25 Shrimp Recipes Let Me Get Creative Without Blowing My Budget

Who knew that stretching a budget could still make room for 25 shrimp dishes with so much variety? It’s the kind of list that keeps dinner fun without watching your wallet cry. Every recipe brings a different spin so nothing feels repetitive. That’s the sort of magic that turns a week of meals into a small victory.

A bowl of Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot, served on a blue woven placemat with a spoon on the side.
Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice with peas, eggs, and diced vegetables being stirred with a wooden spatula.
Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Quick meals feel fresh when Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice is on the menu. It works for weeknights when you need something filling without being heavy. People like the easy prep and cleanup that save time. Leftovers fit well in lunchboxes for another meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fast dinners often feature Air Fryer Shrimp since it cooks up in minutes. It’s a popular choice for those watching their budget but still wanting something special. Pair it with sides for a meal or toss it onto salads for variety. The crispy finish proves you don’t need a lot of work for good results.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Backyard meals feel more fun with sticks of Grilled Shrimp Kabobs ready to serve. Bright colors and bite-sized pieces keep people grabbing for more. This dish fits into party spreads or quick dinners just as well. Cleanup is easy, and the leftovers never last long.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of fettuccine pasta with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper.
Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Busy families appreciate how Shrimp Alfredo turns simple pasta nights into something memorable. The creamy sauce gets rave reviews from both kids and adults. This meal works for quick dinners or casual gatherings. Most people agree it’s worth repeating every week.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

People reach for seconds when bowls of Bang Bang Shrimp hit the table. The sauce keeps conversation going as everyone guesses the secret. Extra servings come in handy for hungry guests. This dish is easy enough for any skill level but always feels special.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of creamy grits topped with shrimp in a tomato-based sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.
Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Big comfort comes with scoops of Shrimp and Grits served straight from the pan. It remains popular for bringing families together over a single dish. Even picky eaters find something to enjoy in each bite. Extra servings are common, so plan for big batches.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers served on a plate, topped with chopped herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cooks enjoy having Grilled Shrimp on hand for busy nights or last-minute plans. The char makes each piece stand out without extra expense. This option fits casual meals and parties alike. It’s simple to make but keeps friends asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crisp meals feel new with bowls of Mango Shrimp Salad at lunchtime. The mix of sweet and savory gets praise from salad lovers. It’s perfect for light meals without stretching your budget. Leftovers make a good snack in the afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy fans crowd around when Thai Drunken Noodles appear at dinner. The noodles offer both heat and bold flavor, perfect for sharing. This recipe makes creative use of shrimp for something a bit different. Guests usually ask for seconds before the pan is gone.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Meals get a healthy swing with bowls of Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. It’s full of crunch and bright flavors that make it fit for lunch or dinner. This salad keeps energy up through busy days. Take leftovers in a container for a simple meal later.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Group dinners often feature plates piled with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta since it feeds a crowd. Creamy texture and bold taste get everyone talking. This dish is easy on your wallet but feels like a treat. Many enjoy it for special events and simple weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail with peeled shrimp arranged on the rim of a glass filled with cocktail sauce, garnished with parsley.
Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple snacks win with bowls of Shrimp Cocktail at parties and dinners. Most people reach for a second round once the first is gone. This dish travels well for events or meal prep. Cold servings make it easy to store and eat the next day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Families notice how smooth flavors come together in bowls of Massaman Curry. The warmth and hint of spice make for a memorable meal. This recipe offers an affordable way to enjoy something different. It’s a good choice for sharing with friends after work.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Busy mornings often start off better with slices of Shrimp Toast on the table. Each piece is crispy and perfect for a quick grab-and-go option. This delicious snack not only adds variety to your breakfast but also does so without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Shrimp Fried Rice

A red plate of shrimp fried rice garnished with chopped green onions, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Shrimp Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Kitchen staples always get used up with big pans of Shrimp Fried Rice. It’s versatile, fitting as a side or main meal with no fuss. Families depend on this one for fast dinners during busy weeks. It also works for school lunches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Tandoori Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers seasoned with spices and garnished with fresh herbs, served on a dark plate.
Tandoori Shrimp. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Friends get excited when platters of Tandoori Shrimp are served for dinner. The bold flavor is a standout compared to regular shrimp recipes. This meal brings a creative twist to busy nights. People chat about new spices while reaching for extras.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lunch hours get easier with homemade Shrimp Burrito Bowls packed up to go. Fresh toppings and mix-ins keep each bowl custom and fun. This meal stretches ingredients for more than one use. Prep ahead makes both lunch and dinner stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rolling up Shrimp Tempura Roll is a great way to get creative without spending much. It’s a favorite for group snacks or casual evenings at home. The crisp shrimp stands out against the simple rice and wrap. Any leftovers work well for tomorrow’s lunch.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Shrimp Ceviche

A close-up of shrimp ceviche with sliced red onions and chopped cilantro, served in a decorative green bowl.
Shrimp Ceviche. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bright bites of Shrimp Ceviche bring life to any party spread. Each scoop is refreshing and light, making it perfect for warmer days. This dish is wallet-friendly while letting you try something new. Serve it with chips or as a side for extra options.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla.
Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Quick weeknight meals come together fast with Shrimp Tacos at dinner. The filling goes well with many toppings for extra crunch. People enjoy mixing things up every time they make it. This dish works for low-budget nights and big group dinners too.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lively dinners featuring pans of Sushi Bake are perfect for sharing with friends and family. This dish is not only easy and creative, but it also fits into most budgets, making it an accessible option for everyone. Many people discover that it quickly becomes a new family favorite after just one taste.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bold flavors make Tom Yum Soup stand out among shrimp recipes when you want something different. Lots of cooks keep it on rotation for quick lunches or dinners. The rich broth gives a boost at mealtime. People recommend it for those who like a bit of heat.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños.
Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Golden bites of Shrimp Tempura show up everywhere from snack trays to dinner plates. Frying gives each piece a crispy shell without much work. This dish is a crowd pleaser for gatherings big and small. You’ll want to keep extra shrimp on hand for second rounds.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Shrimp Scampi

Close-up of cooked shrimp seasoned with herbs and black pepper.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Family tables feel full with plates of Shrimp Scampi passed around for dinner. Its simple method leaves room for creativity with sides or add-ons. It’s a go-to recipe for busy cooks who want something fresh. Guests nearly always ask for some to take home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

A bowl of Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot, served on a blue woven placemat with a spoon on the side.
Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Fast dinners turn out easy with bowls of Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot ready to serve. The mild heat is right for a family meal or solo night in. Budget isn’t a problem, making it a regular choice for home cooks. Clean-up takes little time, so you can relax after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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