Kick off your next dinner with something special! Steamed shrimp is a versatile, healthy choice that’s perfect for quick weeknight meals, elegant entertaining, or light summer feasts. Whether you’re craving classic garlic butter, zesty lemon-herb, or bold Asian-inspired flavors, we’ve gathered 22 delicious recipes to inspire your kitchen. Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this succulent seafood!
Lemon Garlic Steamed Shrimp
Sometimes you just need a quick, healthy meal that feels special without the fuss. This lemon garlic steamed shrimp is exactly that—it’s light, bright, and ready in minutes. You’ll love how the zesty lemon and savory garlic infuse every bite.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound of fresh, large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 tablespoons of rich extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves of aromatic garlic, minced
– 1 juicy lemon, zested and juiced
– 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt
– ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
– ¼ cup of dry white wine
Instructions
1. Pat the fresh, large shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they steam evenly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the rich extra virgin olive oil, aromatic minced garlic, and juice from the juicy lemon until well combined.
3. Season the shrimp with the coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, tossing gently to coat.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil mixture, letting it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for 2 minutes without moving them to get a light sear.
6. Pour in the dry white wine and immediately cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam.
7. Reduce the heat to medium and let the shrimp steam for 3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
8. Remove the lid and sprinkle the fresh parsley and lemon zest over the shrimp, stirring gently to combine.
Zesty and tender, these shrimp have a juicy bite with a burst of citrus from the lemon. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or with crusty bread to soak up the garlicky sauce—it’s a simple dish that always impresses.
Ginger and Soy Steamed Shrimp
Tired of the same old shrimp recipes? This ginger and soy steamed shrimp is a total game-changer—it’s light, flavorful, and comes together in a flash. You’ll love how the bright, zesty ginger pairs with the savory soy sauce for a dish that feels fancy but is seriously easy to pull off.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large, fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Pat the fresh shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam evenly and don’t become watery.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, finely minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a heatproof dish that fits inside your steamer basket.
4. Pour the soy-ginger mixture evenly over the shrimp, coating each piece thoroughly.
5. Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a pot fitted with a steamer basket over high heat.
6. Once boiling, carefully place the dish with the shrimp into the steamer basket and cover the pot tightly with a lid.
7. Steam the shrimp for exactly 6–8 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink throughout—check one by cutting into the thickest part to ensure no translucency remains.
8. Remove the dish from the steamer using oven mitts, as it will be hot.
9. Sprinkle the thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top just before serving.
Unbelievably tender, the shrimp soak up that gingery, umami-packed sauce, leaving them juicy with a subtle sweetness. Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to catch every last drop of the delicious broth, or toss it into a crisp salad for a light, protein-packed meal.
Coconut Curry Steamed Shrimp
Zesty and aromatic, this Coconut Curry Steamed Shrimp is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels special. You’ll love how the creamy coconut milk and warm curry spices steam the shrimp to tender perfection. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in no time.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
– 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add 2 tablespoons red curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release its fragrance.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger and 2 cloves finely minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until aromatic.
4. Pour in 1 can full-fat coconut milk, whisking to combine with the curry paste until smooth.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, then reduce heat to low.
6. Add 1 pound large raw shrimp in a single layer, spooning some sauce over them.
7. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and steam the shrimp for 4-5 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque.
8. Remove the lid and stir in 1 tablespoon fish sauce and 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice.
9. Turn off the heat and let the shrimp rest in the sauce for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
10. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro and 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions before serving.
