30 EASY SHRIMP DINNER RECIPES THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL LOVE

Looking for easy shrimp dinner recipes? Here are family-friendly shrimp meals, from creamy pastas and stir-fries to tacos, bowls and sheet pan dinners.

Shrimp might be the best weeknight protein there is.

It cooks in 2 to 3 minutes, it takes on any flavor you throw at it, and a bag of frozen shrimp in the freezer means dinner is always close.

Most are ready in 30 minutes or less, and many use just one pan.

Related Articles

• 30 Insanely Easy 10-Minute Meals for Busy Weeknights
• 25 Easy 20-Minute Stir-Fry Dinner Ideas Better Than Takeout
• 30 Easy Foil Packet Dinners for the Oven or Grill with No Cleanup
• 20 Easy Mac and Cheese Skillet Dinners the Whole Family Will Love
• Homemade Lemon Pepper Spaghetti Pasta with Creamy Sauce

SHRIMP DINNER RECIPES

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp

Juicy shrimp sizzled in butter with lots of garlic, lemon and parsley. It’s simple and ready in 10 minutes.

Serve it over rice, pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side and move to a plate.
4. Add the remaining butter, garlic and pepper flakes and cook 30 seconds, then add broth and lemon juice.
5. Return the shrimp, toss and finish with parsley.

2. Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Linguine tossed with garlicky shrimp in a bright lemon butter sauce made with chicken broth.

It’s a restaurant favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make on a weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz linguine
• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/3 cup parmesan
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine, saving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Heat the oil and 1 tbsp butter and cook the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side, then set aside.
3. Add the remaining butter, garlic and pepper flakes and cook 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the broth, lemon zest and juice and simmer 2 minutes.
5. Toss in the pasta, shrimp, parmesan and parsley, adding pasta water as needed.

3. Honey Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp glazed in a sticky, sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.

Kids love the sweet glaze. Serve it with rice and steamed broccoli for an easy family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
• Sesame seeds and green onions

Instructions:

1. Whisk the honey, soy sauce, garlic and ginger.
2. Marinate the shrimp in half the sauce for 15 minutes.
3. Sear the shrimp in oil 1 to 2 minutes per side.
4. Add the remaining sauce and cornstarch slurry and simmer 1 minute until glossy.
5. Top with sesame seeds and green onions.

4. Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Penne and spicy Cajun shrimp in a creamy parmesan sauce with tomatoes and peppers.

Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your family’s spice level.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne
• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup parmesan
• Parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne.
2. Toss the shrimp with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and sear in butter, then set aside.
3. Cook the pepper, tomatoes and garlic for 3 minutes.
4. Add the cream, broth, remaining seasoning and parmesan and simmer 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the pasta and shrimp and top with parsley.

5. Shrimp Fried Rice

Better-than-takeout fried rice with shrimp, scrambled eggs, peas and carrots.

Use day-old rice for the best texture. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and chopped
• 4 cups cold cooked rice
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok and cook the shrimp 2 minutes, then set aside.
2. Scramble the eggs and set aside.
3. Add the remaining oil, garlic and vegetables and cook 2 minutes.
4. Add the rice and fry 3 to 4 minutes without stirring too often.
5. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, shrimp, eggs and green onions.

6. Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw

Spiced shrimp tucked into warm tortillas with a crunchy cilantro lime slaw and creamy sauce.

Set everything out and let everyone build their own. Taco night always wins.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 10 small tortillas
• 3 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 2 limes
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
• 1 avocado

Instructions:

1. Toss the cabbage with cilantro, juice of 1 lime and a pinch of salt.
2. Mix the sour cream with sriracha and a squeeze of lime.
3. Season the shrimp with spices and salt.
4. Sear in oil 1 to 2 minutes per side.
5. Fill warm tortillas with slaw, shrimp, avocado and sauce.

7. Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

Shrimp in a garlic parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

Serve over pasta, rice or mashed potatoes. The sauce is too good to waste.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup parmesan
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Sear the seasoned shrimp in oil 1 to 2 minutes per side and set aside.
2. Melt the butter and cook garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute.
3. Add cream, broth, parmesan and Italian seasoning and simmer 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach until wilted.
5. Return the shrimp and warm through.

8. Shrimp Alfredo

Fettuccine and tender shrimp in a rich, homemade garlic parmesan Alfredo sauce.

It tastes like your favorite Italian restaurant and takes just 25 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• Parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine, saving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Cook the shrimp in 1 tbsp butter until pink and set aside.
3. Melt the remaining butter with garlic, then add cream and simmer 3 minutes.
4. Whisk in parmesan and nutmeg until smooth.
5. Toss with pasta and shrimp, loosening with pasta water.

9. Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp, peppers and onions roasted together on one pan with smoky fajita seasoning.

Dinner is ready in 20 minutes with almost no cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
• 1 lime
• 8 flour tortillas
• Sour cream, salsa and cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. Toss the peppers and onion with 1 tbsp oil and half the seasoning and roast 12 minutes.
3. Toss the shrimp with remaining oil and seasoning.
4. Add the shrimp to the pan and roast 6 to 8 minutes more.
5. Squeeze with lime and serve in warm tortillas.

