29 Shrimp Recipes That Feel Right When Winter Drags On

Everyone hits that point where winter meals could use a boost, and 29 shrimp recipes deliver just that. Even when the days feel the same, a change at the table keeps things interesting. Swapping in shrimp for dinner can be a welcome shift from the usual dishes. New options often make planning the week feel less repetitive.

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

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.

Lightly crisp bites drizzled with a sauce that walks the line between sweet and spicy make this Bang Bang Shrimp unforgettable. Once you serve it, there are always requests for more. I love how it takes the chill out of a long winter week without much effort. You’ll see every plate wiped clean in record time.
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.

Sweetness from mango pairs with shrimp to help this Mango Shrimp Salad stand out on colder days. Bright colors and a juicy bite wake up any winter meal. I lean on this refreshing salad for moments when heavier comfort food doesn’t sound right. Even after one taste, people keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Golden crisp with a peppery bite, this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp brings some spark to quiet nights. It’s the kind of treat people talk about long after dinner is done. I turn to this dish when everyone needs a pick-me-up. A fresh squeeze of lemon makes the plate even harder to resist.
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.

Perfect crunch with none of the hassle means this Air Fryer Shrimp lands in regular rotation all winter. Quick cooking keeps things easy, yet the results taste restaurant-worthy. I like serving them for both snack attacks and easy dinners. Before you know it, these shrimp are gone.
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.

Sweet coconut crunch on the outside makes this Coconut Shrimp a crowd favorite, especially when winter is feeling endless. The texture is a welcome change compared to other warm-weather cravings. I enjoy how everyone reaches for seconds without hesitation. Pair it with a tangy dip for bonus smiles.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp

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 outsides and tender centers make this Shrimp Tempura Roll a winter party hit. Every time guests see a platter of these, they perk up. I assemble them for nights that need a little extra energy and fun. Fresh rolls disappear as soon as the first is cut.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

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.

Layers of flavor in this Sushi Bake offer so much warmth and comfort. Baked until golden, this dish feels cozy enough for the frostiest evenings. I bring it out whenever takeout just won’t cut it. Everyone wants a big scoop before it cools off.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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.

Fragrant herbs and shrimp combine in a way that makes this Thai Fried Rice truly special. The aroma alone can lift the dreariest spirits. I keep this in my go-to list for nights when there’s just a little rice left in the fridge. It never fails to spark excitement at the table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

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.

Pan-fried toasty rice and shrimp come together in this Shrimp Fried Rice for a meal that beats takeout any day. Winter evenings beg for quick wins, and this one never disappoints. I find myself returning to it when dinner needs to happen fast. Plates are always cleared by the end.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

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, comforting sauce surrounds each noodle in this Shrimp Alfredo. Steamy bowls invite you to settle in and shake off winter’s chill. I look forward to sharing the leftovers the next day. It’s a classic that proves shrimp can bring joy well past summer.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp Scampi

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

Garlic and butter bring out the best in this Shrimp Scampi. The light flavor feels just rich enough for cold evenings without feeling too heavy. I serve it when friends want something restaurant-quality in a matter of minutes. It’s hard to argue with a dish that gets requested so often.
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.

Cozy spices and silky broth help this Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot work wonders on chilly nights. The best part is how quickly it comes together with little fuss. I keep it on standby for evenings when time is in short supply. That first spoonful always brings comfort.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

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.

Bubbly crisp edges and bold flavor make this Crispy Shrimp Toast a winter crowd favorite. It draws people to the kitchen, eager for a hot bite straight out of the oven. I grab this recipe when appetizers need to be extra memorable. Each crunchy triangle vanishes fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

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.

Light, fresh, and quick to assemble, these Shrimp Tacos are always a fun surprise for dinner. The fillings burst with vibrance, making every bite an adventure. I like bringing these out for informal gatherings. Toppings make it easy for everyone to get exactly what they want.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

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.

Zingy and bright, this Shrimp Ceviche shakes up winter with a splash of flavor. Each bite is cool and lively, great when you want a break from heavier dishes. I choose it for weekends that call for something out of the ordinary. Friends always mention how refreshing it is, no matter the season.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

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.

Vibrant color and a fragrant crust make this Tandoori Shrimp hard to forget. It brings just the right amount of heat to light up any winter table. I enjoy pulling this recipe out for adventurous eaters. Heating the oven warms both the kitchen and everyone’s mood.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp

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 flavor and hearty sauce define this Shrimp Etouffee. You get layers of comfort with a bit of Southern charm thrown in. I lean on recipes like this when a regular dinner doesn’t quite hit the spot. Each ladle into a bowl means another round of “wow” from guests.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Etouffee

Shrimp Tempura

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

Crisp outside and tender inside, this Shrimp Tempura feels extra special on cold nights. There’s a sense of celebration when the platter comes around. I like that each piece stands out for both texture and flavor. Even the quietest gatherings become more lively when they are served.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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.

Aromatics fill the air as this Tom Yum Soup simmers, hinting at bold comfort. Every spoonful brings together warmth, spice, and tang. I serve it for cozy lunches on gray days. The burst of flavor wakes up every part of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

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.

Lots of layers and a punch of protein are what make these Shrimp Burrito Bowls a go-to for busy nights. Toppings turn dinner into a build-your-own party. I make extra so everyone can pack leftovers for lunch. Fresh, simple, and filling—what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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.

Delicate wrappers tuck in freshness with this Shrimp Spring Rolls recipe, bringing crunch and brightness to the winter table. Biting into one is an instant pick-me-up. I like setting out a tray for guests to help themselves. Even folks who say they’re “not shrimp people” reach back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

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 noodles and tender shrimp mingle with spicy sauce in these Thai Drunken Noodles. The tang invites people to dig in for more. I pull out this recipe when dinner needs to get exciting in a hurry. Seconds aren’t just common—they’re expected.
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.

Smoky shrimp nestle into greens in this Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. The cool, herby drizzle balances out the bold shrimp perfectly. I reach for this meal when a bit of freshness sounds better than another bowl of soup. People never stop talking about the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

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.

Cool, classic, and always a hit, this Shrimp Cocktail feels just right for parties or a quiet treat at home. The sauce brings a punch, while the shrimp are perfectly chilled. I enjoy putting out a big platter for guests to enjoy as they mingle. Each bite disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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 grains and savory shrimp blend into pure comfort in this Shrimp and Grits. Hot bowls feel just right gripped in your hands as winter rolls by outside. I never mind making extra, since requests for seconds are a given. Every spoonful reminds you why this dish is a classic.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

Luscious coconut sauce coats shrimp in this Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry, making it perfect for warming up the coldest nights. Aromas fill the kitchen before you even sit down. I tend to make extra rice because nobody wants to miss a single drop. Dinners end in silence as everyone enjoys every bite.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

Gentle heat and comforting potatoes join shrimp in this Massaman Curry. The creamy sauce lets you linger over dinner just a little longer. I turn to this dish when I want dinner to be both unique and relaxing. Bowls get scraped clean long before the night is over.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

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.

Light but filling, this Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice feels almost too healthy for comfort food season. Still, you get all the flavor with a gentle twist. I find it useful for days when veggies need to take priority. Bowls pile up until there’s nothing left to share.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice

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 big shrimp combine in this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a winter favorite that’s hard to top. One bite is all it takes before someone asks for the recipe. I always make a double batch to be safe. Even cold leftovers taste incredible the next day.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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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