Shrimp So Good You’ll Wish You Made More

Shrimp is a popular seafood ingredient known for its quick cooking time and versatility. Many dishes use shrimp as a main protein source in meals that range from simple weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. This post presents a set of recipes that show practical ways to include shrimp in everyday cooking.

The recipes feature different techniques such as grilling, steaming, and stir-frying. They are explained with clear steps that work well for cooks at any experience level. You will find options that suit both busy evenings and special occasions.

Each recipe makes use of fresh ingredients and common spices to create meals that are nutritious and easy to prepare. The instructions are designed to help you achieve good results without spending too much time in the kitchen. We hope these ideas encourage you to add shrimp to your regular menu and explore new flavors in your meals.

Air Fryer Blackened Shrimp

Seasoned with a mix of paprika, garlic, and other spices, these shrimp are cooked quickly in the air fryer for a crisp exterior and a tender interior. The blackened coating offers a bold flavor without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the shrimp. A squeeze of lemon over the top finishes the dish nicely, making it perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Blackened Shrimp

Creamy Barbecue Shrimp

Shrimp are coated in a smooth, tangy barbecue sauce that incorporates a hint of cream for extra richness. The balance of smoky and mild flavors makes this dish a unique twist on a classic favorite. It comes together quickly, offering a convenient option for busy evenings and pairs well with rice or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Barbecue Shrimp

Kung Pao Shrimp

This dish mixes tender shrimp with a sauce that has a spicy kick, accented by garlic, ginger, and a touch of vinegar. Peanuts add a pleasant crunch to each bite, balancing the heat from the sauce. Served over steamed rice, it offers a quick, flavorful meal option for a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Shrimp

Browned Butter Honey Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp are pan-cooked in browned butter until the butter develops a nutty aroma, then finished with a drizzle of honey and garlic. The result is a warm sauce that lightly coats the shrimp without overpowering them. Serve this dish with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal that brings out the natural flavors of the seafood.
Get the Recipe: Browned Butter Honey Garlic Shrimp

Bloody Mary Shrimp

Inspired by the classic cocktail, these shrimp are simmered in a sauce made with tomatoes, spices, and a touch of heat. The robust tomato base complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp perfectly. This dish works well as an appetizer or a light main course, especially when garnished with celery or a sprinkle of pepper.
Get the Recipe: Bloody Mary Shrimp

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Each shrimp is wrapped in a thin slice of bacon that crisps up during cooking, adding a savory note to every bite. The bacon imparts a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the tender shrimp. This recipe can be prepared in the oven or air fryer, making it a versatile option for parties or quick snacks.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Dairy Free Shrimp Scampi

A twist on the classic, this shrimp scampi uses a plant-based alternative in place of butter while still delivering a rich garlic and olive oil sauce. The shrimp are lightly cooked in the sauce, absorbing the bright flavors of lemon and garlic. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a meal that meets dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

This inventive dish features a pizza base topped with garlic-infused shrimp and a light, lemony sauce reminiscent of a classic scampi. The shrimp are arranged carefully to ensure every slice carries a good balance of flavors. A light sprinkle of herbs on top brings the dish together, making it a fun twist on two favorite dishes.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Greek Shrimp Skillet

Shrimp are cooked in a skillet with olives, tomatoes, and a splash of lemon, accented by herbs typically found in Mediterranean recipes. The ingredients combine to create a dish with a bright and savory profile. This skillet meal is quick to prepare and pairs well with a side of rice or crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet

Peruvian Shrimp Ceviche

In this refreshing dish, shrimp are marinated in citrus juices until just cooked by the acidity, then mixed with red onions, cilantro, and a hint of chili. The fresh ingredients create a crisp flavor that works well served cold. It’s an ideal starter for warm days or a light meal when paired with a side of plantain chips.
Get the Recipe: Peruvian Shrimp Ceviche

Sweet & Spicy Mango Shrimp

Shrimp are paired with a sauce that blends the sweetness of mango with a mild heat, creating an interesting contrast in flavors. The sauce is lightly caramelized, adding depth to the shrimp without overpowering them. Serve this dish over rice to balance the sauce, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Mango Shrimp

Chimichurri Shrimp

Shrimp are tossed in a bright sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier preparations. The vibrant flavors of the sauce complement the seafood perfectly without masking its taste. This simple dish comes together quickly and works well as either an appetizer or a main course over a bed of greens.
Get the Recipe: Chimichurri Shrimp

Shrimp Alfredo with Asparagus

Tender shrimp and crisp asparagus are combined in a creamy sauce that coats pasta or rice for a complete meal. The sauce, enriched with garlic and a hint of lemon, brings a smooth texture to the dish without overwhelming the ingredients. This meal is both quick to prepare and a delicious way to include greens with seafood.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo with Asparagus

Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

This pasta dish features shrimp that have been sautéed with garlic and olive oil, then tossed with bucatini noodles for a hearty plate. A squeeze of lemon and a light drizzle of extra olive oil help balance the flavors. The dish is straightforward yet robust, making it a great option for a quick dinner on a busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp and noodles are combined with crisp vegetables in a savory sauce that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. The mix of textures from the tender shrimp, soft noodles, and crunchy vegetables makes each bite interesting. This one-pan dish is a convenient option for a weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp are marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and a mix of herbs, then grilled until lightly charred. The grilling process intensifies the flavors and provides a slight crispness to the exterior. These shrimp are excellent served alongside a fresh salad or over a bed of rice for a light, balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

General Tso Shrimp

A twist on a well-known favorite, this dish features shrimp coated in a sauce that blends a hint of sweetness with a mild kick of spice. The sauce clings to the shrimp, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Served over rice or noodles, this dish provides a quick way to enjoy familiar flavors with a seafood twist.
Get the Recipe: General Tso Shrimp

Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp

Coated in a blend of Cajun spices, these shrimp are cooked in the air fryer to create a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the insides tender. The spice mix offers a bold flavor profile that is both straightforward and delicious. They pair well with a simple side of rice or a green salad, making them a quick go-to meal option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

These shrimp are first air-fried to a crispy finish before being tossed in a creamy, mildly spicy sauce. The combination of the crunchy coating and smooth sauce provides an engaging contrast in each bite. Often served as an appetizer, they also work well as part of a larger meal when paired with a cool dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

This dish combines a creamy base of grits with well-seasoned shrimp in a warm, baked casserole. The ingredients meld together during baking, resulting in a comforting dish with layers of flavor. It’s an updated take on a Southern classic that is both hearty and straightforward, perfect for serving straight from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas

Tender pieces of steak and shrimp are arranged on a single sheet pan with bell peppers and onions, then roasted until the edges begin to char. The spices used bring out the natural flavors of both the meat and seafood, creating a balanced dish. Serve with warm tortillas and your preferred toppings for an easy, complete meal that minimizes cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas