Shrimp recipes make effortless and super-fast meals you can throw together when short on time. And shrimp is the bargain seafood, from one-pot seafood meals to grilling perfection, because it’s easy to find on sale. So stock up and freeze it for a quick, low-fat, high-protein, and nutritious meal.
![Ramp up your weeknight or date-night menu with delicious shrimp recipes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/36-best-shrimp-recipes.png)
What Goes Well With Shrimp?
Shrimp and rice were made for each other. Gumbos and creoles are amazing, and dirty rice is definitely tasty with shrimp. But pasta and au gratin potatoes are incredibly delicious with grilled shrimp.
And regarding other sides, Greek salad, easy coleslaw, or a tossed salad is always perfect. Of course, roasted veggies, like parmesan-crusted asparagus, sauteed Brussels sprouts, and broccoli salad, ramp up any delectable shrimp dinner.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! Fresh is nice, but I usually use frozen because I stock up when it’s on sale. And they’re so small you don’t even need to thaw them. While it’s best to thaw chicken and meat before cooking, shrimp are so tiny that throwing them in frozen helps them stay nice and juicy.
Super Easy Grilled & BBQ Shrimp Recipes
1. Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
![Grilled Kabobs quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1405-2.jpeg)
Juicy shrimp is marinated in a drool-worthy mix of cumin, Italian seasoning, lemon, garlic, pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. Then it’s threaded between vibrant veggies for a flavor explosion that will make the family happy. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal, and you can easily customize it!
![Grilled Shrimp Kabobs for an easy cookout idea](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/IMG_1405-150x150.jpg)
2. New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
![Delicious Orleans BBQ Shrimp recipe](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1187.jpeg)
The incredible New Orleans flavor wrapped around this shrimp with its rich buttery sauce, amazing herbs, and spices is excellent for finger-licking good time. While BBQ implies throwing it on the grill, you can sautee this super-easy shrimp recipe just as quickly.
![New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_1191-2-120x120.jpg)
3. Marinated Grilled Shrimp
![Marinated Grilled Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_3022.jpeg)
Out-of-this-world shrimp is extremely quick and easy. Honestly, this dish is perfect for entertaining because these jumbo shrimp are ready in 30 minutes or less. The marinade is a fantastic mix of sweet (honey) and sour (lemon). Then it’s kicked up a notch or two with garlic, cumin, and the perfect amount of cayenne.
![36 Best Shrimp Recipes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_3060-120x120.jpg)
4. Grilled Caribbean Coconut Shrimp
![Caribbean Grilled Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/IMG_3635.jpg)
Craving time to fire up the grill? Then pay attention to this flavorful grilled coconut shrimp seasoned with garlic, coconut milk, and thyme. Quick and easy, it’s excellent as an appetizer too!
![36 Best Shrimp Recipes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/IMG_3645-120x120.jpg)
Shrimp Gumbo & Etouffee Recipes
5. Chicken Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo
![Chicken Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo for a fave comfort food](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/1-a.webp)
Rich and flavorful gumbo is one of my favorite comfort foods. Bursting with authentic flavors and loaded with chicken, shrimp, crab legs, and sausage, this recipe is a family gathering must-have.
![Shrimp gumbo in a black saucepan with cornbread on the side](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/1-a-150x150.jpg)
6. Shrimp Étouffée
![Étouffée is rich and flavorful.](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5756-1-1.jpeg)
Juicy shrimp smothered in a rich and flavorful roux made with rich, authentic southern flavors from the traditional holy trinity. The homemade seafood broth also makes it better for a foolproof recipe with big, intense flavors!
![Shrimp Étouffée in a bowl with white rice](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/IMG_5756-1-120x120.jpg)
7. Shrimp Creole
This comforting dish of goodness with succulent shrimp simmered in a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce is as easy as it is tasty. The best part is how fast it comes together, in just 30 minutes. And, if you have gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, it’s a fantastic recipe for those on a gluten-free diet.
![Shrimp Creole](https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1200x1800-Shrimp-Creole-8.jpg)
Delicious Shrimp Recipes for Soups & Stews
8. Jamaican Curry Shrimp
![Jamaican Curry with bold flavors](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_4168-2.jpeg)
With its bold flavors, coconut milk, and the herbal flavors of thyme and bell peppers, Jamaican curry is an intense and delicious stew that is also incredibly easy to make.
![A Bowl of Jamaican Curry Shrimp Served with Rice](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IMG_4168-150x150.jpg)
9. Cajun Corn Shrimp Soup
![Cajun Corn Shrimp Soup- a classic with savory tomatoes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_2831.jpeg)
A Cajun classic made with a savory combination of tomatoes, shrimp, and corn makes the perfect soup for a chilly day! And don’t worry if you don’t have fresh corn because canned or frozen will also work.
![Cajun shrimp and corn soup](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/IMG_2932-120x120.jpg)
10. Shrimp Bisque
![Bisque is a fancier, more elegant version of chowder or soup](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Final-IMG_3500-1.jpeg)
Let’s just say shrimp bisque is a fancier, more elegant version of chowder or soup. It’s smooth and thick with a velvety texture fit for a king. So if you’re planning to surprise your loved one with an exquisite dish, this is it! 😉
![Shrimp Bisque with No Knead Bread](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Final-IMG_3500-150x150.jpg)
11. Spicy Shrimp Spinach Pasta
![Spicy Shrimp Spinach Pasta - always saves me time without compromising taste](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_9133-1.jpeg)
This easy 30-minute weeknight spinach spaghetti dinner with my preferred kind of seafood delivers a massive punch of flavor with no cream and just a handful of ingredients. It is one of my favorite fast dinners that always save me time without compromising taste.
![Spicy shrimp tomato spinach pasta](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/IMG_9131-2-120x120.jpg)
12. Cajun Shrimp Boil
![Cajun Shrimp Boil - A tasty and straightforward classic shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_2291.jpeg)
A tasty and straightforward classic shrimp boil with baby red potatoes, corn on the cob, and Andouille sausages generously seasoned with Creole seasoning and garnished with lemon make for a vibrant summer meal. Ready in less than an hour, and all you have to do is season, mix, and cook for a beautiful dinner.
![Cajun Shrimp Boil](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/IMG_2263-dd7de345-3347-4587-95ca-b76591811387-768x1080-1.jpg)
Amazing Shrimp Pasta Recipes
13. Creamy Shrimp Pasta
![Creamy Shrimp Pasta makes a rich and elegant weeknight meal](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_2277.jpeg)
Pasta smothered in a cream sauce infused with garlic and herbs, then topped with juicy shrimp for a delicious dinner in 30 minutes or less. And this rich and elegant weeknight meal is good enough for a celebration with friends.
![Creamy Shrimp and Pasta fresh from the skillet](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/IMG_2277-120x120.jpg)
14. Creamy Bacon Fettuccine Shrimp Scampi
![Creamy Bacon Fettuccine Shrimp Scampi](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_6957.jpeg)
You don’t have to leave home or pay a hefty price to enjoy this wonderful restaurant-quality meal. Bacon, shrimp, cream, and Parmesan Reggiano cheese in one meal ready in 45 minutes or less will have you dreaming of an Italian vacation.
![Creamy Bacon Fettuccine Shrimp Scampi](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/IMG_6998-120x120.jpg)
15. Blackened Shrimp Pasta
![Blackened Shrimp Pasta - every bit as good as what you get in a restaurant](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_6787-2.jpeg)
This shrimp recipe is an utterly satisfying combination of blackened shrimp and pasta in a spicy sauce. It’s ready in 30 minutes, and every bit of it is as good as what you’d get in a restaurant. That makes it great for busy weeknights and a dinner date night with your partner.
![Blackened Shrimp and Pasta](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/IMG_6787-120x120.jpg)
16. Shrimp Alfredo
![Creamy Alfredo sauce ramped up with garlic and cheese](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_6718.jpeg)
This surprisingly easy and comforting fettuccine dinner in a creamy, garlicky, rich homemade Alfredo sauce tossed with Cajun-seasoned juicy shrimp can be ready in 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight meal or special date night.
![An insanely good plate of shrimp Alfredo pasta](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_2052-scaled-e1692020394288-300x300.jpeg)
Incredible Main Course Recipes
17. Shrimp Stir Fry
![Shrimp Stir Fry with a honey, soy, and garlic-based sauce and vegetables](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_4456-2-1.jpeg)
If you’re looking for a quick and easy shrimp dinner ready in 20 minutes, this is it. This healthy Asian-inspired shrimp recipe with honey, soy, and garlic-based sauce and vegetables is perfect any time! Serving it over rice is so tasty.
