Shrimp is a versatile seafood that can transform ordinary meals into delicious culinary experiences. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive party dishes, shrimp adapts to various cooking methods and flavor profiles while remaining quick to prepare.
These 21 best shrimp recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer classic preparations like scampi and grits or more adventurous options with global influences, you’ll find options that are ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules. Each recipe has been selected for its flavor, simplicity, and appeal to different tastes and dietary preferences.
1. Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet
Garlic butter shrimp is a quick and delicious meal you can prepare in under 20 minutes. The recipe combines juicy shrimp with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
To make this dish, you’ll sauté shrimp in a hot skillet until pink and tender. Then add plenty of minced garlic and butter to create a savory sauce. A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up.
You can serve your garlic butter shrimp over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It also pairs well with spinach or arugula. This versatile recipe works as both an impressive appetizer for guests or a satisfying main course.
2. Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Cajun Shrimp and Grits offers spicy, satisfying comfort food that you can prepare in about 30 minutes. This Southern classic combines creamy, buttery grits with Cajun-spiced shrimp for a flavorful meal.
The base consists of quick-cooking grits simmered with water, salt, butter, and cream. Many recipes incorporate sharp cheddar cheese for extra richness and flavor.
For the shrimp topping, you’ll want to have all ingredients ready before cooking. The shrimp only take a few minutes to sauté. The Cajun seasoning adds a perfect kick that complements the creamy grits.
You can customize this dish with additional ingredients to make it your own special creation.
3. Honey Garlic Shrimp Tacos
Honey garlic shrimp tacos blend sweet, savory, and spicy flavors perfectly. They’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
To make these tacos, coat shrimp in a mixture of honey, garlic, lime juice, and chili seasonings. The sweet honey balances the spicy elements while the lime adds freshness.
Serve your shrimp in corn tortillas with quick-pickled red cabbage or a garlic cilantro lime slaw. Add smashed avocado for creaminess and extra lime wedges on the side.
These tacos work well for casual Taco Tuesday gatherings or whenever you want something simple yet flavorful that will impress your guests.
4. Shrimp Scampi with Lemon
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian dish featuring plump shrimp in a buttery, garlicky sauce. The addition of lemon gives it a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness perfectly.
You can prepare this dish in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Simply sauté your shrimp with garlic, shallots, and olive oil, then add white wine and lemon zest for extra flavor.
Serve your shrimp scampi over pasta for a complete meal, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The combination of garlic butter and tangy lemon creates a mouth-watering dish that’s sure to impress your dinner guests.
5. Parmesan Crusted Shrimp
Parmesan crusted shrimp combines crispy texture with savory flavor for an impressive yet simple dish. You can prepare this crowd-pleaser in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The magic happens when shrimp gets coated in a mixture of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. This creates a deliciously crunchy exterior while the shrimp stays tender inside.
You can either bake or pan-fry this dish depending on your preference. Baking offers a lighter option, while pan-frying provides extra crispiness. The dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or a simple salad.
For best results, use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder for more authentic flavor.
6. Spicy Grilled Harissa Shrimp
Harissa shrimp offers a perfect blend of smoky and spicy flavors that will elevate your summer dining experience. This North African-inspired dish is quick to prepare yet delivers impressive results.
Start by marinating your shrimp in harissa paste mixed with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The harissa paste gives the shrimp a rich, complex heat that’s more flavorful than just spicy.
Grill the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred. The high heat caramelizes the harissa marinade, creating a delicious crust.
You can serve these spicy grilled harissa shrimp as an appetizer, in tacos, or over rice for a complete meal. They pair wonderfully with cooling sides like cucumber salad or yogurt sauce.
7. Shrimp Fried Rice
Shrimp fried rice is a quick and tasty dish that you can make in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for using leftover rice from your fridge.
The recipe includes peeled shrimp, cooked rice, green onions, eggs, and soy sauce. Many versions also add vegetables like peas and carrots.
To make it, you’ll need to cook the shrimp first, then scramble some eggs. Finally, stir-fry everything with rice and seasonings in one pan.
This protein-packed meal is easier to make than takeout versions. You can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand.
8. Coconut Curry Shrimp
Coconut Curry Shrimp is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender shrimp with rich, creamy coconut curry sauce. You can make this restaurant-quality dish at home in just 20-25 minutes.
The recipe typically features shrimp cooked in a flavorful red or yellow curry paste mixed with coconut milk. Many versions include bell peppers and vegetables like bok choy for added texture and nutrition.
Serve your curry over rice to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that will satisfy your craving for Thai-inspired cuisine.
9. Shrimp Etouffee
Shrimp Etouffee is a classic New Orleans dish that brings big flavor to your dinner table. This Cajun favorite features juicy shrimp simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce.
