When it comes to seafood, few options are as versatile or delicious as shrimp. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, there’s a shrimp recipe out there to suit your taste. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 mouthwatering shrimp recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Shrimp Fried Rice, to international inspirations like Cajun Shrimp and Grits and Shrimp Pad Thai, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, be sure to check out our recipe for Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce or our take on Bang Bang Shrimp.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple of seafood lovers everywhere, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic Cajun dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce, served over creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning blend, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve the shrimp mixture over the prepared grits. Top with grated cheddar cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry is a quick and flavorful way to prepare succulent shrimp with a hint of honey and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe serves 4.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon water.
5. Pour the honey mixture over the shrimp and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the bell peppers and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Add a tropical twist to traditional tacos with this sweet and savory shrimp dish, featuring a fresh mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp
This recipe combines the bright citrus flavor of lemon with the savory warmth of pepper to create a mouthwatering grilled shrimp dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Season with salt to taste.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this tropical twist on classic shrimp, coated in a crispy coconut mixture and served with a tangy sweet chili sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish, Shrimp Fried Rice is a simple and flavorful meal that combines cooked rice with succulent shrimp, vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the same pan; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed frozen vegetables and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1-2 eggs, depending on desired egginess, and scramble them into the other side of the pan.
6. Mix everything together, then add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Pasta
Add a kick to your pasta with this spicy shrimp dish that combines succulent seafood with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just set, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, bell peppers, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using), chicken broth, tomato paste, and oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet; toss with sauce to coat.
6. Serve shrimp over pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this shrimp and avocado combination is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Shrimp Étouffée
This classic Louisiana dish is a staple of Creole cuisine, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich and spicy tomato-based sauce. Serve over steamed rice for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and diced tomatoes, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve shrimp étouffée over steamed rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bang Bang Shrimp
Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this addictive Bang Bang Shrimp recipe! Crispy shrimp tossed in a spicy and sweet sauce will have you hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Bang Bang Sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Bang Bang Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Toss the fried shrimp with Bang Bang Sauce (see above).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
Get ready for a deliciously spicy twist on the classic Louisiana sandwich! This Shrimp Po’ Boy is packed with succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and creamy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook bacon slices in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy. Chop into small pieces.
3. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on the bottom half of each hoagie roll, followed by cooked shrimp, crispy bacon, and top with the remaining roll.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the potatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and flour. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers
These Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or main course, perfect for any occasion. With a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, succulent shrimp, and crunchy vegetables, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over the shrimp and vegetables.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Alfredo
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic shrimp alfredo recipe, featuring succulent shrimp in a velvety sauce served over fettuccine noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce by half, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Add cooked fettuccine noodles to the sauce and toss to combine.
8. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Ceviche
Experience the flavors of Latin America with this refreshing shrimp ceviche recipe. Perfect for a light and zesty appetizer or snack, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, lime juice, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
A creamy, cheesy twist on the classic Lowcountry dish, this casserole combines succulent shrimp with a rich grits base, topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions, then stir in milk, cheddar cheese, scallions, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked grits and shrimp in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp Pad Thai
Pad Thai, a classic Thai dish, is a stir-fry made with rice noodles, shrimp, and a sweet and sour sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In the same wok, add more oil if needed, then sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, and white pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked noodles, shrimp, and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with crisp broccoli, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and just cooked through.
4. Add the broccoli and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the shrimp and broccoli over cooked white rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms
A flavorful and savory appetizer or main course that combines succulent shrimp with earthy mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with a cooked shrimp, some garlic butter mixture, and a sprinkle of cheese.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these mouth-watering shrimp recipes! From classic garlic butter scampi to spicy Cajun grits and sweet coconut shrimp, we’ve got you covered for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos with mango salsa or grilled shrimp with lemon pepper, our list of 20 delicious shrimp recipes has something for everyone. From comfort food favorites like shrimp fried rice and chowder to international twists like Bang Bang shrimp and Pad Thai, there’s no shortage of flavor in this collection.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