![36 Best Shrimp Recipes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_4470-150x150.jpg)
18. Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
![Creamy Tuscan Shrimp - quick and easy meal with sun-dried tomatoes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_8634.jpeg)
This quick and easy one-pan shrimp meal with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and grated Parmesan offers a harmonious blend of spices and seafood in every bite. Succulent and perfectly cooked shrimp smothered in garlic butter sauce will make your day.
![Tuscan Shrimp Close Up Shot in a Pan](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG_8653-150x150.jpg)
19. Jamaican Cabbage & Shrimp
![Jamaican Cabbage & Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_8054-2-1.jpeg)
A super-fast stir-fried cabbage seasoned with aromatic spices and topped with tasty sautéed shrimp creates a delicious main dish. You can serve it over rice or with a side to accompany any meal.
![36 Best Shrimp Recipes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG_8054-120x120.jpg)
20. Garlic Butter Shrimp
![Garlic Butter Shrimp loaded with fresh herbs, paprika, garlic, lemon, and Creole Seasoning](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_0752-1.jpeg)
This quick and easy weeknight shrimp recipe is loaded with fresh herbs, paprika, garlic, lemon, and Creole Seasoning. Pile it on top of pasta, rice, or crusty bread for an incredibly flavorful meal. And the juicy, buttery, garlicky, and lemony main dish is ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish!
![Buttered Shrimps on a plate](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/IMG_0752-150x150.jpg)
Delicious Shrimp Lunch Recipes
21. Shrimp Po’Boy Sandwich
![Shrimp Po’Boy Sandwich for an insanely delicious lunch](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Feb_2021-206.jpeg)
Almost every culture has a taco version. For example, in New Orleans, tacos are called a Po’Boy sandwich. Crispy delicious shrimp piled mile-high on a buttered, toasted French roll, stuffed with crunchy cabbage and fresh tomatoes, then drizzled with a lip-smacking homemade remoulade sauce. You’ll feel like you went to heaven.
![Shrimp Po Boy Sandwich for a family picnic on the Fourth of July](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/IMG_0583-120x120.jpg)
22. Black Folks Shrimp & Grits
![Shrimp and grits](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_2002.jpeg)
Creamy, easy-to-make grits piled with Cajun-seasoned shrimp deliver bold and spicy flavors. This heavenly classic Southern comfort food is guaranteed to please the entire family!
![Black Folks Shrimp and Grits](https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/black-folks-shrimp-and-grits-2-1.jpg)
23. Shrimp Risotto
![Shrimp Risotto garnished with parsley and grated Parmesan is a meal all by itself.](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/1Shrimp-Risotto-1.jpeg)
This creamy shrimp recipe garnished with parsley and grated Parmesan is a meal all by itself. The arborio rice cooks up creamy and delicious, so don’t let risotto’s reputation scare you on this one.
![Shrimp Risotto in a Bowl](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/1Shrimp-Risotto-1-150x150.jpg)
24. Baked Shrimp
![Enjoy the delightful crunch and savory, garlicky, lemony, buttery sauce](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_0674.jpeg)
I was speechless the first time I tried this juicy, delicious shrimp dinner. The delightful crunch and savory, garlicky, lemony, buttery sauce all in a dish that’s ready in less than 30 minutes. Yeah!!! And if you’re a busy mom like me, it’s a win-win!
![36 Best Shrimp Recipes](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_0680-150x150.jpg)
25. Southern Cornmeal Fried Shrimp
![Southern Cornmeal Fried Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7429.jpeg)
Level up the regular fried shrimp with a combination of cornmeal and flour for an extra rich-tasting breading. These shrimp make a decent dinner or appetizer perfect for the whole family. You can also add it to your salad for extra flavor and texture. 👌
![Southern Cornmeal Fried Shrimp](https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Southern-cornmeal-fried-shrimp-9.jpg)
26. Crab-Stuffed Shrimp
![Crab-Stuffed Shrimp loaded with cheese and spice](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_8541-1.jpeg)
Make way for the best seafood combo of all, crab-stuffed shrimp. It’s loaded with cheese, egg, mayo, cream cheese, and a bunch of seasonings, creating a festival of exciting flavors. This dish is a dream come true for seafood lovers! 😍
![Crab-Stuffed Shrimp with lemon](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/IMG_8759-150x150.jpg)
Refreshing Shrimp Salad Recipes
27. Shrimp Salad
![Refreshing shrimp salad perfect for a BBQ party](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7784-2.jpeg)
The amazing dressing makes this incredible salad an absolute winner. Creamy mayo and a touch of Dijon mustard ramped up with my blend of Creole seasoning go great on more than just shrimp (chicken salad😉 for example). This easy shrimp salad boasting the best summer flavors is perfect for a BBQ party, picnic, potluck, or light dinner.
