Discover the ultimate shrimp cookbook with the best grilled, fried, and pan-seared shrimp recipes! From quick and easy garlic butter shrimp to crispy fried shrimp and spicy Cajun flavors, this guide has everything you need for a delicious seafood feast. Perfect for any occasion—try these must-have shrimp recipes today!
1. Garlic Butter Shrimp 🧄🦐
This Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish made with juicy shrimp, garlic, butter, and a hint of lemon. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or as a main dish with vegetables.
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
✅ 4 cloves garlic (minced)
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
✅ 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
✅ 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
1️⃣ Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
2️⃣ In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
3️⃣ Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Add Lemon & Garnish
4️⃣ Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and toss the shrimp. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
5️⃣ Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
🔥 Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp:
✔ Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
✔ Don’t overcook shrimp—they only need 2-3 minutes total.
✔ Add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
✔ Pair with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
This garlic butter shrimp is simple, delicious, and restaurant-quality!
2. Cajun Grilled Shrimp 🔥🌶️
This Cajun Grilled Shrimp recipe features spicy, smoky flavors from a Cajun seasoning blend and is cooked to perfection on the grill. The juicy shrimp are full of bold flavors, making them the perfect addition to salads, tacos, or served on their own!
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil
✅ 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
✅ 1 tsp garlic powder
✅ ½ tsp smoked paprika
✅ ¼ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ Juice of 1 lime
✅ 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
✅ Lemon wedges (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator for extra flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
2️⃣ Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grill grates with cooking spray or oil.
Step 3: Grill the Shrimp
3️⃣ Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers (or place them directly on the grill if using a grill pan). Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Make sure not to overcook them.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
4️⃣ Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill and drizzle with fresh lime juice. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
🔥 Tips for the Best Cajun Grilled Shrimp:
✔ Use large shrimp for a meatier texture that holds up well on the grill.
✔ Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
✔ Serve with grilled vegetables or over rice for a complete meal.
✔ Marinate longer for more intense flavor—up to an hour in the fridge is ideal.
This Cajun Grilled Shrimp is bold, smoky, and full of flavor—perfect for your next BBQ or dinner party!
3. Crispy Fried Shrimp 🍤✨
These Crispy Fried Shrimp are golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor! Coated in a light batter, fried to perfection, and served with a dipping sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer or main dish.
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 1 cup all-purpose flour
✅ ½ cup cornmeal
✅ 1 tsp baking powder
✅ 1 tsp paprika
✅ 1 tsp garlic powder
✅ ½ tsp onion powder
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ 1 cup buttermilk
✅ 1 large egg
✅ Vegetable oil (for frying)
✅ Lemon wedges (for serving)
✅ Tartar sauce or cocktail sauce (for dipping)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
1️⃣ Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
3️⃣ Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk mixture, then coat it generously in the flour mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure a thick coating.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
4️⃣ In a deep pan or pot, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the shrimp in batches into the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and drain them on paper towels.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
5️⃣ Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or cocktail sauce.
🔥 Tips for the Best Crispy Fried Shrimp:
✔ Use buttermilk for a richer batter and extra tenderness in the shrimp.
✔ Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure the shrimp are crispy.
✔ Keep the oil temperature steady for a perfect golden crust.
✔ Add extra spices to the batter for more flavor or heat, like Cayenne pepper or old bay seasoning.
These Crispy Fried Shrimp are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a quick weeknight treat.
4. Honey Garlic Shrimp 🍯🥢
This Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with sticky honey sauce and garlicky goodness. Quick and easy, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering!
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil
✅ 3 cloves garlic (minced)
✅ ¼ cup honey
✅ 2 tbsp soy sauce
✅ 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
✅ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
✅ 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
✅ 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
✅ Lemon wedges (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
1️⃣ Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
3️⃣ In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp & Sauce
4️⃣ Return the shrimp to the pan and toss them in the honey garlic sauce. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the shrimp are well coated.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
5️⃣ Garnish with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with rice or your favorite side dishes.
🔥 Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Shrimp:
✔ Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
✔ Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey depending on your taste.
✔ Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
✔ For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or sprinkle with green onions before serving.
This Honey Garlic Shrimp is packed with flavor and perfect for those busy nights when you want.
5. Shrimp Scampi Pasta 🍝🍋
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish featuring garlicky shrimp tossed in a buttery, lemony sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a classic favorite for a special dinner or weeknight meal.
