20 Shrimp Dinner Ideas for Quick and Tasty Meals

Hey there, seafood lovers! 🦐 If you’re on the hunt for delicious dinner ideas that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place.

Shrimp is a fantastic ingredient that’s not only super versatile but also cooks in a snap, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or when you just want to impress your family and friends with minimal effort.

Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, we’ve got a variety of shrimp recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into some mouthwatering shrimp dishes that will make your dinner time a breeze!

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Imagine a warm evening, and you’re craving something indulgent yet light. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is the perfect dish, combining succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, all brought to life with a splash of lemon and a hint of parsley. It’s quick, elegant, and bound to make your taste buds dance with joy.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Toss in fresh parsley and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.

Serve with: A light green salad and garlic bread.

Drink with: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

2. Spicy Cilantro Lime Shrimp

When you need a burst of fresh, zesty flavors with a kick, Spicy Cilantro Lime Shrimp is your go-to. This dish combines the tanginess of lime with the boldness of cilantro and the heat of chili, creating a vibrant and refreshing meal perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 limes, juiced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate for 10-15 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the shrimp.
4. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Garnish with additional cilantro and sliced jalapeño if desired.

Serve with: Rice or quinoa and a side of avocado slices.

Drink with: A cold beer or a margarita.

3. Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

For your next barbecue or casual dinner, these Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers will be a crowd-pleaser. The shrimp are marinated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, then grilled to perfection, creating a delightful caramelized exterior.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp and marinate for 15-30 minutes.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill shrimp skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Serve with: Grilled vegetables or a light salad.

Drink with: A chilled glass of rosé or a refreshing iced tea.

4. Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion of spice and comfort. The bold flavors of Cajun seasoning blend seamlessly with a rich, creamy sauce, enveloping tender shrimp and al dente pasta. It’s a dish that’s both indulgent and full of character.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• Cooked pasta

Instructions:

1. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until tender.
5. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmering until thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Add cooked pasta and shrimp, tossing to combine.

Serve with: Garlic bread and a simple green salad.

Drink with: A glass of Chardonnay or a light lager.

5. Blackened Shrimp Po’Boys

Bring the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen with Blackened Shrimp Po’Boys. These sandwiches feature spicy, blackened shrimp nestled in a crusty baguette, topped with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy remoulade sauce. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 baguettes, split
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp pickle relish
• 1 tbsp hot sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Season shrimp with blackening seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook shrimp until blackened and pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Mix mayonnaise, pickle relish, hot sauce, and lemon juice to make remoulade sauce.
5. Assemble sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, shrimp, and remoulade sauce.

Serve with: Sweet potato fries or a side of coleslaw.

Drink with: A cold beer or an iced tea.

6. Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch. This dish is a delightful mix of tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies, all stir-fried in a savory soy-based sauce. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to satisfy your cravings.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, then set aside.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the wok and cook until tender.
5. Push vegetables to the side and scramble the eggs in the same wok.
6. Add cooked rice, shrimp, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, stirring to combine.
7. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Serve with: Spring rolls or egg drop soup.

Drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

7. Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut Curry Shrimp is a luscious and aromatic dish that transports you straight to the tropics. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with the curry spices and succulent shrimp, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exotic.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add bell pepper and shrimp, cooking until shrimp are pink and vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in fish sauce and lime juice.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve with: Jasmine rice or naan bread.

Drink with: A crisp Riesling or coconut water.

8. Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits is a Southern classic that’s rich, comforting, and utterly satisfying. This dish features creamy, buttery grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp and a savory sauce, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a hearty brunch.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Cook grits in water according to package instructions.
2. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
3. In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic in the bacon fat.
5. Add shrimp, cooking until pink.
6. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, simmering until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in hot sauce and crispy bacon.
8. Serve shrimp mixture over creamy grits.

Serve with: Collard greens or a side salad.

Drink with: Sweet tea or a light beer.

9. Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Shrimp Scampi Pizza is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. This pizza features a garlicky, buttery shrimp topping on a crispy crust, with a hint of lemon and fresh herbs, creating a unique and delicious meal that’s perfect for pizza night.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil, for brushing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp, lemon zest, and juice, cooking until shrimp are pink.
5. Brush pizza dough with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Spread shrimp mixture evenly over the dough.
7. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve with: Caesar salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Drink with: A glass of Pinot Grigio or a light beer.

10. Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp Pad Thai is a popular Thai street food that’s both flavorful and easy to make at home. This dish combines tender shrimp with rice noodles, crunchy peanuts, and a tangy sauce, creating a meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz rice noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 3 tbsp tamarind paste
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Push garlic to the side and scramble the eggs in the same wok.
5. Add shrimp, cooking until pink.
6. Stir in fish sauce, tamarind paste, and brown sugar until well combined.
7. Toss in cooked noodles, bean sprouts, and green onions, mixing thoroughly.
8. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges before serving.