Lusciously tender shrimp soak up that creamy, fragrant curry sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice to catch every drop of sauce, or with crusty bread for dipping—either way, it’s a flavor-packed meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Spicy Cajun Steamed Shrimp
Brace yourself for a flavor explosion that’s about to hit your kitchen. This Spicy Cajun Steamed Shrimp is the ultimate fuss-free feast, packing bold, zesty heat into every juicy bite. You’ll have a crowd-pleasing dinner ready in no time, perfect for a lively weeknight or a casual weekend get-together.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of large, fresh wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 1/4 cup of rich, golden unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of vibrant, freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of aromatic, high-quality Cajun seasoning blend
- 1 tablespoon of fragrant, finely minced fresh garlic
- 1 teaspoon of smoky, sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of fiery, coarsely ground cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup of crisp, low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of bright, freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the fresh wild-caught shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam properly and don’t become watery.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, melt the rich, golden unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s just foaming, about 2 minutes.
- Add the fragrant, finely minced fresh garlic to the skillet and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the crisp, low-sodium chicken broth and vibrant, freshly squeezed lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
- Sprinkle in the aromatic, high-quality Cajun seasoning blend, smoky, sweet paprika, and fiery, coarsely ground cayenne pepper, stirring well to combine all the spices into the liquid.
- Carefully arrange the patted-dry shrimp in a single layer in the skillet, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the flavorful broth. Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow even cooking; work in batches if your skillet is small.
- Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and let the shrimp steam over medium heat for exactly 4–5 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink throughout. Tip: Do not lift the lid during steaming to trap the heat and infuse the shrimp with maximum flavor.
- Once cooked, immediately remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the shrimp from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
- Transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving platter using a slotted spoon, then pour the remaining spicy butter sauce from the skillet over the top.
- Garnish generously with the bright, freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal note. Tip: For an extra kick, serve with extra lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over just before eating.
Perfectly tender and infused with a kick of heat, these shrimp boast a juicy texture that practically melts in your mouth. Pile them high over a bed of creamy grits or crusty French bread to soak up every last drop of that addictive, buttery Cajun sauce for a truly unforgettable meal.
Herb Butter Steamed Shrimp
Aren’t you craving something that feels fancy but comes together in minutes? This herb butter steamed shrimp is exactly that—succulent, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. You’ll love how the steam locks in all that juicy tenderness.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– ½ teaspoon finely ground sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– ¼ cup dry white wine (like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc)
Instructions
1. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam properly without becoming watery.
2. In a small bowl, combine the cubed unsalted butter, minced fresh garlic, freshly chopped parsley, freshly chopped dill, freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely ground sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Mix the herb butter ingredients thoroughly with a fork until well blended and slightly softened.
4. Place the dried shrimp in a single layer in a large skillet or sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Evenly distribute the herb butter mixture over the shrimp in the pan.
6. Pour the dry white wine into the pan around the shrimp, avoiding pouring it directly on top to prevent washing off the butter.
7. Cover the pan with the lid immediately to trap the steam.
8. Turn the heat to medium-high and steam the shrimp for exactly 3–4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque throughout—peek quickly if needed, but avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain steam.
9. Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the shrimp are cooked through to prevent overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
10. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving plate, leaving any excess liquid in the pan.
11. Spoon the remaining herb butter sauce from the pan over the shrimp for extra flavor.
12. Serve immediately while hot.
Unbelievably tender, these shrimp soak up the rich, garlicky herb butter for a burst of freshness in every bite. The texture is perfectly juicy without any chewiness, making them ideal for piling onto crusty bread or tossing with pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. Try them alongside a simple salad for a light, satisfying meal that feels effortlessly special.
Sesame and Honey Steamed Shrimp
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy appetizer, this sesame and honey steamed shrimp is a total game-changer. You’ll love how the sweet honey balances the nutty sesame, and it comes together in just minutes with minimal effort. Seriously, it’s so simple you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons raw honey
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon thinly sliced green onions
Instructions
1. Pat the large raw shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam properly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, raw honey, low-sodium soy sauce, finely minced fresh garlic, and freshly grated ginger until smooth.
3. Place the shrimp in a single layer in a heatproof dish that fits inside your steamer basket.
4. Pour the honey-sesame sauce evenly over the shrimp, coating each piece.
5. Bring 1 inch of water to a rolling boil in a pot fitted with a steamer basket.
6. Carefully set the dish with the shrimp into the steamer basket, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and steam for exactly 6–8 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and pink. Tip: Avoid overcrowding the dish for even cooking.
7. Remove the dish from the steamer using oven mitts, as it will be hot.
8. Immediately sprinkle the toasted white sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions over the shrimp. Tip: Toasting the sesame seeds in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes until golden enhances their nutty flavor.
9. Let the shrimp rest for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Reserve any leftover sauce from the dish to drizzle over rice or vegetables.
So tender and juicy, these shrimp have a delightful sticky-sweet glaze with a subtle savory kick from the garlic and ginger. Serve them over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce, or skewer them for an easy party appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Garlic Lime Cilantro Steamed Shrimp
Just imagine this: you’re craving something light, zesty, and packed with flavor, but you don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen. That’s where this vibrant shrimp dish comes in—it’s a total game-changer for busy weeknights or easy entertaining.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large, fresh raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
– 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 2 juicy limes, zested and juiced
– ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons rich extra virgin olive oil
– ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
1. Pat the fresh raw shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam nicely without getting watery.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the minced fresh garlic, zest and juice from the juicy limes, roughly chopped fresh cilantro leaves, rich extra virgin olive oil, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Add the dried shrimp to the bowl and toss gently until evenly coated with the marinade; let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
4. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into a large skillet or pan and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the skillet, cover tightly with a lid, and steam for exactly 3–4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
6. Tip: Avoid overcooking by checking one shrimp at the 3-minute mark—it should be firm yet springy to the touch.
7. Remove the lid and let any excess liquid reduce for about 30 seconds if needed, then immediately transfer the shrimp to a serving plate.
8. Tip: For extra zest, squeeze a little more fresh lime juice over the top right before serving.
9. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
10. Tip: Serve immediately while hot for the best texture, as shrimp can become rubbery if left sitting too long.
Absolutely tender and succulent, these shrimp burst with bright lime and aromatic garlic in every bite. The cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that makes it feel light yet satisfying—perfect piled over a bed of fluffy rice or tucked into warm tortillas for a quick taco night.
Thai Basil Steamed Shrimp
Aromatic and vibrant, this Thai basil steamed shrimp is the perfect quick dinner when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and the fragrant basil and spicy kick will have you coming back for more.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
– 2 tablespoons rich extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
– 1 fresh red chili pepper, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
– 2 tablespoons premium fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon granulated white sugar
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
1. Pat the large fresh shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam properly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the premium fish sauce, fresh lime juice, and granulated white sugar until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Heat the rich extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
4. Add the finely minced fresh garlic, finely grated fresh ginger, and thinly sliced fresh red chili pepper to the skillet, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. Arrange the dried shrimp in a single layer in the skillet, then cover it tightly with a lid.
7. Steam the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink throughout, checking once halfway through.
8. Remove the lid and pour the fish sauce mixture over the shrimp, tossing gently to coat.
9. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves until just wilted, about 30 seconds.
10. Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a serving dish immediately.
Juicy and tender, the shrimp soak up the savory-sweet sauce with a bright herbal finish from the basil. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice to catch every drop of that delicious broth, or toss it with noodles for a heartier meal—either way, it’s a burst of Thai flavor that feels restaurant-worthy at home.
Mediterranean Herb Steamed Shrimp
Bored of the same old shrimp recipes? Let’s change that up. This Mediterranean Herb Steamed Shrimp is a light, flavorful dish that comes together in a flash, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute appetizer when friends drop by. You’ll love how the fresh herbs and lemon make the shrimp taste so bright and summery.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup rich extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Pat the 1 pound of large raw shrimp completely dry with paper towels. (Tip: Dry shrimp steam better and get a nicer texture.)
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of rich extra virgin olive oil, 3 cloves of minced fresh garlic, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
3. Add the dried shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated in the herb mixture.
4. Pour the 1/4 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into a large skillet or pan and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. (Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.)
6. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and let the shrimp steam for exactly 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque throughout.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately sprinkle the cooked shrimp with the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. (Tip: Adding parsley off the heat keeps it bright and fresh.)
8. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter.
Enjoy these shrimp straight from the pan while they’re hot! They turn out incredibly tender and juicy, infused with the aromatic garlic and herbs. The hint of lemon and red pepper adds a perfect zesty kick. Serve them over a bed of couscous, toss them into a salad, or just pile them onto crusty bread to soak up all that delicious, herby cooking liquid.
Lemongrass and Chili Steamed Shrimp
Aren’t you craving something light yet packed with flavor? This lemongrass and chili steamed shrimp is exactly that—a quick, vibrant dish that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the fuss.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large, fresh raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks fresh lemongrass, trimmed and thinly sliced
– 2 red Thai chilies, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons high-quality fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons fragrant extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped for garnish
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh raw shrimp, thinly sliced lemongrass, finely chopped red Thai chilies, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Add the high-quality fish sauce, fresh lime juice, and granulated sugar to the bowl, then toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. Let it marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld—this step enhances the aroma without overcooking the shrimp later.
3. Pour the fragrant extra virgin olive oil into a large skillet or wok and heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the marinated shrimp mixture to the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded to promote even steaming; if needed, cook in batches.
5. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and steam the shrimp for 3–4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque throughout—check one by cutting into the thickest part to avoid rubbery texture.
6. Remove the lid and sprinkle the roughly chopped fresh cilantro and mint leaves over the shrimp, gently stirring to incorporate the herbs without breaking them apart.
7. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter immediately to prevent overcooking from residual heat.
Perfectly tender and infused with zesty lemongrass and a gentle chili kick, these shrimp offer a juicy bite that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Serve them over fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the aromatic juices, or toss them into a crisp salad for a light, vibrant meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Italian Seasoned Steamed Shrimp
Kick back and get ready for a super simple, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute gathering. Italian Seasoned Steamed Shrimp brings the vibrant, herby taste of Italy right to your table with minimal fuss and maximum taste. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
– 2 tablespoons rich extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fragrant dried Italian seasoning blend
– 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon finely ground black pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
– ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Pat the 1 pound of large raw shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure they steam nicely and don’t become watery.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of rich extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fragrant dried Italian seasoning blend, 3 cloves of finely minced fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of finely ground black pepper.
3. Add the dried shrimp to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
4. Pour 1 cup of water into a large pot or Dutch oven and place a steamer basket inside, ensuring the water level sits just below the basket.
5. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the steamer basket, making sure they aren’t crowded to allow steam to circulate evenly.
6. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and set it over high heat until the water comes to a rolling boil, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a steady steam and cook the shrimp for exactly 3-4 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink throughout—avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
8. Carefully remove the lid, using a towel to avoid steam burns, and transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving platter using tongs.
9. Squeeze the juice from 2 of the lemon wedges evenly over the hot shrimp for a bright, fresh acidity.
10. Sprinkle the ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh parsley over the top as a garnish.
Here’s the best part: these shrimp come out incredibly juicy and tender, with the garlic and herbs infusing every bite. The lemon adds a zesty punch that cuts through the richness beautifully. Try serving them over a bed of creamy polenta or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
Old Bay Steamed Shrimp
Brace yourself for the easiest, most flavorful shrimp you’ll ever make. This Old Bay Steamed Shrimp is a classic for a reason—it’s quick, packed with savory spice, and perfect for a casual gathering or a simple weeknight treat. You’ll love how the steam locks in all that juicy, briny flavor.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound of large, fresh wild-caught shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
– 1/4 cup of savory Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup of crisp, dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
– 1/4 cup of filtered water
– 2 tablespoons of rich unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice from a juicy lemon
– 2 cloves of aromatic garlic, finely minced
Instructions
1. In a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, combine the crisp, dry white wine, filtered water, savory Old Bay seasoning, rich unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic minced garlic.
