.
21. Herb Butter Shrimp
Herb butter shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish you can make even from frozen shrimp. The combination of herbs like parsley, basil, oregano, and chive creates a fragrant sauce that coats each shrimp perfectly.
You can prepare this dish in about 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Simply cook your shrimp in a skillet with garlic butter and your favorite herbs until pink and opaque.
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For added flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the pan while cooking or finishing with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Choosing Quality Frozen Shrimp
Selecting the right frozen shrimp can make or break your recipe. The best dishes start with high-quality ingredients, and knowing what to look for ensures you’ll get the most flavor and value for your money.
Identifying Freshness
Look for packages with clear ice crystals rather than yellow or white frost, which indicates freezer burn. The shrimp should appear firm with no black spots or discoloration.
Check the packaging date if available – newer is better. Smell the package before purchasing if possible. Even frozen shrimp shouldn’t have a strong “fishy” odor. This can signal deterioration.
Avoid packages with visible ice chunks inside, as this suggests the shrimp may have thawed and refrozen. Quality frozen shrimp will be individually quick frozen (IQF), allowing you to take just what you need.
The shells should appear intact with no signs of damage. Transparency in packaging helps you see the actual product before buying.
Understanding Sizes and Types
Shrimp sizes are indicated by count per pound:
- Extra Large: 21-25 per pound
- Large: 31-35 per pound
- Medium: 41-50 per pound
- Small: 51-60 per pound
Choose based on your recipe needs. Larger shrimp work well for grilling, while smaller ones are perfect for pasta dishes.
Consider processing levels: shell-on, peeled, deveined, or tail-on. Pre-peeled saves time but may sacrifice some flavor. Tail-on shrimp work well for appetizers and presentation.
White, pink, and brown shrimp have subtle flavor differences. White tends to be sweeter, while brown has a more pronounced taste. For most recipes, any variety works well.
Wild-caught typically offers better flavor than farm-raised but costs more. Check packaging for sustainable certification if environmental impact concerns you.
Thawing and Preparation Tips
Properly thawing and preparing frozen shrimp is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your recipes. Following the right methods ensures food safety while maintaining the shrimp’s quality.
Safe Thawing Methods
The refrigerator method is the safest way to thaw frozen shrimp. Place the frozen shrimp in a colander inside a bowl and leave it in the refrigerator overnight.
This slow thawing prevents bacterial growth. For a quicker option, place frozen shrimp in a colander under cold running water. Stir occasionally to ensure even thawing, which typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Never use hot water as it can start cooking the shrimp and create an uneven texture.
Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature, which can allow harmful bacteria to multiply. Don’t microwave frozen shrimp to thaw them, as this often partially cooks the edges while leaving the center frozen.
Essential Prep Steps
After thawing, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for proper browning when sautéing or grilling.
Remove the shells if your recipe calls for it, though keeping them on during cooking can add flavor. To devein shrimp, make a shallow cut along the back and remove the dark vein with the tip of a knife.
For even cooking, make sure all shrimp are similar in size. If they vary greatly, consider separating them into groups and adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Season shrimp just before cooking rather than in advance. Salt draws out moisture, which can make your shrimp tough and rubbery if left too long before cooking.
