27 Shrimp Recipes That Keep Dinner Satisfying Not Heavy

Home cooks often turn to 27 shrimp recipes when dinner needs to hit the spot but stay uncomplicated. Shrimp is great when you want something filling without extra fuss or heavy ingredients. The easy prep lets you focus on relaxing and enjoying the meal instead of cleanup. Weeknights feel more practical with a recipe collection like this.

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.

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.

A little snap and crunch make this Bang Bang Shrimp the star of any winter get-together. The sweet heat has people asking how it stays so light yet so bold at the same time. I reach for this recipe when I want something playful but truly comforting. It brings sparks of excitement to even the coldest evenings.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Coconut Shrimp

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

Bringing a touch of escape to a cold table, this Coconut Shrimp always gets people talking. The crispy coating and mellow flavor work together for a cozy twist that feels like something special. Folks are drawn in by the look alone, but one bite seals the deal. I love how fast these disappear at any dinner party.
Get the Recipe: Coconut 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, juicy colors in this Mango Shrimp Salad can lift even the bleakest day. The freshness draws out questions about what’s packed in every bite. Guests say it feels both light and filling, a rare winter combo. I enjoy serving this when the meal needs to feel a bit lighter without losing comfort.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Sparks always fly when this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is set on the table. The creamy sauce paired with tender bites has people guessing just what gives it that secret spark. There’s always someone hoping for leftovers the next day. It turns a chilly evening into something truly memorable every single time.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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.

Just the aroma from this Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp is enough to gather people in the kitchen. Crispy edges and a bit of spice leave guests reaching for more. I turn to this recipe when dinner needs to feel special but still easy. Every plate brings out stories and smiles.
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.

Quick, hot, and perfectly crisp, this Air Fryer Shrimp works magic for hungry crowds. The taste has people guessing how it can feel so light yet complete. I reach for it on busy weeknights when a cozy meal has to come together fast. Speed meets comfort with every single bite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Shrimp Scampi

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

Plates clear quickly once this Shrimp Scampi makes an appearance. Its aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner. I lean on this meal for special nights that don’t need extra effort. The gentle richness can turn any dreary day around without weighing you down.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

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.

Busy weeknights call for the fun and flair of this Shrimp Burrito Bowls dish. The variety excites folks who want options without any fuss or heaviness. I notice these bowls are perfect for anyone hoping for something filling but not too rich. The cheerful mix brings everyone back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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.

The seasoning in this Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry stirs up curiosity from the very first whiff. Steam rising from the bowl makes winter seem a little less harsh outside. Guests often ask for the recipe before the meal is done. I like serving it when the dinner table needs a little extra warmth and color.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

There’s a comfort in this Shrimp and Grits that feels just right when the air gets icy. Silky, spoonfuls warm you all the way through, and the first bite always leaves folks smiling. Dinner conversations pick up when this bowl is shared at the table. For chilly dinners, it’s my answer to tired appetites.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

Something so simple creates a buzz when you present these Shrimp Spring Rolls at a winter party. They look bright and fresh but are still filling enough to feel cozy on darker nights. I find these make for excellent starters that disappear before anything else does. The mix of crunch and cool wins over crowds fast.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

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.

Bold color and fragrant spice define this Tandoori Shrimp, making it impossible to miss. Each bite brings a warmth perfect for a cold night, but won’t weigh you down. I reach for it when the menu needs something a bit unexpected. Friends always ask for the secret after they taste it.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori 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.

There’s a timeless appeal to serving this Shrimp Cocktail that never grows old. Its chilled texture feels special even when the fire’s crackling in the background. I find people linger at the table, not wanting to miss the last shrimp. With minimal effort, you get a classic that fits any winter gathering.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

Steamy and rich without being heavy, this Shrimp Etouffee brings folks together on snowy nights. Every spoonful is filled with heart and comforting flavor. I prefer it when the atmosphere calls for warmth but my schedule can’t handle something fussy. The compliments always roll in after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Etouffee

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 and lively, this Thai Drunken Noodles dish keeps the winter mood bright. Bowls empty so quickly you’ll have trouble believing how much everyone enjoys them. The heat makes dinner feel like an adventure. I turn to this recipe when routine needs shaking up.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

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.

With a layer of crunch that surprises on first bite, this Crispy Shrimp Toast invites plenty of questions. People gravitate toward the appetizer platter, eager for a try. I lean on these when I want something fun to make and even more fun to eat. Each bite lifts spirits at the table.
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.

Themes of comfort and fun meet in this Sushi Bake, especially when windows frost over. The golden top gets everyone asking about how it’s made. I pick it for times I want usual flavors to feel fresh and new. It’s so popular that there are rarely leftovers to pack away.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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 citrus and chilliness in this Shrimp Ceviche create sparkle even on the grayest day. The mixture leaves people feeling refreshed rather than bogged down. I find it perfect for lighthearted gatherings in the thick of winter. Color and tang combine for something pleasantly unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

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.

A gentle mix of spices fills this Massaman Curry with quiet comfort. Friends always ask how it manages to feel rich and mild at the same time. It’s my go-to for feel-good evenings filled with conversation and easy laughter. Every bowl helps the whole room relax a little.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

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.

Colorful bowls of this Shrimp Fried Rice bring a special buzz to an otherwise ordinary night. The mix of textures keeps people coming back until every grain is gone. I love how quickly this meal comes together when winter schedules are hectic. Hearty yet not heavy, it promises satisfaction in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

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.

Winter nights run smoother with the cozy steam from this Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot dish. People always seem surprised by how much flavor you get in so little time. I make it for weeknights when energy is low but hope for something really good runs high. It pairs warmth and ease in just the right way.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

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.

Nothing brings excitement to the dinner table quite like these Shrimp Tacos on a chilly evening. Everyone creates their own, making each meal feel unique. I reach for this recipe when the family wants flavor and something hands-on. Bold but never too rich, these tacos never last long.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

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.

The aroma from this Thai Fried Rice quickly gets attention when winter weather drags on. Its gentle seasoning and soft texture hit the spot without making you feel stuffed. I lean into this dish at the end of busy days for its speed and uncomplicated warmth. Shared bowls invite everyone to linger a little longer.
Get the Recipe: Thai 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.

A wave of heat and tang sets this Tom Yum Soup apart from the first spoonful. The scent alone is enough to brighten a dreary night. Friends find comfort in its spicy broth, and conversations warm up along with the meal. I like it because it chases off any winter chill.
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.

Crisp, golden bites of this Shrimp Tempura turn any dinner into an event. The crunch makes people stop and indulge in what’s on their plate. I choose this for special occasions or when the company drops by. The fun texture delivers a sunny mood, even in the depths of winter.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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.

Smooth, rich sauce brings comfort in every forkful of this Shrimp Alfredo. People often can’t believe how light it feels, even as it impresses with every bite. When cold weather calls for a little luxury, I rely on this to keep things feeling cozy without being too much. It finds fans young and old.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

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.

Flickers of delight pass through the room with every bite of this Shrimp Tempura Roll. The crunchy filling and soft, wrapped rice please even picky eaters. I find it makes for a conversation starter at any winter dinner spread. Popularity usually means that not a single bite remains.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

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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