30 Shrimp Recipes

Explore 29 delicious shrimp recipes, featuring appetizers, rice and pasta dishes, and satisfying dinners that will leave you wanting more!

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On the hunt for some great shrimp recipes? You’re in luck! I’ve gathered together 30 different options that are just right for lunch or dinner. These dishes truly highlight the versatility of shrimp, whether you’re looking for a fast solution for a weeknight dinner or planning a special meal. Get set to discover a range of easy shrimp recipes to add a burst of flavor and fun into your cooking routine. With these tasty options at your fingertips, every meal can be a shrimp-tastic.

4 image collage of the best quick and easy shrimp recipes.
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Shrimp is one of my favorite proteins to cook with. Its delicate taste pairs well with a variety of flavors, making it an easy yet satisfying choice. Not to mention that when it comes to convenient and fuss-free meals, shrimp is great to have on hand. Want pasta, don’t feel like messing with chicken or ground beef? Throw some shrimp in it! Craving a lighter salad that is high in protein? Shrimp has got your back.

Why you should cook more with shrimp

  • Delicious and versatile. Shrimp is a versatile protein that complements a wide array of flavors and ingredients. From spicy to sweet, rustic to refined, there’s almost no culinary style that shrimp doesn’t fit into. This makes it an ideal ingredient to keep stocked in the freezer for nights you don’t know what to make.
  • Quick and easy to make. Shrimp is the king of quick-cooking protein! Unlike other meats that require a long cooking process, shrimp cooks up in minutes and is an excellent choice for meals in a hurry that never lack flavor!
  • Nutritious. Shrimp is a low-calorie and low-fat protein source, making it a nutritious addition to your meals. Shrimp is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, and has essential vitamins and minerals, including selenium, vitamin B12, and zinc.
  • Readily available anywhere. Most grocery stores and seafood markets have shrimp, whether it is fresh, frozen, or pre-cooked. Recipes with cooked shrimp are also usually pretty affordable, so there is no breaking the bank when you want to enjoy a delicious seafood recipe.

How to make perfectly cooked shrimp every time

  1. Make sure the shrimp is thawed. When cooking with frozen shrimp you want to make sure you let it thaw. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and keeps you from over and undercooking at the same time. Just pat them dry to remove any extra moisture.
  2. Prep as needed for your recipe. Peel and devein the shrimp if the recipe calls for it, or you can purchase them with this already done. Leave the tails on for presentation, or remove them for convenience.
  3. Season the shrimp. After drying the shrimp, coat them in seasoning as the recipe suggests. You can let them marinate in the seasoning blend to allow the shrimp to soak in all the delicious flavors before cooking.
  4. Select the cooking method. There are so many different ways to cook shrimp, such as on the grill, sautéing in a pan, baking in the oven, boiling, or even steaming on the stove. Choose the method that best suits your dinner recipes with shrimp.
  5. Watch the heat. Shrimp cooks incredibly fast, so it’s important to make sure the heat is moderate enough to cook the shrimp without burning and not too slow, where they may become rubbery.
  6. Be aware of cook time for shrimp. Depending on the size of the shrimp, it’s a general guideline that they take about 2-3 minutes per side for grilling and sautéing, up to 4 minutes when boiling or steaming shrimp, and approximately 8-10 minutes for baked shrimp at a high temperature (around 425°F)
  7. Watch for doneness. When it’s done, shrimp will turn a pink color and become opaque rather than translucent. Another good indicator is the shape; perfectly cooked shrimp tends to form a loose “C” shape, while overcooked shrimp curl into a tight “O”. Keeping a keen eye on these signs can ensure you get perfectly cooked shrimp every time.

Easy recipes with shrimp

Below, you’ll find a selection of easy recipes with shrimp. These dishes are straightforward, packed with flavor, and make the most of this versatile protein. Enjoy!

