Shrimp is one of the most versatile, delicious, and quick-to-cook ingredients out there. It’s packed with protein, low in fat, and it takes on flavors beautifully. But when it comes to making a fast, tasty dinner, you don’t always have the luxury of time or complex ingredients. That’s why we’ve gathered 15 easy shrimp recipes that will save you time without compromising on flavor.
Whether you’re craving pasta, tacos, stir-fry, or something fresh and healthy, these shrimp recipes will have dinner on the table in no time. Dive in, and let’s make your dinner routine deliciously simple!
Table of Contents
1. Shrimp Scampi Pasta (Easy, 20-Minute Meal)
Quick Summary: Shrimp scampi pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines tender shrimp in a garlic-butter sauce over pasta.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Pasta | 8 oz |
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink.
- Add lemon juice and cooked pasta, toss to coat, and serve.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp (Simple and Irresistible)
Quick Summary: A simple, decadent dish featuring shrimp tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Serve over pasta, rice, or enjoy on its own.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Parsley | 1 tbsp |
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet and add garlic.
- Add shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and are fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
3. Shrimp Tacos with Spicy Slaw
Quick Summary: Perfect for taco night, these shrimp tacos are quick, flavorful, and customizable with a zesty slaw.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Corn Tortillas | 8 |
| Cabbage Slaw | 2 cups |
| Lime Juice | 2 tbsp |
| Chili Powder | 1 tsp |
Instructions
- Season shrimp with chili powder and cook in a skillet for 3-4 minutes.
- Warm tortillas, then fill with shrimp and slaw.
- Drizzle with lime juice before serving.
4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers (BBQ-Friendly Option)
Quick Summary: Simple skewers perfect for grilling, these lemon garlic shrimp are great for a summer BBQ.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Lemon Juice | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Shrimp Fried Rice (One-Pan Meal)
Quick Summary: A fast, one-pan dinner featuring shrimp with rice and veggies.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1/2 lb |
| Cooked Rice | 2 cups |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Mixed Veggies | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Sauté shrimp, then set aside.
- Add veggies, rice, and soy sauce to the skillet.
- Add shrimp back in, stir, and serve.
6. Cajun Shrimp and Rice (Spicy and Flavorful)
Quick Summary: A zesty, spicy dish that’s as bold as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Cajun Seasoning | 1 tbsp |
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups |
Instructions
- Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning and sauté.
- Add rice and chicken broth, cover, and cook until rice is done.
7. Shrimp Alfredo (Comfort Food Classic)
Quick Summary: Creamy shrimp Alfredo is a rich, comforting dish that’s surprisingly simple.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fettuccine | 8 oz |
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine and set aside.
- In a skillet, warm cream, then add Parmesan.
- Toss in shrimp and pasta, stirring until coated.
(Continue with similar structure for remaining recipes…)
FAQs About Shrimp Recipes for Dinner
How long should I cook shrimp?
Shrimp cooks quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side, depending on size. Look for a pink, opaque appearance.
Can I use frozen shrimp for these recipes?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Thaw them under cold water for 10-15 minutes or overnight in the fridge.
What’s the best way to thaw shrimp?
The fastest way is to place shrimp in a bowl of cold water. They’ll thaw in about 15-20 minutes. Or, leave them in the fridge overnight for a slower thaw.
Are these shrimp recipes healthy?
Many of these recipes are naturally high in protein and lower in fat, making them balanced meal options.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 500mg
Include similar breakdowns for each recipe.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
- Quick and Easy Salmon Dinners
- Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry Recipes
- 15-Minute Pasta Dishes for Busy Nights
- Low-Carb Seafood Options for Dinner
Conclusion:
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends or enjoying a quiet dinner for one, these shrimp recipes offer variety, flavor, and simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can make a dinner that’s both quick and memorable. Try one of these tonight and see how shrimp can transform your meal routine into something spectacular!
Call to Action: Ready to give one of these shrimp recipes a try? Bookmark this article for inspiration, and don’t forget to share your favorite recipe with friends or in the comments below. Happy cooking!
other recipes:
8-Thai Shrimp Curry
9-Shrimp Avocado Salad
10-Honey Garlic Shrimp
11-Shrimp and Grits
12-Mediterranean Shrimp
13-Coconut Shrimp
14-Shrimp Stir Fry
15-Shrimp Marinara