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti or linguine works best)
✅ 3 tbsp olive oil
✅ 4 cloves garlic (minced)
✅ ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
✅ ½ cup unsalted butter
✅ Juice of 1 lemon
✅ Zest of 1 lemon
✅ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
✅ Salt and pepper, to taste
✅ 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
✅ Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1️⃣ Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
2️⃣ While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
3️⃣ In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Shrimp
4️⃣ Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a smooth sauce. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well coated.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
5️⃣ Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. Add red pepper flakes (optional), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
🔥 Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Pasta:
✔ Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and should be tender and juicy.
✔ Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for the best flavor, or substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
✔ Add more butter for an extra rich sauce or use a bit of pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
✔ Serve with garlic bread for a complete Italian-style meal.
This Shrimp Scampi Pasta is elegant yet easy, perfect for a date night or family dinner.
6. Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp 🍋🔥
This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is a light and fresh dish, featuring zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and perfectly grilled shrimp. It’s perfect for summer BBQs or a healthy dinner option, ready in no time!
📝 Ingredients:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil
✅ 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
✅ 1 tbsp lemon zest
✅ 2 cloves garlic (minced)
✅ 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
✅ 1 tsp fresh thyme (or dried)
✅ ½ tsp dried oregano
✅ ¼ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ Lemon wedges (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade
1️⃣ In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk together to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
2️⃣ Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 15-30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
3️⃣ Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
4️⃣ Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers (or place directly on the grill if using a grill pan). Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, making sure not to overcook.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
5️⃣ Remove the shrimp from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
🔥 Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp:
✔ Don’t marinate too long—shrimp only need about 15-30 minutes.
✔ Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
✔ Grill shrimp in a single layer for even cooking and to prevent them from falling through the grates.
✔ Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or over zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.
This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for your next grill session.
7. Bang Bang Shrimp 🌶️🍤
Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish known for its crispy shrimp coated in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce. The perfect appetizer or dinner option, it’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
📝 Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 1 cup all-purpose flour
✅ 1 tsp paprika
✅ 1 tsp garlic powder
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ 1 large egg
✅ ½ cup buttermilk
✅ Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
✅ ¼ cup mayonnaise
✅ ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
✅ 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
✅ 1 tsp honey
✅ 1 tsp rice vinegar
Garnish:
✅ Chopped green onions (for garnish)
✅ Sesame seeds (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
1️⃣ Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
2️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat together egg and buttermilk. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk mixture, then coat in the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
3️⃣ Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
4️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Taste and adjust the sauce for sweetness and spice as desired.
Step 5: Coat the Shrimp in Sauce
5️⃣ In a large bowl, toss the crispy shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
6️⃣ Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional). Enjoy with a side of rice, noodles, or as a stand-alone appetizer!
🔥 Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp:
✔ Fry shrimp in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and achieve crispy results.
✔ Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce.
✔ Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their crispiest!
✔ Try serving with a side of Asian-style slaw or over a bed of lettuce for a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
This Bang Bang Shrimp is crunchy, spicy, and creamy in one bite. It’s perfect for parties, dinners, or as a snack!
8. Shrimp and Grits 🧀🥄
Shrimp and Grits is a beloved Southern classic, bringing together succulent shrimp and creamy, cheesy grits. The perfect balance of comfort and flavor, this dish is easy to make and delicious.
📝 Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
✅ 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled & deveined)
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil
✅ 3 cloves garlic (minced)
✅ 1 tsp paprika
✅ 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
✅ 1 tbsp lemon juice
✅ Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Grits:
✅ 1 cup stone-ground grits
✅ 4 cups water (or chicken broth for added flavor)
✅ 2 tbsp butter
✅ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✅ ½ cup heavy cream
✅ Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional):
✅ Chopped green onions
✅ Bacon crumbles
✅ Lemon wedges
👨🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Grits
1️⃣ In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add the grits and reduce the heat to low. Stir frequently and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Add more water or broth if they get too thick.
2️⃣ Stir in butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
3️⃣ While the grits are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4️⃣ Add the shrimp and season with paprika, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
5️⃣ Spoon a generous portion of the cheesy grits onto each plate. Top with the shrimp and spoon over the sauce from the pan.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
6️⃣ Garnish with chopped green onions, and bacon crumbles, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
🔥 Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits:
✔ Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they cook very quickly and can become rubbery.
✔ Use stone-ground grits for the best texture.
✔ Add more cheese for extra richness, or mix in Parmesan for a twist.
✔ Garnish with crispy bacon for an extra crunch and flavor.
This dish is a true Southern comfort food that’s perfect for family meals or special occasions.