Shrimp appetizers

  • Shrimp Cocktail in Avocado Bowls – a unique appetizer idea! Prep with pre-cooked shrimp tossed in ginger cocktail sauce, then mix and spoon into avocado bowls when your guests arrive.
  • Shrimp Cocktail – There’s nothing like a classic, and this easy shrimp cocktail recipe is exactly that. Pair with a zesty cocktail sauce and serve as an appetizer at gatherings or an intimate dinner for two.
  • Avocado Shrimp Salsa – This shrimp salsa recipe is so bright & zesty! It makes the perfect appetizer or even main dish for parties. Serve with tortilla or pita chips, and enjoy!
  • Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp – These healthier, restaurant-quality coconut shrimp require minimal ingredients and less oil, making them a favorite air fryer recipe.
  • Shrimp Lettuce Wraps – Serve up these quick and delicious low-carb shrimp lettuce wraps as a healthy appetizer, main entree, or for lunch. Enjoy them with a spicy Thai peanut sauce for a light, refreshing, and tasty experience!
  • Avocado Shrimp Salad – Enjoy a delightful low-carb salad with shrimp, crafted with minimal ingredients and a tangy lime olive oil dressing that brings a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish!
  • Shrimp Caesar Salad – With cooked shrimp on a bed of lettuce, it’s a quick, protein-packed meal made with a lightened-up yogurt dressing. It’s perfect for any meal starter but also wholesome enough for lunch or dinner!
4 image collage of shrimp appetizers.

Recipes with shrimp and pasta

  • Arrabiata Shrimp Pasta – This spicy Italian recipe is made with a tomato-based sauce with chili peppers and tossed with plump, juicy shrimp.
  • Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli – Creamy, flavorful, and filling. Pan-seared garlicky shrimp adds protein, steamed broccoli adds fiber, and the creamy sauce perfectly ties it together.
  • Garlic Butter Shrimp Spaghetti – Try even more recipes with shrimp and pasta, like this delicious recipe that tosses shrimp in a savory garlic butter sauce with red pepper flakes and spaghetti. A family favorite dinner recipe with shrimp that’s ready in just 15 minutes!
  • Pesto Spaghetti with Shrimp – Grilled shrimp is served with zucchini noodles and spaghetti, all tossed in a flavorful kale almond pesto sauce for a delightful combination bursting with flavors!
  • Shrimp Orzo Salad – This vibrant shrimp orzo salad is a refreshing summer dish packed with cooked shrimp, orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a chilled lunch on the go!
  • Couscous with Shrimp – This easy and healthy shrimp recipe is a one-pot meal is bursting with deliciousness. From the tender couscous to the flavorful shrimp and zesty tomato mixture, each mouthful is both satisfying and nutritious!
4 image collage of shrimp pasta recipes.

Shrimp and Rice recipes

  • Shrimp Sushi Stack – Love sushi? This recipe is a twist on the California roll but uses plump shrimp in a creamy, spicy mayo sauce and is layered with cucumbers, avocado, and sticky sushi rice.
  • Lemon Herb Shrimp Rice Bowl – A perfect one-pan weeknight dinner that’s bursting with citrus and herby goodness. This shrimp bowl is a delightful family favorite with just a handful of ingredients. Packed with veggies and fresh flavors, it’s a meal worth repeating!
  • Shrimp & Broccoli Stir-Fry – This quick and easy shrimp dinner is ready in minutes. Cooked in a flavorful soy sauce mix and served over rice or noodles, it’s a well-balanced and healthy choice!
  • Shrimp Fried Rice – Forget ordering takeout! This healthier shrimp fried rice uses brown rice and vegetables for a hearty shrimp stir-fry for a delicious family meal ready in just 20 minutes!
  • Shrimp Fajita Bowls – Packed with vibrant and fresh ingredients, these protein and fiber-rich bowls are hearty and bursting with the best Mexican flavors.
  • Easy Shrimp and Rice – My go-to for busy weeknights.! The whole family will enjoy this one-pan shrimp recipe. It’s a quick and easy favorite with simple ingredients, most already in your fridge and pantry!
  • Red Coconut Curry Shrimp – This zingy shrimp curry with lime, cilantro, and red curry paste is creamy and delicious. The plump, tender shrimp make it even more delightful.
  • Honey Walnut Shrimp – This Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe offers a lighter twist on a classic dish. Enjoy a delicious flavor combination of crispy pan-seared shrimp paired with homemade candied walnuts!
4 image collage of shrimp recipes with rice.

