These 19 Shrimp Recipes Always Work When I Have No Plan

When there’s no idea, no time, and no backup dinner waiting in the wings, shrimp somehow always pulls it together. These 19 easy go-tos don’t ask much, come together without complaints, and still make everyone ask what’s for seconds. They’re fast enough for chaos and still good enough to pass for effort.

Grilled Shrimp

Grilling shrimp brings out a smoky touch that pairs well with its natural flavor. Grilled Shrimp is simple and brings a charred edge that works for casual meals. The smokiness adds depth that feels hearty without being heavy. It’s easy to throw together when time isn’t on your side.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Shrimp is a great protein for bowl meals, and Shrimp Burrito Bowls keep it fresh and flexible. It’s quick to assemble and balances textures perfectly. Each bite combines the shrimp’s boldness with bright, contrasting flavors. Ideal choice for when you want simplicity but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Air Fryer Shrimp

Cooking shrimp in an air fryer makes it crispy and light without lots of work. Air Fryer Shrimp is quicker than frying and offers a clean crunch without extra oil. It’s one of those meals that fits into busy days yet still feels fulfilling. Great option for anyone wanting convenience without losing texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp

The creamy and fiery punch is what sets Bang Bang Shrimp apart. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for appetizers or a standout side. You don’t need complicated steps to get this combination of crispy and tangy flavors. It’s a recipe that’s low effort but delivers big results every time.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp and Grits

This mix of seafood and creamy sides makes Shrimp and Grits a classic. It doesn’t overwhelm, but it still packs a lot of heartiness with every bite. The pairing balances soft textures with a slight kick from the shrimp. It’s not just breakfast food; it works anytime you want something familiar.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp, combined with pasta, creates harmony in Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Every forkful blends richness with seafood in a way that feels special. The shrimp carries just enough flavor to stand out without overpowering the dish. If you’re looking for something easy yet different, it’s a solid meal choice.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Massaman Curry

With a mild approach, Massaman Curry lets shrimp shine in a warm, hearty dish. The shrimp adds texture and substance to something that feels comforting. It’s the kind of meal you want on days when you’re keeping things laid-back yet flavorful. Perfect choice when you’re in the mood for something creamy.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Thai Drunken Noodles

Wide noodles pair well with the shrimp’s lightness in Thai Drunken Noodles. The shrimp takes on a central role while balancing out bold flavors. It’s quick but doesn’t feel rushed and has enough depth to hold attention. Great option when you need a meal that feels like more than just basics.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Sushi Bake

A layered shrimp dish like Sushi Bake blends everything into a casserole format for easy eating. It doesn’t feel intimidating but packs a lot of variety into one bite. This recipe is versatile, whether you’re serving it for guests or keeping it simple on your own. Great for mixing seafood flavors without the mess.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Tandoori Shrimp

The smoky spice in Tandoori Shrimp changes up how shrimp is usually served. It’s quick yet bold enough to feel like a standout on the table. You don’t need a complicated process to achieve great layers of flavor. Works as a main or side, depending on your vibe at the moment.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp

Shrimp Cocktail

Serving shrimp cold highlights its texture, and Shrimp Cocktail does it perfectly. It’s refreshing, light, and quick to put together whether for a gathering or just yourself. Pairing the simplicity of shrimp with dipping flavors makes it feel upgraded while staying easy. It’s the ultimate stress-free seafood choice.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

The shrimp gets a tailored smoky twist in Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Combining shrimp with a fresh dressing brings balance every time. Perfect for lighter meals while keeping its complexity intact. You won’t feel overwhelmed, but the overall meal stays interesting with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Tom Yum Soup

Shrimp adds dimension to Tom Yum Soup, making it stand out with its mix of textures. It carries the boldness of its flavors without feeling overpowering or overthought. The soup format lets the shrimp upgrade the dish naturally. Whether it’s dinner or even a mid-day option, this works every time.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp meets simplicity through Shrimp Scampi, highlighting its natural profile. With a focus on minimal effort, it’s a dish that shines without unnecessary extras. The shrimp holds center stage and keeps the meal fulfilling in a very easy way. Perfect for those moments when simple works best.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Mango Shrimp Salad

Light fruity flavors meet seafood in Mango Shrimp Salad, a refreshing choice for quicker meals. The shrimp plays off sweet undertones, making every bite balanced yet easy. This is ideal for brighter lunches or when you want something fresh and relaxed. It’s a good swap for heavier meals but doesn’t feel incomplete.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

Using an Instant Pot speeds things up for Shrimp Coconut Curry, while maintaining flavor. Shrimp works well in this dish, taking on the creamy elements without feeling washed out. Perfect way to bring warming flavors into busy days. Great for simple prep with familiar seafood twists.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

Shrimp Toast

Shrimp blended into a crispy base is what makes Shrimp Toast unique and handheld. It’s lighter, quicker, and approachable without needing anything elaborate. The shrimp keeps it from feeling plain with every bite. Convenient for snacks, quick sides, or casual meals that need a seafood option.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Pairing shrimp with rich warmth in Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry ensures it stands out. It’s ideal for crafting bold meals without the fuss of tougher seafood. Every bite pulls in smooth textures alongside firmer shrimp pieces. A quick weekday staple that works without much guesswork.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Shrimp Tempura

Fried shrimp doesn’t get easier than Shrimp Tempura, balancing crisp with simplicity. It works as both an appetizer or something to snack on during busier moments. Shrimp holds well to the tempura style without needing any extras to fill the meal out. Clean, light, and straight to the point every time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura