These 21 Shrimp Recipes Keep My Grocery Bill in Check

Keeping costs down without getting bored is no small task, especially when it comes to meals. These 21 shrimp recipes managed to stretch things out while keeping things interesting. They work when the fridge looks sad and the wallet’s even sadder. Somehow, a single bag felt like it had backup dancers.

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.

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers served on a plate, topped with chopped herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for a quick meal that’s light yet filling, Grilled Shrimp is a great option. Tossed on the grill, this dish is simple to make and pairs well with almost anything. It’s an affordable way to enjoy seafood without going over your budget. Serve it as a main dish or alongside a salad for a no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

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 is a flavorful dish that’s surprisingly budget-friendly. Spicy shrimp mixed with fresh greens balances perfectly with the richness of the dressing. This salad is hearty enough to enjoy as a main course but still inexpensive compared to dining out.
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.

Combining comfort food with affordability, Shrimp and Grits checks all the boxes. The creamy grits paired with shrimp make it both hearty and cost-effective. It’s a versatile meal that feels enjoyable while still being gentle on your wallet. Plus, it’s perfect for any time of day, from breakfast to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

Refreshing and budget-friendly, Mango Shrimp Salad is ideal when you want something light yet satisfying. The shrimp adds protein while mango delivers a sweet contrast, making it an all-around balanced dish. This is a good option for a quick meal without overspending on groceries. You can enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or as a side for a larger meal.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Skip expensive takeout and make Shrimp Burrito Bowls at home for a fraction of the cost. These bowls are loaded with shrimp and other simple components, making them filling and affordable. They’re also customizable to fit whatever you have on hand in your pantry or fridge. This is a great way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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 and affordable, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delicious option for when you want to stretch your grocery budget. It combines shrimp in a sauce that’s rich but surprisingly simple to make. This dish delivers the taste of a fancy restaurant meal without requiring fancy ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want variety without spending a lot, Grilled Shrimp Kabobs is a great pick. The shrimp cooks quickly on skewers, making this meal both fast and budget-friendly. It’s perfect for when you’re feeding a crowd, as you can easily adjust the portion sizes. Pair with veggies or rice for a complete and low-cost meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Shrimp Tempura

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

You can make the restaurant-favorite Shrimp Tempura right at home without spending too much. This crispy shrimp dish is easier to prepare than you might think. It’s a simple way to enjoy something that feels special without breaking your budget. Perfect as an appetizer or paired with other sides, it works for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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.

With its bold flavor, Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that delivers impact on a budget. It’s a simple recipe that features shrimp in a sauce with just the right amount of spice. This dish feels indulgent but is actually affordable to make at home. Serve it as an appetizer or make a larger portion for an easy dinner solution.
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.

Affordable and incredibly easy to prepare, Air Fryer Shrimp is a great choice for quick weeknight meals. The air fryer makes this dish crispy without adding extra oil, keeping things light and cost-effective. It’s perfect for pairing with a variety of sides or adding to salads, pasta, or rice dishes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer 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.

Making sushi at home is easier and cheaper than you’d expect with Shrimp Tempura Roll. The combination of crispy shrimp and optional fillings gives you endless customization. It’s a fraction of the cost of ordering sushi, making it a practical and fun meal option. Whether for a casual night or a gathering, this recipe is a definite crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

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.

Quick and budget-friendly, Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot delivers full flavor without extra cost. The Instant Pot makes this dish incredibly convenient while keeping things affordable. The creamy curry sauce pairs beautifully with shrimp, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

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.

Fancy yet affordable, Shrimp Cocktail is a recipe that’s as impressive as it is practical. Make this at home for parties, appetizers, or even light lunches, and you’ll save significantly compared to store-bought. The simplicity of this dish means you can prepare it quickly without sacrificing taste. A timeless option, this recipe works well for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

Packed with bold flavors, Massaman Curry is a shrimp-based dish that stays budget-friendly. Its unique taste feels like a splurge, but it’s very affordable when cooked at home. This is a great meal to pair with rice for maximum value and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, it’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Shrimp Scampi

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

Elegant and economical, Shrimp Scampi proves you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy a satisfying meal. The shrimp is quick to cook, which makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights. With pasta or a side of bread, you can create a hearty meal that feels fancy on a budget. This recipe is a kitchen staple that’s both simple and affordable to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

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.

For a budget-friendly take on Thai cuisine, Tom Yum Soup is a must-try. Shrimp adds protein to the spicy, tangy broth for a warm, flavorful meal. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and it costs much less than ordering takeout. This is a comforting and refreshing recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

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.

A popular favorite, Shrimp Tacos are a budget-friendly way to enjoy something festive at home. They’re easy to assemble and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Shrimp is versatile and pairs well with whatever toppings you have on hand, keeping costs low. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t sacrifice quality for price.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

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 craving bold flavors on a budget, Tandoori Shrimp is a fantastic option. The shrimp is marinated in spices and cooks quickly, making it an easy yet flavorful choice. Serve it with rice or flatbread to create a full meal without overspending. It’s a simple way to bring international cuisine into your routine at home.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp

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.

Perfect as a snack or light meal, Shrimp Toast is another wallet-friendly favorite. It’s easy to prepare and surprisingly filling while keeping costs in check. The shrimp topping adds both flavor and protein to plain pieces of bread, transforming them into something special. Great for entertaining or just a casual snack, this recipe is endlessly versatile.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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 and flavorful, Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry is an affordable dish that feels indulgent without the high price. Shrimp provides the protein while the coconut base adds richness, making it a well-rounded meal. Serve it over rice or noodles to maximize portions without adding extra cost. This recipe is an approachable way to enjoy Thai-inspired flavors at home.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

Turn sushi night into an affordable experience with Sushi Bake. This layered dish has all the flavors of sushi but is simple to prepare and easier on your wallet. It’s a practical way to enjoy shrimp in a comforting, shareable format. Perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners, it’s as convenient as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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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