10. Shrimp and Grits with Turkey Bacon

Creamy cheddar grits topped with Cajun shrimp in a savory sauce with crispy turkey bacon.

A Southern classic that works for a cozy dinner or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground or quick grits
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 green onions, sliced

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits in water or broth until thick, then stir in butter and cheddar.
2. Crisp the turkey bacon in a skillet and set aside.
3. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side.
4. Add garlic, broth and lemon juice and simmer 1 minute.
5. Spoon the shrimp and sauce over grits and top with turkey bacon and green onions.

11. Baked Coconut Shrimp

Shrimp coated in coconut and panko and baked until crispy, no deep frying needed.

Serve with sweet chili sauce for dipping. Kids think it’s a treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup panko
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Cooking spray
• Sweet chili sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Mix the coconut, panko and salt.
3. Dip each shrimp in flour, then egg, then the coconut mixture.
4. Arrange on the pan and spray with oil.
5. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

12. Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowls

Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet-spicy bang bang sauce, served over rice with cucumbers and slaw.

It’s a copycat restaurant favorite that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 egg
• Oil for frying or cooking spray
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp sriracha
• 4 cups cooked rice
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• Green onions

Instructions:

1. Mix the mayo, sweet chili sauce and sriracha.
2. Dip the shrimp in egg, then cornstarch.
3. Pan-fry or air fry at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until crisp.
4. Toss the hot shrimp with half the sauce.
5. Serve over rice with cucumber, cabbage, green onions and extra sauce.

13. Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli

Shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli sautéed in one pan with lemon, garlic and parmesan.

It’s light, healthy and on the table in 15 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup parmesan
• Pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil and cook the broccoli 4 minutes until bright green.
2. Add 2 tbsp broth, cover and steam 2 minutes, then push to the side.
3. Add butter, garlic and shrimp and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side.
4. Stir in remaining broth, lemon zest and juice.
5. Top with parmesan and pepper flakes.

14. Shrimp Lo Mein

Soft noodles stir-fried with shrimp, vegetables and a savory soy-based sauce.

It’s a takeout favorite you can make faster than the delivery would arrive.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz lo mein or spaghetti noodles
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups sliced cabbage
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snow peas
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• Green onions

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles and drain.
2. Whisk the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil and sugar.
3. Stir-fry the shrimp in 1 tbsp oil for 2 minutes and set aside.
4. Stir-fry the vegetables and garlic in the remaining oil for 3 minutes.
5. Add noodles, shrimp and sauce and toss for 1 minute.

15. Kung Pao Shrimp

Shrimp, peppers and peanuts in a sweet, tangy and slightly spicy kung pao sauce.

Leave out the dried chiles for younger kids. It’s still full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 6 dried red chiles (optional)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1/3 cup roasted peanuts
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp hoisin
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Toss the shrimp with 1 tbsp cornstarch.
2. Whisk the soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin, sugar and 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water.
3. Stir-fry the shrimp in oil until pink and set aside.
4. Stir-fry the chiles, pepper, zucchini, garlic and ginger for 2 minutes.
5. Add the sauce, shrimp and peanuts and toss until glossy.

16. Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

Shrimp, smoked beef sausage, baby potatoes and corn baked in foil packets with Old Bay butter.

Everyone gets their own packet and there’s nothing to wash afterward. They work on the grill too.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 package (12 oz) smoked beef sausage, sliced
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved and par-boiled
• 3 ears corn, cut into thirds
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F or a grill to medium-high.
2. Mix the butter, garlic and Old Bay.
3. Divide the shrimp, sausage, potatoes and corn between 4 large foil sheets.
4. Drizzle with butter, add lemon slices and seal tightly.
5. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or grill 12 to 15 minutes.

17. Teriyaki Shrimp Bowls

Shrimp glazed in homemade teriyaki sauce over rice with broccoli, edamame and carrots.

Great for meal prep, and the sauce takes just 5 minutes to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp oil
• 4 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broccoli, steamed
• 1 cup edamame
• Sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Simmer the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic and ginger for 2 minutes.
2. Stir in the cornstarch slurry until thick.
3. Sear the shrimp in oil 1 to 2 minutes per side.
4. Pour in half the sauce and toss.
5. Serve over rice with vegetables and drizzle with the remaining sauce.

18. Shrimp Creole

Shrimp simmered in a spicy tomato sauce with the Louisiana trinity of onion, celery and bell pepper.

Spoon it over white rice for a hearty New Orleans-style dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tsp Creole seasoning
• 2 bay leaves
• Cooked white rice

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter and cook the onion, celery and pepper for 6 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in the tomatoes, sauce, broth, Creole seasoning and bay leaves.
4. Simmer 20 minutes until thickened.
5. Add the shrimp and cook 3 to 4 minutes, then serve over rice.

19. Shrimp Pad Thai

Rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, egg and bean sprouts in a sweet and tangy tamarind sauce, topped with peanuts.

