7 Best Shrimp Recipes for a Speedy Dinner

Why Shrimp is Your Weeknight Dinner Savior Quick Cooking and Versatile

Okay, let's be real. Weeknights are hectic. Between work, kids, errands, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life, cooking a gourmet meal is usually the last thing on your mind. That's where shrimp comes in. This little crustacean is a total lifesaver because it cooks up in minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you're short on time but still want a delicious and healthy dinner.

But speed isn't the only thing shrimp has going for it. It's also incredibly versatile. You can grill it, bake it, fry it, sauté it, or even throw it in the microwave (though we don't necessarily recommend that last one). It pairs well with just about any flavor profile, from Asian-inspired stir-fries to creamy Italian pasta dishes. So, whether you're craving something spicy, savory, or sweet, shrimp can deliver.

Recipe 1: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Classic and Irresistible

Garlic butter shrimp scampi is a classic for a reason. It's simple, elegant, and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it's ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta (linguine or spaghetti recommended)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for about a minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. If using, pour in white wine and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over cooked pasta. Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.

Product Recommendation: For a richer flavor, use Kerrygold Irish Butter. It's a bit pricier (around $4-5 per stick) but the taste is worth it. You can find it at most major grocery stores like Kroger and Whole Foods. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, Land O'Lakes butter works just fine (around $2-3 per stick).

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.

Recipe 2: Shrimp Fajitas Sizzling and Customizable Shrimp Fajitas Recipe Ideas

Shrimp fajitas are a fun and interactive meal that's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner. Let everyone customize their own fajitas with their favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 packet fajita seasoning
• Flour tortillas
• Toppings: salsa, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, lettuce, etc.

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and fajita seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp is pink and opaque.
4. Warm tortillas according to package directions.
5. Serve shrimp and vegetable mixture in tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Product Recommendation: Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning is a reliable and readily available option (around $1-2 per packet). For a more authentic flavor, try making your own fajita seasoning blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.

Recipe 3: Coconut Shrimp Tropical and Crispy Coconut Shrimp Recipe

Coconut shrimp is a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that's both tropical and crispy. It's perfect for a summer luau or a fun weeknight treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine shredded coconut, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In another shallow dish, whisk together egg and milk.
3. Dip each shrimp in the egg mixture, then dredge in the coconut mixture, pressing to coat.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels.

Product Recommendation: Use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sweet flavor. You can find it at most grocery stores in the baking aisle (around $3-4 per bag). For a crispier coating, try using panko breadcrumbs in addition to the coconut.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a sweet chili sauce or a mango salsa for dipping.

Recipe 4: Shrimp Stir-Fry Healthy and Customizable Asian Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe

Shrimp stir-fry is a healthy and customizable meal that's perfect for using up leftover vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and snow peas and cook until slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
6. Pour sauce over shrimp and vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve over cooked rice.

Product Recommendation: San-J Tamari Soy Sauce is a gluten-free option that's also lower in sodium than regular soy sauce (around $5-6 per bottle). For a spicier stir-fry, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

Serving Suggestion: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Recipe 5: Shrimp Tacos Fresh and Flavorful Shrimp Taco Recipe Ideas

Shrimp tacos are a fresh and flavorful meal that's perfect for a warm evening. They're easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Toppings: shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, etc.

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp is pink and opaque.
4. Warm tortillas according to package directions.
5. Serve shrimp in tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Product Recommendation: La Tortilla Factory Low Carb Tortillas are a great option for a healthier taco night (around $4-5 per package). For a creamier taco, add a drizzle of chipotle mayo.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of black beans and corn salad.

Recipe 6: Lemon Herb Baked Shrimp Simple and Elegant Baked Shrimp Recipe

Lemon herb baked shrimp is a simple and elegant meal that's perfect for a light and healthy dinner. It's easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Pour lemon herb mixture over shrimp.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp is pink and opaque.

Product Recommendation: Use a good quality olive oil, like California Olive Ranch Everyday Olive Oil (around $10-12 per bottle), for the best flavor. Fresh herbs are always preferable, but dried herbs can be substituted (use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs).

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.

Recipe 7: Shrimp Pasta Primavera Colorful and Delicious Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Shrimp pasta primavera is a colorful and delicious meal that's perfect for showcasing fresh spring vegetables. It's a healthy and satisfying way to enjoy the season's bounty.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rotini, or farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onion and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes and cook until slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
6. Stir in peas and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables.
8. Toss to combine.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Product Recommendation: Barilla Pasta is a widely available and affordable option (around $1-2 per box). For a healthier option, try using whole wheat pasta or lentil pasta.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of garlic bread.