2. Place the pot over high heat and bring the liquid to a rapid boil, stirring once to help the butter melt and the flavors combine.
3. Once boiling, carefully add the large, fresh wild-caught shrimp in a single layer to the pot. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the shrimp to ensure even cooking.
4. Immediately cover the pot with the lid to trap the steam, and reduce the heat to medium-high.
5. Let the shrimp steam for exactly 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink with a slight curl. Tip: Avoid overcooking by checking at 3 minutes—shrimp cook fast!
6. Turn off the heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving bowl, leaving the flavorful broth in the pot.
7. Optionally, pour a few spoonfuls of the hot broth over the shrimp to keep them moist. Tip: Reserve the extra broth for dipping or to drizzle over rice.
8. Serve the shrimp warm. They’re tender, succulent, and infused with that signature Old Bay kick. Try them with crusty bread to soak up the savory juices or toss them into a fresh salad for a light meal—either way, the bold, briny flavor shines through.
Tequila-Lime Steamed Shrimp
Haven’t you been craving something that feels like a beach vacation but is easy enough for a weeknight? This tequila-lime steamed shrimp is your answer—it’s bright, zesty, and comes together in a flash. You’ll love how the steam locks in all that fresh flavor.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup silver tequila
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Pat the 1 pound of large raw shrimp completely dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine the 1/4 cup silver tequila, 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter pieces, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Add the dried shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly. Tip: Let it marinate for 5 minutes while you prep your steamer—this allows the flavors to penetrate.
4. Pour 1 inch of water into a large pot and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
5. Place a steamer basket in the pot, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the basket.
6. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the steamer basket, pouring any remaining marinade over the top.
7. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and steam the shrimp for exactly 3–4 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Tip: Avoid overcooking by checking at 3 minutes—shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
8. Carefully remove the steamer basket from the pot using tongs or oven mitts.
9. Transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving platter and immediately sprinkle with the 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Tip: The residual heat will wilt the cilantro slightly, releasing its aroma.
10. Serve the shrimp hot, drizzling any accumulated juices from the platter over the top.
Nothing beats the tender, juicy texture of these shrimp, infused with that bold tequila-lime kick. The garlic and butter add a rich depth that makes every bite irresistible. Try serving them over a bed of cilantro-lime rice or with warm tortillas for a fun, hands-on meal that’s sure to impress.
Lemon Dill Steamed Shrimp
Zesty and light, this lemon dill steamed shrimp is your go-to for a quick, impressive meal. You’ll love how the bright citrus and fresh herbs make the shrimp pop with flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 pound of large, fresh raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons of rich extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 cup of water
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh raw shrimp, rich extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, coarse sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to coat all the shrimp evenly.
2. Tip: Let the shrimp marinate at room temperature for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors, but don’t overdo it to avoid toughness.
3. Pour 1/2 cup of water into a large pot or steamer basket and bring it to a boil over high heat.
4. Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the steamer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
5. Place the steamer basket over the boiling water, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and steam the shrimp for 3-4 minutes.
6. Tip: Check the shrimp after 3 minutes—they should turn pink and opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and carefully lift the steamer basket to drain any excess liquid.
8. Transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving plate, drizzling any remaining marinade from the bowl over the top for extra flavor.
9. Tip: Serve immediately while hot, as shrimp cools quickly and tastes best fresh from the steamer.
Firm yet tender, these shrimp boast a juicy texture with a vibrant burst of lemon and aromatic dill. Pair them with crusty bread to soak up the savory juices or toss into a salad for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Perfect for any occasion, these 22 steamed shrimp recipes offer easy, flavorful meals that will impress your family and guests. We hope you find a new favorite to add to your dinner rotation! Give one a try this week, then leave a comment telling us which recipe you loved most. Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest to help other home cooks discover these delicious ideas.
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.