Dinner recipes with shrimp

  • Lemon Garlic Shrimp – Made with fresh parsley and lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor, this pan-seared dish is a flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will love.
  • Easy Skillet Shrimp Fajitas – This recipe combines perfectly seasoned, juicy shrimp with bell peppers and onions for a Tex-Mex meal. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, and a side of refried beans!
  • Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi – This restaurant-quality shrimp recipe combines high-quality butter, garlic, red pepper flakes, plump shrimp, wilted spinach, and roasted spaghetti squash for a ridiculously flavorful dinner.
  • Sesame Shrimp with Broccoli – Shrimp is coated and fried to crispy perfection with panko breadcrumbs, delivering an irresistible crunch in every bite. Combine it with tender broccoli florets, and you’ll have an easy weeknight meal that beats any takeout!
  • Chili Lime Shrimp – Prepared with a zesty marinade featuring tangy lime juice, this dish is one of my favorite quick and easy recipes with shrimp that use simple ingredients but has a big flavor.
  • Grilled Shrimp Skewers – If you are planning a cookout, these Grilled Shrimp Skewers need to make an appearance! Marinated in a lemon and herb dressing, they take minutes to prep and are super quick to cook.
  • Shrimp Scampi with Zoodles – Enjoy a healthier twist on the classic Shrimp Scampi with this easy-to-make dish. By swapping traditional pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles), you can indulge in a lighter, low-carb meal without sacrificing flavor.
  • Grilled BBQ Shrimp – Marinated in a smoky seasoning blend, these skewered delights offer a crispy exterior, juicy interior, and explosive flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they can be cooked on the grill or stove for added flexibility.
4 image collage of dinner recipes.

HOW TO store raw and cooked shrimp

  • Refrigerate immediately. If you purchased fresh shrimp, it’s important to refrigerate them as quickly as possible. Place the shrimp in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Shrimp can easily take on the odors from other foods in the fridge, which can affect the shrimp’s flavor, so storing them properly is important.
  • Freeze if needed. If you purchase fresh shrimp and don’t plan on using it within a day or two, it may be best to freeze it until ready. Rinse the shrimp and dry them with paper towels before storing them in a freezer-safe bag. Once frozen, the shrimp can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Storing recipes with cooked shrimp. Allow the shrimp recipe to cool completely and transfer to an airtight container or bag. Most recipes can be stored for 3-4 days, but follow the storage guidelines included with each recipe for best results.

frequently asked questions

What goes with shrimp for dinner?

Shrimp can be paired with a variety of delicious side dishes for a satisfying dinner. Try it with rice, pasta, salad, grilled vegetables, quinoa or couscous, roasted potatoes, and so much more! Check out a full list of my side dishes to pair with your shrimp recipes!

What can I season my shrimp with?

There are so many delicious ways to season shrimp, such as garlic and herbs, lemon pepper seasoning, Cajun seasoning, bbq spice blend, chili and lime, Italian seasoning, teriyaki or soy sauce, and even taco seasoning. This list just scratches the surface of flavor possibilities!

Why does my shrimp have no flavor?

Shrimp may lack flavor due to various reasons. It could be because they were not adequately seasoned, not marinated to enhance their taste, of lower quality or freshness, overcooked, or not accompanied by flavorful sauces or seasonings.

How do you make shrimp more tender?

To make shrimp tender, cook them briefly using gentle methods like sautéing or grilling. Marinating in acidic ingredients, brining, and removing the shell can also enhance tenderness. You should also avoid overcrowding so as not to steam the shrimp while cooking.

4 image collage of different types of dinners using shrimp.

I hope this collection of shrimp recipes inspires you to discover new possibilities for quick and satisfying meals. With the right seasonings, cooking techniques, and complementary ingredients, you can create a wide range of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

full list of recipes

Check out the picture cards for all the recipes listed above. You can click on any of the recipe cards to take you directly to those recipes.

Plate with 4 avocado halves with shrimp cocktail inside each and lemon wedges on the side
Appetizer

Shrimp Cocktail in Avocado Bowls

Shrimp Cocktail in Avocado Bowls are easy to prepare and a huge hit at parties – making them a fun & delicious appetizer for the holidays!
 
