15 Easy Shrimp Recipes for Seafood Lovers

Shrimp is such a versatile and flavorful seafood option🦐, and it cooks up in no time. I’m talking about everything from classic garlic butter shrimp to spicy shrimp tacos and even creamy shrimp pasta.

These recipes are not only mouthwatering but also super easy to make, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a variety of shrimp recipes that are perfect for any occasion. We’ll cover all the essentials, including prep tips, cooking techniques, and some pro tips to make your dishes stand out.

So, if you’re ready to explore some irresistible shrimp recipes that will wow your friends and family, keep reading. Let’s make some magic in the kitchen together!

1. Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

This classic dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. Shrimp are sautéed in butter with garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for a simple yet satisfying dish. Serve it over rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley, and cook for another minute.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

What to serve with: Steamed rice or pasta.

What to drink with: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.

2. Spicy Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Calling all spice lovers! This vibrant dish features plump shrimp tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce with a touch of heat. The combination of creamy cheese and zesty chili flakes creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add cooked pasta and mix well.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

What to serve with: A side salad or garlic bread.

What to drink with: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

3. Honey Walnut Shrimp

A sweet and savory treat, honey walnut shrimp is a popular Chinese-American dish. Crispy battered shrimp are coated in a rich, creamy sauce flavored with honey, soy sauce, and ginger. Toasted walnuts add a delightful textural contrast.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup walnut halves
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp condensed milk
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 egg whites
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish
• Steamed rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup water and sugar to a boil. Add walnuts and cook for 2-3 minutes. Drain and place walnuts on a baking sheet to dry.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, and condensed milk. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Add cornstarch and stir to combine. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then dip in the batter.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Toss fried shrimp in the honey mayonnaise sauce and top with candied walnuts and green onions.
6. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

What to serve with: Steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

What to drink with: A cold glass of beer or iced tea.

4. Easy Shrimp Scampi

This light and elegant dish is perfect for a special occasion. Shrimp are sautéed in a garlicky white wine sauce with lemon juice and fresh herbs. Serve it over pasta for a satisfying main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice to the skillet, and bring to a simmer.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve shrimp and sauce over pasta, garnished with fresh parsley.

What to serve with: A green salad or garlic bread.

What to drink with: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

5. Easy Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

This stir-fry is a healthy and flavorful weeknight meal option. Tender shrimp and crisp broccoli are stir-fried with a savory sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch mixture. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Toss to coat and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve immediately over cooked rice.

What to serve with: Steamed rice or noodles.

What to drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

6. Shrimp Fried Rice

Who needs takeout when you can make this delicious shrimp fried rice at home? Fluffy rice is stir-fried with shrimp, vegetables, and a flavorful egg mixture. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for using leftover rice.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups cooked rice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion, and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Push the garlic and onion to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through.
4. Add cooked rice, peas, and carrots to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce, and mix well. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
7. Serve immediately.

What to serve with: Egg rolls or spring rolls.

What to drink with: Iced tea or a light beer.

7. Thai Shrimp Soup

Indulge in the fragrant flavors of Thailand with this easy shrimp soup. Aromatic broth is simmered with vegetables, lemongrass, and shrimp for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 3 lemongrass stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 kaffir lime leaves
• 3-4 Thai chilies, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tomato, diced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring chicken broth, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, coconut milk, mushrooms, and tomato. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and discard lemongrass and lime leaves.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

What to serve with: Jasmine rice.

What to drink with: Thai iced tea or a cold beer.

8. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp

This recipe is the epitome of simplicity. Shrimp are tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese before being roasted to golden perfection. It’s a fuss-free and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light meal or appetizer.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

What to serve with: Crusty bread or a side salad.

What to drink with: A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay.

9. Shrimp Cobb Salad

This hearty salad is packed with protein and flavor. Tender shrimp, crispy bacon bits, creamy avocado, and fresh vegetables are tossed in a tangy vinaigrette for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups mixed lettuce
• 1 avocado, diced
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook shrimp over medium heat until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine lettuce, avocado, bacon, tomatoes, eggs, and blue cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked shrimp to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.

What to serve with: Crusty bread or a light soup.

What to drink with: A chilled glass of rosé or iced tea.

10. Shrimp and Corn Chowder

This creamy and comforting chowder is perfect for a chilly day. Sweet corn, tender shrimp, and potatoes are simmered in a rich and flavorful broth for a heartwarming meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme, for garnish
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly add chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
4. Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in corn and heavy cream, and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh thyme and green onions.
8. Serve hot.

What to serve with: Crusty bread or a side salad.

What to drink with: A glass of Chardonnay or a light beer.

11. Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Turn your favorite bang bang shrimp into a creamy and delicious pasta dish. Juicy shrimp are coated in a spicy mayo sauce and served over a bed of pasta for a flavor-packed meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the mayonnaise mixture and cook until heated through.
6. Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, and toss to coat in the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

What to serve with: A green salad or garlic bread.

What to drink with: A glass of Riesling or a cold beer.

12. Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

These lettuce wraps are a fun and healthy way to enjoy shrimp. Shrimp are coated in a sticky sauce made with honey, garlic, chili sauce, and ginger, and then served in lettuce leaves for a satisfying and light meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
• 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour sauce over shrimp and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
5. Serve shrimp in lettuce leaves, garnished with green onions.

What to serve with: Steamed rice or a side salad.

What to drink with: A light beer or sparkling water.

13. Chimichurri Shrimp with Creamy Polenta

This elegant dish features succulent shrimp bathed in a vibrant chimichurri sauce. The shrimp are served over creamy polenta for a delightful and flavorful combination.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup polenta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth to make chimichurri sauce. Set aside.
2. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta and reduce heat to low. Cook until thickened, about 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
4. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve shrimp over creamy polenta, drizzled with chimichurri sauce.

What to serve with: Grilled vegetables or a side salad.

What to drink with: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine.

14. Pan-Seared Citrus Shrimp

This recipe is a celebration of fresh flavors. Shrimp are pan-seared with lemon and orange juice, creating a light and refreshing dish perfect for a summer meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Pour in orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve immediately.

What to serve with: Quinoa or a side salad.

What to drink with: A citrusy white wine, like Pinot Grigio.

15. Peanut Lime Shrimp Curry

This flavorful curry is a delicious way to warm up on a cold day. Shrimp are simmered in a creamy peanut sauce with lime juice, vegetables, and a touch of heat for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour in the peanut butter mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
6. Serve immediately over rice.

What to serve with: Jasmine rice or steamed vegetables.

What to drink with: A cold beer or a glass of Riesling.

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