Are you looking for a quick and easy way to add some protein-packed punch to your meals? Look no further than frozen shrimp! This convenient ingredient can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from classic comfort foods to international-inspired creations. In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple and delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of frozen shrimp.
From garlicky scampi to spicy skillets, creamy pastas to savory stir-fries, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for a fast weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next culinary adventure, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds.
So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the many delicious ways you can enjoy frozen shrimp!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a staple of seafood lovers everywhere, and for good reason – the combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. If using white wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice, add to skillet and simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked linguine to skillet and toss with garlic butter sauce.
7. Return shrimp to skillet and toss until coated.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp with spicy cajun seasonings and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes; simmer for 1 minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta
Brighten up your dinner with this zesty and flavorful Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta recipe. A perfect blend of citrus, herbs, and succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in white wine (if using) and let sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon herb sauce.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the snow peas and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for about 30 seconds.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Shrimp
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of coconut milk, curry powder, and aromatic spices, creating a delicious and quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this easy and flavorful recipe for shrimp tacos topped with a tangy lime crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, lime crema, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and savory shrimp stir-fry with this easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and salt. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish, shrimp fried rice is a simple yet flavorful meal that can be prepared quickly and easily. This recipe combines the crunch of shrimp with the savory flavor of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
5. Add the soy sauce and stir-fry for another minute, until the rice is well coated.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until everything is combined.
7. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich and creamy sauce, served over al dente fettuccine noodles. A comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked fettuccine noodles and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Toss until well combined.
7. Serve shrimp on top of pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, crunchy red onion, and a hint of citrus, making it perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. With its vibrant colors and zesty flavors, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove the shrimp from the heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled shrimp, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.
4. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Zoodles
This recipe combines the flavors of shrimp scampi with the ease and nutritional benefits of zucchini noodles. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the zucchinis for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Simmer for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve shrimp on top of zoodles, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
A classic New Orleans-inspired sandwich that combines succulent shrimp with crispy lettuce, tangy tomato, and creamy remoulade sauce, all wrapped up in a soft baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup remoulade sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns (or baguette slices)
– Lettuce and tomato for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on the bottom bun, followed by the cooked shrimp, lettuce, tomato, and top with another bun.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including marinating time)
Shrimp and Grits
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, a staple of Southern cuisine. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir the cooked grits into the shrimp mixture and add salt, pepper, and cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Shrimp Ceviche with Tortilla Chips
Fresh and flavorful, this shrimp ceviche recipe is perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack. With the crunch of tortilla chips adding texture to each bite, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup diced fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, onion, and cilantro.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled, with tortilla chips on the side for scooping up the ceviche.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
Add a tropical twist to your next barbecue or potluck with these easy-to-make shrimp and pineapple skewers. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this recipe is quick, flavorful, and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, and ginger.
3. Add shrimp and pineapple chunks to the bowl; toss to coat.
4. Thread shrimp and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Pad Thai
This classic Thai dish combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful stir-fry of vegetables, noodles, and savory sauce. This recipe serves 2-3 people and can be easily doubled or tripled for a larger crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, fish sauce (if using), and white pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked noodles, shrimp, and bean sprouts to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this zesty shrimp cocktail recipe, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a bold and spicy sauce. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add the shrimp to the sauce mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled with toothpicks or cocktail sticks, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a quick and easy appetizer that’s ready in under 15 minutes.
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A delicious and comforting soup perfect for any occasion, this Shrimp and Corn Chowder is a flavorful blend of succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced potatoes, corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and add shrimp. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the simplicity and deliciousness of frozen shrimp recipes! From classic garlic butter scampi to spicy Cajun skillet, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to impress. Try pairing shrimp with pasta, vegetables, or even tacos for a flavorful twist. Coconut curry shrimp and honey garlic stir-fry add an exotic touch, while creamy Alfredo and shrimp fried rice provide comforting indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner party, these 18 simple recipes have got you covered.
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