Serve with: Thai cucumber salad or spring rolls.

Drink with: Thai iced tea or a cold beer.

11. One-Pan Shrimp Fajitas

This recipe is a great way to get a healthy and flavorful meal on the table in no time. Shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and your favorite fajita toppings are all cooked together on one pan for an easy cleanup.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tortillas, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss shrimp, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil and spices.
3. Spread everything out in an even layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until shrimp are cooked and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings (sour cream, guacamole, salsa).

Serve with: Black beans and rice.

Drink with: A margarita or a cold beer.

12. Shrimp Étouffée

Shrimp Étouffée is a classic Creole dish that’s rich, flavorful, and comforting. The shrimp are simmered in a savory, spicy sauce made with a roux, vegetables, and spices, served over fluffy white rice. It’s a taste of New Orleans in your own kitchen.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a deep golden brown.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic, cooking until tender.
4. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and hot sauce.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve over cooked white rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve with: French bread or cornbread.

Drink with: A cold beer or a glass of iced tea.

13. Shrimp and Mango Salad

Shrimp and Mango Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a summer dinner. The sweet mango pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp, all tossed in a tangy lime dressing with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs. It’s a burst of sunshine on a plate.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 mangos, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook shrimp over medium heat until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mango, bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked shrimp to the salad and toss with the lime dressing.
5. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Tortilla chips or crusty bread.

Drink with: A chilled white wine or a sparkling water.

14. Baked Shrimp with Lemon and Herbs

Baked Shrimp with Lemon and Herbs is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The shrimp are baked in a delicious lemon-herb butter, resulting in a light, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s ready in no time.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange shrimp in a baking dish and pour the butter mixture over them.
4. Top with lemon slices and pour in white wine if using.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Serve immediately.

Serve with: Steamed vegetables or a side of rice.

Drink with: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.

15. Shrimp and Avocado Toast

Shrimp and Avocado Toast is a trendy and delicious dish that’s perfect for brunch or a light meal. The creamy avocado spread pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp, all served on a toasted slice of bread. It’s healthy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 avocados
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices of bread, toasted
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook shrimp over medium heat until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. In a bowl, mash avocados with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread avocado mixture on toasted bread slices.
4. Top with cooked shrimp.
5. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve with: A side salad or fresh fruit.

Drink with: A mimosa or a glass of iced tea.

16. Shrimp Spring Rolls

Shrimp Spring Rolls are a fresh, light, and healthy appetizer or meal. These rolls are filled with tender shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in delicate rice paper and served with a tangy dipping sauce. They’re refreshing and perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, cooked
• 1 package rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, fill with warm water and soak one rice paper wrapper at a time until soft.
2. Place the softened wrapper on a flat surface.
3. In the center, layer lettuce, carrots, cucumber, shrimp, mint, and cilantro.
4. Fold the sides over and roll tightly.
5. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and lime juice for the dipping sauce.
6. Serve spring rolls with the dipping sauce.

Serve with: Extra dipping sauce or a side of edamame.

Drink with: Green tea or a light beer.

17. Shrimp Burgers

For a fun twist on the classic burger, try making shrimp burgers. Shrimp are seasoned and formed into patties, then cooked on the grill or in a pan. Serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Burger buns, toasted
• Toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, pulse shrimp until finely chopped.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Form mixture into patties.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

Serve with: Sweet potato fries or a side salad.

Drink with: A cold beer or a lemonade.

18. Shrimp Ceviche

Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing and zesty dish perfect for hot summer days. The shrimp are marinated in lime juice and mixed with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and avocado, creating a bright and flavorful appetizer or light meal that’s healthy and delicious.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp and lime juice. Let sit for 15-20 minutes until shrimp are opaque.
2. Add tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, avocado, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well and serve immediately.

Serve with: Tortilla chips or crispy plantains.

Drink with: A cold beer or a refreshing soda.

19. Shrimp and Corn Chowder

This creamy and flavorful chowder is packed with shrimp, corn, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold winter night.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 potatoes, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, cook bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic in bacon fat until tender.
3. Add potatoes, corn, chicken broth, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and shrimp, cooking until shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with crispy bacon and fresh chives before serving.

Serve with: Crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Drink with: A glass of Chardonnay or a light beer.

20. Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa

The shrimp are grilled to perfection and served with a fresh, tangy pineapple salsa that adds a burst of tropical flavor. It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or a light dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pineapple, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill shrimp for 3-4 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Serve grilled shrimp with pineapple salsa.

Serve with: Coconut rice or a mixed greens salad.

Drink with: A tropical cocktail or a refreshing soda.

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