8 minutes
5 from 30 votes
Shrimp cocktail served with the sauce over bed of ice with lemon wedges
Appetizer

Shrimp Cocktail

Learn how to make a classic shrimp cocktail quickly and easily for a delicious appetizer for the holidays; served with a tangy cocktail sauce
 
18 minutes
5 from 14 votes
Large serving bowl of Shrimp avocado salsa with hand taking out a bite on a tortilla chip.
Appetizer

Avocado Shrimp Salsa

This Avocado Shrimp Salsa is a bright & zesty recipe! It makes the perfect appetizer or even main dish for parties. Serve with tortilla or pita chips and enjoy!
 
15 minutes
4.9 from 41 votes
Air fryer coconut shrimp served with a sweet chili sauce
Appetizer

Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

This Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp recipe is like your favorite restaurant style version but only healthier because I skip the heavy oil and deep frying method
 
22 minutes
5 from 635 votes
Shrimp lettuce wraps on platter served with peanut sauce
Appetizer, Main Course

Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Ready to serve in less than 20 minutes, these shrimp lettuce wraps are served with a spicy peanut dipping sauce for a bite full of flavor.
 
17 minutes
5 from 102 votes
Shrimp avocado salad tossed and ready to serve
Salad

Shrimp Avocado Salad

This low-carb Shrimp Avocado Salad is made with only a few simple ingredients with a zesty lime olive oil dressing that adds a fresh flavor!
 
10 minutes
5 from 1772 votes
Two bowls of shrimp caesar salad with yogurt dressing on the side
Salad

Shrimp Caesar Salad

The flavor of this Shrimp Caesar Salad is amazing! It's an easy salad topped with baked croutons and a homemade greek yogurt caesar dressing!
 
20 minutes
5 from 128 votes
Arrabiata pasta with shrimp in a small pasta bowl
Main Course

Arrabiata Pasta with Shrimp

Pasta Arrabiata is a traditional Italian spicy tomato-based sauce pasta made with garlic, tomatoes and chili peppers, try it with shrimp!
 
25 minutes
5 from 97 votes
Broccoli shrimp alfredo.
Main Course

Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is an easy pasta recipe tossed in a flavorful creamy lightened up garlic alfredo sauce that's made with no cream
 
30 minutes
5 from 363 votes
Large skillet of garlic butter shrimp pasta with serving spoon and fork in skillet
Main Course

Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti

This Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti is an easy and quick dish for the weekday menu that comes to together in 15 minutes with buttery garlic taste!
 
25 minutes
5 from 2001 votes
Shrimp pesto pasta in a pot.
Entree

Shrimp Pesto Pasta

This shrimp pesto pasta is made with a simple and flavorful basil almond pesto sauce, tossed with spaghetti noodles, and served with shrimp.
 
30 minutes
5 from 11 votes
Large serving bowl of shrimp orzo salad with dill on the side
Salad

Shrimp Orzo Salad

Shrimp orzo salad is an easy refreshing summer recipe made with pasta, fresh vegetables and feta cheese – perfect for picnics and cookouts!
 
25 minutes
5 from 169 votes
Close up shot of the Mediterranean Couscous in large white serving bowl with chopped parsley and lemon wedges off to side.
Entree

Mediterranean Couscous

A quick and easy summer recipe, this Mediterranean Couscous dish is made with shrimp, tomatoes, feta, olives and capers – it’s fresh, healthy & irresistible
 
22 minutes
5 from 212 votes
Sushi shrimp stack made with spicy mayo shrimp, avocado, cucumbers and rice
Main Course

Sushi Stack

This shrimp sushi stack is a deconstructed stack of yum! If you're a fan of California rolls or sushi in general you're sure to love this easy sushi recipe!
 
15 minutes
5 from 161 votes
a close up of lemon herb shrimp stir fry
Main Course

Lemon Herb Shrimp and Rice Bowl

Try this one-pan Shrimp and Brown Rice Bowl recipe for an easy weeknight dinner! This shrimp bowl comes together quickly with a handful of ingredients!
 
50 minutes
5 from 44 votes
Shrimp and broccoli stir fry in bowls over brown rice
Main Course

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

Quick and easy to make, healthy and delicious, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry comes together in a matter of minutes with the most delicious sauce.
 
