19 Shrimp Recipes For When You Want Fancy Without The Effort

When dinner needs to look impressive but you barely have the energy to care, these 19 shrimp recipes have your back. They make throwing together a fancy meal feel like cheating. No one needs to know how little effort it actually took. Let them think you worked some kind of seafood sorcery.

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

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.

When you want sweet and spicy without too much work, Bang Bang Shrimp is your go-to. Tender shrimp get a kick that’s just right in every bite. Ideal for a hassle-free yet impressive dish during weeknights or casual dinners. You can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleaser on your table.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang 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.

Get crispy shrimp in no time with your air fryer. Air Fryer Shrimp brings a texture and taste that feels upscale with minimal effort. It’s a quick, easy, and mess-free choice for snacks or to complement a meal. Trust this recipe to become a regular in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

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.

This dish is a timeless appetizer that’s a consistent hit with very little prep involved. The chilled shrimp served with a tangy sauce offers a refreshing and appealing starter. Shrimp Cocktail is simple enough for any occasion but always adds a touch of class. A no-brainer for easy elegance.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

Mango Shrimp Salad masterfully blends sweet and savory in a refreshing dish. This light and vibrant choice is not only simple to assemble but also fulfilling. A toss-and-serve salad that’s ready before you know it, making it an all-time favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Dig into the rich taste of Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot, where boldness is the main theme. This hearty dish, all done in the Instant Pot, mixes convenience with enchanting flavors. It’s a perfect match for rice or bread and turns dinner into a special event with no extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

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.

If creamy, saucy pasta is your kind of dish, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta won’t disappoint. It combines succulent shrimp in a luscious pasta dish that feels specially made for date nights. Comfort food at its peak, it’s a recipe made to impress with ease. Whether shared or solo, it’s a dish that’ll woo anyone.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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.

For those craving a comforting curry without the heat, Massaman Curry is the answer. It’s a flavorful recipe that layers mild curry spices in a filling dish. The Massaman Curry complements rice or bread for a complete experience. It’s one for the books, offering both convenience and marvel for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

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.

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing represents simplicity at its boldest. The juicy, spiced shrimp pair neatly with a lush salad and creamy dressing. This no-fuss yet impactful dish works for any meal. It’s the perfect blend of ease and flavor for a fulfilling lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

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.

This recipe is the ultimate Southern comfort dish. It pairs the richness of creamy grits with the satisfying taste of seasoned shrimp. Shrimp and Grits remains an effortless staple for any mealtime. Ideal for those moments when you crave comfort without complexity.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

The vibrancy of Shrimp Tacos makes dinner both entertaining and effortless. Pile on shrimp with bold toppings, and the result is an irresistible meal. It’s a quick recipe that promises fun and flavor in every bite. Just add your favorite garnishes, and dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

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.

Forget about rolling up burritos; grab a fork and dig in. Shrimp Burrito Bowls are a quick ticket to a filling meal, with all your favorite fixings in one place. They’re perfect for those nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. You’ll be swapping stories around the table in no time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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.

Crispy, golden, and totally shareable, Shrimp Toast are ideal when you’ve got friends over. Just pop them on a plate and watch them disappear – they’re that good. They’re a no-brainer for times when you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer without the fuss. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

After one spoonful, you’ll see why Tom Yum Soup is a staple in its home country. It’s all about bold, aromatic experiences with minimal kitchen time. Whip up a pot when you need a comforting bowl full of your favorite flavors. Also, it’s ideal for those days when you crave a quick soup fix.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Shrimp Scampi

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

Shrimp Scampi is all about simplicity and speed. Toss together, serve up, and watch it vanish – it’s perfect for a no-muss dinner date at home. It’s a go-to for when you feel fancy but can’t deal with a ton of dishes afterwards. Plus, it gets conversations flowing just as well as the wine.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

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.

Got a sushi craving but not the roll-making skills? Sushi Bake is the answer. It’s a fun, communal way to enjoy those sushi flavors without the usual work. Grab some friends, scoop out a portion, and enjoy this unconventional twist together.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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.

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry brings the essence of distant shores right to your kitchen, and in record time too. It’s a lifesaver when you’re craving something exotic but don’t want to spend all night cooking. The creamy, comforting flavors make it a hit any night of the week. Bring this out and watch as it quickly becomes the talk of the table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

If you’re after something with a bit of kick, Tandoori Shrimp brings it. It’s a must when you want a meal that’s both easy to fix and packed with punch. Grill up a batch for a casual yet impressive option. Everyone will be reaching for seconds before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp

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.

Spice lovers, prepare to be hooked on Thai Drunken Noodles. They’re a surefire win for anyone looking for a quick and hearty meal. It’s the kind of dish that fills the room with smells that pull everyone to the kitchen. Perfect for those last-minute meal decisions that turn into new favorites.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Shrimp Tempura

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

Looking for something with a satisfying crunch? This light, crispy favorite is surprisingly simple. Ideal for dipping, Shrimp Tempura is bound to become a go-to when you want something both easy and impressive. Just be ready for them to go fast – people can’t seem to get enough.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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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