29 Shrimp Recipes For Lighter Comfort On Cold Nights

Weeknight dinners get a helpful boost when 29 shrimp recipes are on hand during winter. Having choices that land somewhere between filling and fresh can really come in handy. Shrimp recipes offer that kind of comfort people crave when it’s cold outside. Warm meals like these often make the season a little brighter.

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.

Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light crunch and a peppery kick give this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp a lively edge, especially on cold nights. The shrimp arrive golden and sizzling, perfect for sharing at the table. I enjoy how quickly this dish cooks up when cravings hit. People love the way each bite pops with flavor and sparkle.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Air Fryer Shrimp

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

Snappy texture and speedy prep turn this Air Fryer Shrimp into an easy answer for winter dinners. The shrimp come out crisp with less mess than frying. I reach for this method whenever I need something quick but impressive. Everyone notices how light and crunchy these turn out with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Coconut Shrimp

A bowl filled with golden-brown, breaded and fried shrimp, garnished with chopped herbs.
Coconut Shrimp. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Crunchy coating and a taste of the tropics let this Coconut Shrimp transform the winter table into something fun. Each shrimp brings a sweet, nutty finish that has guests reaching for more. I save this recipe for when I want a touch of sunshine indoors. The golden shells always get big smiles.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp

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.

Creamy sauce and tender shrimp combine in this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a meal that feels special on even the coldest nights. The aroma signals comfort is on the way. I find this one perfect for date nights in or impressing friends with little fuss. Most people rave about the mix of flavors and rich texture.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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.

Crispy bites with a kick of heat make this Bang Bang Shrimp a favorite for warming up after long days. Sauce coats each piece, so every forkful delivers punch and crunch. I double the batch, since they always disappear fast. Guests usually ask what’s behind that spicy finish.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang 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.

Bright fruit and cool crunch bring this Mango Shrimp Salad a refreshing spot during comfort-food winters. Light, sweet notes balance out the shrimp for a surprising twist. I love serving this when heavier meals have started to feel routine. Feedback often centers on the lively color and juicy texture.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Tangy citrus and a chill from the fridge set this Shrimp Ceviche apart at winter gatherings. Each scoop offers a burst of flavor that’s lively and unexpected. I use this dish as a refreshing starter for cozy nights in. People most often praise the lightness and vibrant taste.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy coconut sauce and warm spices make this Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry one of the coziest picks for winter dinners. Each bowl serves up rich, inviting flavor. I enjoy making this for special evenings when something extra is needed. The aroma fills the house and draws everyone closer.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

Full-bodied sauce and quick prep are the biggest perks of this Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot dinner. The shrimp turn out perfectly cooked and juicy. I toss everything together in the pot and let it do the work. Most reviews mention the deep flavor and creamy finish.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

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.

Creamy sauce and twirling noodles carry this Shrimp Alfredo through long, cold evenings when warmth is needed most. Hearty but light enough to keep you comfortable, it promises smiles at every table. I welcome requests for seconds whenever this dish appears. Friends note the way the shrimp and pasta play together so well.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

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.

Colorful toppings and seasoned shrimp make these Shrimp Burrito Bowls just right for evenings that call for variety. Each bowl can be mixed to suit every taste at the table. I assemble them buffet-style to let people pick their favorites. Raves focus on the freshness and fun build-your-own approach.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Crispy Shrimp Toast

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

Slices of bread crisped up with shrimp topping provide this Crispy Shrimp Toast an inviting crunch on chilly nights. Each piece offers the perfect mix of savory and light. I cut them into small squares for easy sharing at parties. Snackers are always curious about what makes the toast so golden and rich.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

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.

Warm layers and a creamy finish let this Sushi Bake twist classic rolls into pure winter comfort. Each scoop captures the fun of sushi in cozy casserole form. I serve this at potlucks where unique dishes are wanted. Guests mention the playful blend of textures and flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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.

