These 21 Shrimp Recipes Make Our Dinner Feel Fancy Without the Cost

There’s a fine line between “wow, this is nice” and “how much did this cost,” and these 21 shrimp ideas walk it like pros. They’re the cheat code for looking like a dinner genius without blowing the grocery budget. Everything feels dressed up enough for company but low-key enough to eat in socks. If shrimp ever needed a PR team, this would be it.

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

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Who knew quick dinners could be this easy? Air Fryer Shrimp brings a simple way to prepare a meal that feels like restaurant quality. The tender shrimp comes out perfectly cooked with a crispy texture. It’s a great option for nights when you want something easy but fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

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.

Fire up the grill for something special. Grilled Shrimp adds a slightly smoky flavor to those little seafood bites. Pair it with your favorite side, and it’s perfect for outdoor get-togethers. The cooking method gives it a subtle char that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

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.

Bringing comfort food to a new level, Shrimp and Grits offers a mix of creamy and hearty textures. It’s the kind of dish that feels right at home on your dining table. The shrimp really stands out in this Southern-inspired meal. Whether for brunch or dinner, it always feels right.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

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.

Skewers make dinner more fun and easier to handle. Grilled Shrimp Kabobs combine perfectly cooked shrimp with other flavorful components. They’re ideal for a quick barbecue or laid-back night. The tasty mix of ingredients is balanced on each stick.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

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.

If you’re looking for something bold, try Bang Bang Shrimp. It’s coated in a flavorful sauce that has just the right kick. Every bite is a great combo of crunchy texture and all-around goodness. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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 the takeout and make something fun today. Shrimp Burrito Bowls are packed with everything you need for a complete meal. With shrimp layered over fresh toppings and sides, it’s a well-rounded option. Grab a bowl and enjoy your meal on the go or at home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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.

For a lighter option, this one is refreshing yet filling. Mango Shrimp Salad balances sweetness with the shrimp’s bold taste. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner. The mix of flavors keeps it interesting with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

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.

Bring a bit of crunch to your plate with this one. Shrimp Toast is a bite-sized favorite that works as a snack or starter. The combination of crisp bread and shrimp creates an enjoyable contrast. It’s a simple way to add a little variety to your day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

Salad fans will love this blend of bold and creamy. Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing combines a unique twist with every forkful. The shrimp adds rich flavor while the dressing keeps it light. It’s a solid choice for meal prep or an easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

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.

If you’re in the mood for a warm meal, this dish hits the spot. Massaman Curry mixes shrimp with a flavorful sauce, perfect for pairing with rice. It’s a comforting dish that feels just right on any night. The shrimp soaks up every bit of the rich goodness.
Get the Recipe: Massaman 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.

Time to try something new for dinner. Sushi Bake turns classic sushi into a dish you can share with the whole family. Rolling isn’t needed here—just layer everything and enjoy. Every spoonful brings all the sushi flavors without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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, smoky spices give this meal its signature twist. Tandoori Shrimp is a flavorful choice that works well as an appetizer or main. The shrimp retains its tenderness while absorbing all the flavor. It’s great for anyone who loves a little kick in their meals.
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.

You don’t need a party to enjoy this classic. Shrimp Cocktail is all about pure shrimp flavor paired with a dipping sauce that shines on its own. Serve it cold for a refreshing starter or snack. It’s simple yet timeless for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

Ready for something rich and warm? Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry pairs shrimp with a creamy sauce that’s great with rice or noodles. The shrimp carries a lot of flavors here. It’s a go-to when you want something easy and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

Step up your sushi game with this option. Shrimp Tempura Roll offers the crunch of tempura shrimp wrapped in every bite. It’s a fun and filling way to enjoy homemade sushi. Perfect for a relaxed night with something special on your plate.
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.

Cooking doesn’t get simpler than this. Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot brings shrimp together with bold, creamy sauces in no time. It’s a lifesaver when you need something hearty but quick. Serve it up with your favorite side, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot

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.

Switch things up with this noodle dish. Thai Drunken Noodles combine shrimp with flavorful additions in a really fulfilling way. It’s a great option when you want something filling that’s still quick to prepare. Bold flavors make it stand out on any menu.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Shrimp Scampi

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

Simple and delicious, this one’s a crowd favorite. Shrimp Scampi balances richness with the briny flavor of shrimp in a way that works for any occasion. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is quick enough for busy nights. Pair it with bread or pasta for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

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.

Want something versatile? Shrimp Tacos let you pack shrimp into your favorite shells and add the toppings you like best. Quick and flavorful, they’re great for dinner or even lunch. Make it a taco night to remember with this option.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

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.

Soup lovers, this one’s for you. Tom Yum Soup blends shrimp with a warm broth that’s packed with flavor in every spoonful. It’s a lighter but filling option that works great for a dinner or starter. Perfect for days when you need something cozy but not too heavy.
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.

Take crispy and light to the next level. Shrimp Tempura is all about fried perfection with its irresistible crunch. It’s a classic you can enjoy on its own or as part of a larger meal. A good choice if you’re craving something crispy and fulfilling.
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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