15 minutes
5 from 255 votes
Shrimp fried rice in a bowl
Main Course

Shrimp Fried Rice

This shrimp fried rice recipe is loaded with flavor and fresh veggies for a healthier alternative to take out. Ready to enjoy in 20 minutes!
 
20 minutes
5 from 121 votes
Close up shot of shrimp fajita bowl with sour cream and hot sauce
Main Course

Shrimp Fajita Bowl

This Mexican-inspired shrimp fajita bowl is fresh and flavorful! Enjoy stir-fried onions, peppers, and shrimp served over cilantro lime rice.
 
55 minutes
5 from 60 votes
One pan shrimp and rice topped with cilantro
Main Course

One Pan Shrimp and Rice

Quick and easy to make, this one pan shrimp and rice is ready to serve in around 30 minutes. Perfect to serve as an easy comforting weeknight family meal.
 
35 minutes
5 from 132 votes
Coconut shrimp curry in pot garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk on top, clinatro, and lime wedges.
Entree

Red Shrimp Coconut Curry

Thai-inspired red shrimp curry with coconut milk, red curry paste, fresh cilantro & lime. This shrimp curry is bright & bold – you won't want to stop eating it!
 
30 minutes
5 from 277 votes
Honey walnut shrimp lightened up recipe
Entree

Honey Walnut Shrimp

This lightened up version of Honey Walnut Shrimp is inspired by the Panda Express recipe. It's full of crisp pan-seared shrimp with homemade candied walnuts
 
20 minutes
5 from 115 votes
Shrimp in pan with lemon zest and squeezed lemon wedge, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Entree

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

This lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe is a one-pan seafood entrée that's ready in under 10 minutes and loaded with fresh flavors and the best buttery sauce.
 
10 minutes
5 from 121 votes
Shrimp Fajitas with Bell Peppers and Avocado Salsa is quick/easy weeknight meal you can whip up in one cast iron skillet
Main Course

Easy Skillet Shrimp Fajitas

This Easy Skillet Shrimp Fajitas recipe is a quick and easy meal you can whip up in one pan in under 20 minutes; includes a flavorful avocado tomato salsa!
 
20 minutes
5 from 28 votes
Spaghetti squash shrimp scampi finished product with crushed red pepper in small bowl
Entree

Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

The light and delicious texture of this Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is the perfect easy weeknight meal! Comfort food without the carbs!
 
55 minutes
5 from 162 votes
Sesame shrimp with broccoli and lemon wedges on skillet
Dinner, Entree

Sesame Shrimp with Broccoli

This Sesame Shrimp with broccoli is an easy one pan meal perfect for weeknights. It's a low carb quick dinner idea that you can make quickly!
 
20 minutes
4.8 from 29 votes
Final cooked cilantro and chili lime shrimp
Main Course

Chili Lime Shrimp

These delicious chili and lime shrimp are loaded with flavor and perfect for a quick and easy low carb meal. Made with simple ingredients and quick to cook.
 
40 minutes
5 from 291 votes
Grilled shrimp skewers on a white plate with grilled lemon slices
Appetizer, Main Course

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These grilled shrimp skewers are so quick and easy to make and wonderfully flavored with a lemon and herb marinade.
 
10 minutes
5 from 1225 votes
Healthy shrimp scampi made with half pasta and half zucchini topped with lemon slices
Main Course

Healthy Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Healthy Shrimp Scampi combines the classic flavors of the dish with simple swaps like using zoodles zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a lighter meal!
 
15 minutes
5 from 239 votes
Grilled BBQ shrimp skewers on a large oval platter garnished with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Entree, Main Dish

Grilled BBQ Shrimp

These Grilled BBQ Shrimp skewers are juicy, smoky, and fun on a stick! My homemade bbq seasoning makes for a crowd-pleasing grilled shrimp recipe.
 
34 minutes
5 from 4 votes

For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: Easy Avocado Recipes, No-bake Desserts, Grilling Recipes, and Oat Recipes.

If you found this recipe roundup for the Best Shrimp Recipes helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipes! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots, share it on Instagram so we can repost on Stories!

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