The dish starts with a butter base where the “holy trinity” of vegetables—onion, celery, and green pepper—are sautéed until soft. The sauce gets its bold taste from Cajun seasonings and a thick roux.
When making Shrimp Etouffee at home, cook your shrimp until just pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
Serve your Etouffee over rice to soak up the delicious sauce. This restaurant-worthy dish is actually simple enough to make in your own kitchen.
10. Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp combines crispy fried shrimp with a creamy, sweet and spicy sauce. The sauce typically mixes mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for that perfect kick.
You can make this popular dish at home in just 30 minutes. Some recipes include a touch of maple syrup or honey to balance the heat.
This dish works well as an appetizer or main course. Try serving your Bang Bang Shrimp in a bowl with rice for a complete meal.
The contrast between the crunchy shrimp exterior and the smooth, flavorful sauce makes this dish irresistibly addictive.
11. Shrimp Ceviche
Shrimp ceviche is a refreshing dish where shrimp is “cooked” in citrus juices or briefly poached before marinating. You can make it with either raw or cooked shrimp, depending on your preference.
For raw shrimp, marinate in lime juice for about 1.5 hours until they turn pink and opaque. If using cooked shrimp, 15 minutes of marinating is enough to infuse the flavors.
Combine your marinated shrimp with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Adding ripe avocado brings a creamy texture to the dish.
Serve your ceviche with tortilla chips for dipping or use it as a filling for tacos. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something cool and zesty.
12. New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
Despite its name, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp isn’t grilled or covered in barbecue sauce. This dish features shrimp simmered in a rich, buttery sauce flavored with lemon, garlic, and Cajun spices.
You can prepare this impressive meal in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The sauce typically includes butter, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil.
Some recipes add beer to the butter bath for extra flavor. For the best results, use large shrimp with the shells on to trap all that delicious sauce. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.
13. Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Lemon herb grilled shrimp skewers are a quick and flavorful dish perfect for summer cookouts. The marinade combines fresh garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs that infuse the shrimp with bright flavors.
To prepare this dish, peel and devein about 1 pound of large shrimp. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs in a bowl, then add the shrimp and marinate for about 20 minutes.
Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill until they turn pink and slightly caramelized. The cooking time is brief, usually just 2-3 minutes per side.
These skewers can be served as an appetizer or main course with a lemon herb sauce for extra zest.
14. Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp combines succulent shrimp with rich, Mediterranean flavors in one delicious dish. You can prepare this meal in about 15-30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The dish features shrimp sautéed and nestled in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and garlic. Some recipes also include artichokes and basil for extra flavor.
This recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free, while being high in protein. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the decadent sauce.
For a complete meal in one pan, this Tuscan-inspired shrimp dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
15. Thai Basil Shrimp Stir-Fry
Thai Basil Shrimp Stir-Fry brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen in just minutes. This dish combines succulent shrimp with aromatic Thai basil for a quick weeknight meal.
You’ll need shrimp, Thai basil leaves, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a simple sauce made with soy sauce and dark soy sauce. The entire dish comes together quickly in a wok or large pan.
The anise-like flavor of Thai basil pairs perfectly with the sweetness of shrimp. You can adjust the spice level by adding fresh chilies to your preference.
This stir-fry works well served over rice or noodles for a complete meal. It’s an excellent option when you need dinner on the table in under 15 minutes.
16. Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Garlic shrimp pasta combines succulent shrimp with al dente pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce. This elegant dish looks impressive but is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
The creamy version features a buttery garlic parmesan sauce that coats each piece of pasta and shrimp. For the best flavor, sear your shrimp until just pink and be generous with the garlic.
A touch of lemon brightens the dish and balances the richness. You can use any pasta shape you prefer, though linguine and fettuccine work particularly well to hold the sauce.
This versatile recipe can be dressed up for company or kept simple for a satisfying family meal.
17. Szechuan Shrimp
Szechuan shrimp delivers a bold, spicy kick that will wake up your taste buds. This Chinese dish features juicy shrimp coated in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, ginger, and the distinctive numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns.
You can easily make this dish at home with just a few key ingredients. The combination of chili oil, garlic, and ginger creates an intense flavor profile that perfectly complements the shrimp.
For the best results, cook your shrimp quickly to keep them tender and juicy. Serve your Szechuan shrimp over steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences by adding more or less chili paste.
18. Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Shrimp and avocado salad is a fresh, low-carb dish that combines juicy shrimp with creamy avocados. It’s simple to make but full of flavor.
You only need a few basic ingredients to prepare this Mediterranean-style salad. Cooked shrimp, ripe avocado cubes, and fresh vegetables form the base of this dish.