Crunchy tempura and sticky rice bring this Shrimp Tempura Roll a spot at any cold-weather sushi night. The rolls hold their shape for easy chopstick handling. I line up plates for grab-and-go bites during family movie times. People talk about the fun combination of warm shrimp and cool nori.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Shrimp Etouffee

A bowl of white rice topped with cooked shrimp, diced tomatoes, green onions, and sauce, garnished with chopped herbs and lime wedges.
Shrimp Etouffee. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Deep, stew-like flavors define this Shrimp Etouffee for nights when all you want is comfort. The rich sauce seeps into every spoonful, carrying warmth into every bite. I serve this over fluffy rice to soak up extra gravy. Friends go back for seconds and always ask about the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Etouffee

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.

Smoky, spiced notes fill the kitchen as this Tandoori Shrimp cooks, making it a welcome escape from plain winter food. Every piece gets a hit of heat that lingers. I line these up on skewers for easy serving. Comments often focus on how the seasoning stands out.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori 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.

Creamy grits and buttery shrimp team up in this Shrimp and Grits to create the heartiest comfort for crisp evenings. Each bowl disappears quickly at the table. I love seeing the steam rise as everyone digs in. It’s a dish people will always remember for its warmth.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

Chilled bites and tangy sauce keep this Shrimp Cocktail fresh and simple for holiday spreads. Every shrimp snaps with flavor as soon as it’s dipped. I stack bowls over ice for a pretty, practical touch. Compliments come rolling in about the clean, classic taste.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

Charred edges and creamy dressing turn this Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing into a light meal that still brings comfort. The colors pop on the plate for a little mid-winter cheer. I stack leftovers for lunchboxes. Most raves are about the bold seasoning and cool sauce.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Thai Fried Rice

A plate of shrimp fried rice with pieces of scrambled egg, green onions, and leafy vegetables.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Savory, toothsome grains mixed with shrimp give this Thai Fried Rice a laid-back luxury perfect for cold weather. Variety and color keep dinner interesting every time. I scoop leftovers for next-day meals. Friends call out the punch of flavor in each forkful.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, purple cabbage, carrots, greens, and topped with chopped peanuts and peanut sauce, served on a plate.
Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fresh crunch and herby scent make these Shrimp Spring Rolls a break from heavy comfort food, even on cold evenings. Each roll is wrapped and ready for dipping fun. I prep the fillings ahead for quick assembling. Guests love the burst of flavor and smart presentation.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

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.

Tender shrimp meet golden rice in this Shrimp Fried Rice, turning leftovers into a new favorite—especially in winter. Every bite holds a mix of flavors from the pan. I pour leftovers into lunch boxes for another tasty meal. People comment on how it hits the spot without being too rich.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

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.

Soft tortillas and seasoned shrimp give these Shrimp Tacos extra brightness for colder nights. Toppings can be mixed for endless twists to keep things interesting at the table. I set up a taco bar so everyone can build their own bundle. Most comments are about how fresh and filling each taco feels.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp Scampi

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

Bright garlic and buttery sauce make this Shrimp Scampi a cold-weather classic that’s still light. The shrimp come out delicate, creating a meal that feels both elegant and easy to enjoy. I serve up big bowls when company comes. Guests usually comment on the citrusy aroma before the first forkful.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

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.

Clever swaps and snug flavors build this Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice for anyone craving something wholesome, even in winter. The texture is so close to regular that people are always surprised. I serve it when I want a lighter meal without losing comfort. Friends appreciate the smart twist on a classic takeout favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

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.

Fragrant broth and a lively tang turn this Tom Yum Soup into a stand-out for cold nights. Spoonfuls deliver both a gentle burn and a soul-warming kick. I use it as a starter to wake up dinner guests. Feedback focuses on just how refreshing and bright it tastes.
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.

Extra crisp coating and tender shrimp keep this Shrimp Tempura at the center of the table during family movie nights. Dipping sauces make every bite more fun. I make a big plate, knowing everyone loves snagging seconds. The secret to its popularity is the perfect golden crunch.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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.

Slow-steeped spices and a creamy finish give this Massaman Curry deep comfort value for long winter evenings. Each spoonful combines warmth and sweetness. I use it to introduce friends to new flavors. Most praise the subtle richness and gentle heat.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

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.

Wide, chewy noodles and a punch of flavor help this Thai Drunken Noodles earn a spot in the cold-weather comfort lineup. Sauce wraps every strand to keep the dish lively. I crank up the spice when I want to feel extra warm. Comments center on how every bite stays bold to the end.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

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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