![Shrimp Salad](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG_7789-1-150x150.jpg)
28. Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad
![Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad with tasty tropical summer fruits](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_6707-3.jpeg)
A healthful and tasty tropical salad with summer fruits and vegetables smothered in a creamy, spicy mango dressing. Not only is this versatile dish super delicious, but also healthy and naturally gluten-free. Omit the honey for paleo.
![Pouring mango dressing over a mango avocado shrimp salad](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/IMG_6707-3-120x120.jpg)
29. Shrimp Ceviche
![Ceviche for a fantastic side or sauce](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_2746.jpeg)
A refreshing seafood recipe ready and on the table in minutes. This tantalizing shrimp ceviche is a fantastic appetizer, especially on summer days or at parties. The juicy shrimp is marinated in a vibrant citrus blend. And then mixed with tomatoes, cucumber, jalapeño, onion, mangoes, and cilantro.
![Zingy shrimp ceviche salad ready to serve](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/IMG_2746-150x150.jpg)
30. Pickled Shrimp (Southern-Style)
Oh, you’re definitely going to love these cooked shrimp soaked in a spicy vinegar brine with lots of onions and fennel. They are enjoyable on their own, but pairing them with fried chicken or fried fish will add an exciting twist to your meal. 😉
![Pickled Shrimp (Southern-Style)](https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/pickled-shrimp-4374.jpg)
Appetizing Shrimp Appetizers
32. Baked Coconut Shrimp
![Baked Coconut Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_0601.jpeg)
Need an exotic tropical vacation but don’t have the time or money? This decadent recipe for fresh shrimp dipped in coconut batter, then rolled in an aromatic combination of coconut flakes, breadcrumbs, and spices, is your ticket.
![Coconut Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/IMG_0601-150x150.jpg)
33. Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp
![Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp is irresistibly sweet, crunchy, and juicy](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_4038.jpeg)
This shrimp recipe’s crisp coconut coating is irresistibly sweet, crunchy, and juicy. When shrimp is cooked in an air fryer instead of deep-frying, they’re better for you😉. The homemade sriracha dipping sauce makes it a perfect party appetizer or game-day food.
![Dipped Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/IMG_4038-1-150x150.jpg)
34. Fried Shrimp
![Battered with cornmeal and fried to crispy perfection](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_7453.jpg)
Fresh and juicy shrimp drenched in buttermilk and then coated in highly-seasoned breadcrumbs for a light, crispy, and finger-licking good appetizer. Serve them with a mouthwatering remoulade sauce for a guaranteed family pleaser.
![Fried Shrimp](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_7429.jpg)
35. Bang Bang Shrimp
![Bang Bang makes a sizzling appetizer](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_9613.jpeg)
A sizzling shrimp appetizer that’s crispy and spicy with a ridiculously mouthwatering sauce that will have you craving more. This is the one for you if you are a fan of spicy and creamy. Even if heat isn’t your thing, you can adjust it to your tastes.
![Bang bang shrimp pasta being served for your enjoyment](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_0880-300x300.jpg)
36. Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
![Bacon wrapping is super easy](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1319e.jpeg)
Bacon and shrimp is a combo you never knew you needed until you taste them. It’s super easy and simply customizable to your palate. Replace honey with sugar-free substitutes like sucralose or stevia, and you’ll have a tasty low-carb and keto-friendly appetizer in no time.
![Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is the best of both worlds for meat and seafood lovers](https://www.africanbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_1319e-300x300.jpg)
Conclusion
Shrimp make the best-est affordable elegant dishes. And they are naturally scrumptious, making every dish effortlessly delicious. Which recipe in this list is your fave? Let me know in the comments!
This blog post was originally published in August 2021 and has been updated with new recipes.
Kathy Frank says
Your recipes are amazing. Thank you for sharing your talent for cooking. Yummo is all I can say!!
Imma says
Oh great to hear that. Thank you so much!