The dressing typically includes olive oil, lime juice, and seasonings that complement the seafood. Some recipes add mayo for creaminess, while others keep it lighter with just citrus and oil.
You can serve this as a light lunch, dinner, or side dish. It works well year-round but is especially refreshing during warmer months.
19. Garlic Shrimp Pizza
Garlic shrimp pizza combines savory seafood with the classic comfort of pizza. It’s a delicious twist that brings together the best of both worlds.
To make this pizza, start by roasting olive oil with minced garlic. Then add butter and shrimp, cooking until just pink. Frozen shrimp works fine for this recipe.
For the sauce, blend olive oil, garlic, red chile flakes, and fresh basil. Spread this mixture on your pizza dough before adding the cooked shrimp.
Top with your favorite cheese and bake until golden brown. A drizzle of spicy mayo and fresh cilantro adds a perfect finishing touch to this flavorful dish.
20. Shrimp and Chorizo Paella
Shrimp and Chorizo Paella combines seafood and smoky sausage in one colorful dish. This Spanish classic features plump shrimp and flavorful chorizo mixed with saffron-infused rice.
You’ll start by cooking sliced chorizo until its fat begins to render. Then add garlic and sauté until fragrant before incorporating saffron, rice, and broth.
For a complete meal, you can include chicken thighs along with the shrimp and chorizo. The dish requires about 1/3 cup olive oil, chopped onion, and several garlic cloves.
Cook the paella in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Season your shrimp properly and cook them for just 2-3 minutes to keep them tender.
21. Shrimp Quesadillas
Shrimp quesadillas combine spicy shrimp with melted cheese in a crispy tortilla for a delicious meal. The filling typically includes sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
You can customize your quesadillas by adding ingredients like baby spinach for extra nutrition or jalapeños for more heat. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors.
For the best texture, cook your quesadillas until the tortillas are golden and crispy. You can serve them with toppings like mango sauce, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a complete meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Understanding Shrimp Types
Choosing the right type of shrimp is crucial for making your recipes taste their best. The source, freshness, and variety of shrimp all affect flavor, texture, and cooking time.
Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised
Wild-caught shrimp grow naturally in oceans and waterways. They typically have a stronger flavor and firmer texture than farm-raised options. Their diet of natural marine organisms gives them a distinct “oceany” taste that many chefs prefer.
Farm-raised shrimp come from controlled environments where they’re fed specific diets. These shrimp make up about 55% of the shrimp consumed worldwide. They often have a milder flavor and softer texture.
When shopping, you’ll find different varieties like white shrimp, brown shrimp, and pink shrimp. Each has slight differences in taste and texture:
- White shrimp: Sweet flavor, tender texture
- Brown shrimp: Stronger flavor, firm texture
- Pink shrimp: Mild, sweet taste
Selecting Fresh Shrimp
Fresh shrimp should smell clean like the ocean, not fishy or ammonia-like. The shells should appear shiny and cling tightly to the meat.
Look for clear eyes and firm bodies that spring back when touched. Avoid shrimp with black spots or yellowing shells, as these indicate age or improper handling.
Size matters in recipes. Shrimp are sold by count per pound:
| Size Label | Count per Pound |
|---|---|
| Colossal | 10-15 |
| Jumbo | 16-20 |
| Large | 31-35 |
| Medium | 41-50 |
| Small | 51-60 |
For most recipes, medium to large shrimp work well. Jumbo or colossal sizes are best for grilling or as statement pieces in dishes.
Cooking Techniques for Shrimp
Cooking shrimp properly is essential for bringing out their sweet flavor and achieving the perfect texture. The cooking method you choose can significantly impact the final result, with each technique offering unique benefits.
Grilling Shrimp to Perfection
Grilling adds a smoky flavor to shrimp that’s hard to achieve with other cooking methods. For best results, use large or jumbo shrimp, as they’re easier to manage on the grill.
Quick grilling tips:
- Thread shrimp onto skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates
- Brush with olive oil and seasonings before grilling
- Cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side
- Look for shrimp to turn pink and slightly opaque
Don’t overcook your shrimp on the grill. They’re done when they form a “C” shape. If they curl into an “O” shape, they’re overcooked and might become rubbery.
Sautéing for Flavor
Sautéing shrimp is quick and allows flavors to develop beautifully. This method works well for creating sauces that complement the shrimp.
Perfect sautéing process:
- Heat oil or butter in a heavy skillet until very hot
- Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer
- Cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque
For extra flavor, add garlic or herbs to the oil before adding shrimp. After removing the shrimp, you can deglaze the pan with white wine or broth to create a delicious sauce.
Pat your shrimp dry before sautéing for better browning. Some chefs recommend salting shrimp 15 minutes before cooking to help them retain moisture when cooked.