It’s easier than you’d think, and you can control the spice for kids.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz flat rice noodles
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp oil
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions
• 3 tbsp tamarind paste or lime juice
• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• Lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Soak the noodles in hot water according to the package and drain.
2. Whisk the tamarind, fish sauce and brown sugar.
3. Stir-fry the shrimp and garlic in oil for 2 minutes, then push aside and scramble the eggs.
4. Add the noodles and sauce and toss 2 minutes.
5. Fold in sprouts and green onions and top with peanuts and lime.

20. Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp

Bite-size shrimp in a crunchy seasoned coating, air fried until golden.

Serve them in baskets with fries and dipping sauces for a fun family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs small shrimp, peeled
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups panko
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Cooking spray
• Cocktail sauce, ranch or honey mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. Mix the panko with paprika, garlic powder and salt.
3. Dip the shrimp in flour, egg, then panko.
4. Spray with oil and air fry in a single layer for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking halfway.
5. Serve hot with dipping sauces.

21. Shrimp Quesadillas

Crispy tortillas stuffed with seasoned shrimp, peppers and lots of melted cheese.

Cut them into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole and sour cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, chopped
• 1 tsp taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese
• 6 flour tortillas
• Salsa and sour cream

Instructions:

1. Cook the pepper and onion in oil for 4 minutes.
2. Add the shrimp and taco seasoning and cook 2 minutes.
3. Sprinkle cheese on half of each tortilla, add the filling and more cheese, then fold.
4. Cook in a dry skillet 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and melted.
5. Cut into wedges and serve.

22. Coconut Shrimp Curry

Shrimp simmered in a mild, creamy coconut curry sauce with tomatoes and spinach.

It’s cozy and fragrant without being too spicy for kids. Serve with rice or naan.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp ginger
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 lime
• Cilantro
• Cooked rice

Instructions:

1. Cook the onion in oil for 5 minutes, then add garlic, ginger and curry powder for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the coconut milk and tomatoes and simmer 10 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook 3 minutes until pink.
4. Stir in spinach until wilted.
5. Finish with lime juice and cilantro and serve over rice.

23. Shrimp Tortellini in Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

Cheese tortellini and shrimp in a silky lemon garlic cream sauce with spinach.

Store-bought tortellini makes it a 20-minute dinner that feels fancy.

Ingredients:

• 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup parmesan
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions:

1. Cook the tortellini and drain.
2. Cook the shrimp in 1 tbsp butter until pink and set aside.
3. Melt the remaining butter with garlic, then add cream, broth and parmesan.
4. Simmer 3 minutes, then stir in lemon zest, juice and spinach.
5. Add the tortellini and shrimp and toss.

24. Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwiches

Crispy cornmeal-crusted shrimp piled into soft rolls with lettuce, tomato and a tangy remoulade.

It’s a messy, delicious New Orleans classic made at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Oil for frying
• 4 hoagie or French rolls
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1 tbsp dijon
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• 1 tbsp pickle relish

Instructions:

1. Mix the mayo, dijon, hot sauce and relish for the remoulade.
2. Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 10 minutes.
3. Dredge in cornmeal, flour and Cajun seasoning.
4. Fry in 350°F oil for 2 to 3 minutes until golden.
5. Fill toasted rolls with remoulade, lettuce, tomato and shrimp.

25. Baked Shrimp Parmesan

Shrimp baked under a crispy parmesan and garlic breadcrumb topping with a little marinara.

Serve over spaghetti for a seafood twist on chicken parm.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup marinara
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• Basil
• Cooked spaghetti

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Spread the marinara in a baking dish and arrange the shrimp on top.
3. Mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan, butter and garlic.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and then the crumb mixture over the shrimp.
5. Bake 10 to 12 minutes and serve over spaghetti with basil.

26. Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Chili-lime shrimp over cilantro lime rice with black beans, corn, salsa and avocado.

Let everyone build their own bowl with their favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 lime
• 1 tbsp oil
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, warmed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 avocado
• Shredded cheese and sour cream

Instructions:

1. Stir the rice with cilantro and juice of half a lime.
2. Season the shrimp with chili powder, cumin and salt.
3. Sear in oil 1 to 2 minutes per side and squeeze with lime.
4. Divide rice into bowls.
5. Top with shrimp, beans, corn, salsa, avocado, cheese and sour cream.

27. One-Pan Shrimp and Orzo with Spinach

Orzo simmered right in the pan with broth, garlic and lemon, then finished with shrimp, spinach and feta.

Everything cooks in one skillet, so cleanup is easy.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta
• 1/4 cup parmesan

Instructions:

1. Sear the shrimp in 1 tbsp oil and set aside.
2. Cook the onion and garlic in the remaining oil for 3 minutes.
3. Add the orzo and toast 1 minute, then add broth.
4. Simmer 10 to 12 minutes, stirring often, until tender.
5. Stir in lemon, spinach, parmesan and shrimp and top with feta.

28. Shrimp Jambalaya with Smoked Turkey Sausage

Shrimp, smoked turkey sausage and rice cooked together in a spicy tomato broth with peppers and onion.

It’s a one-pot Louisiana favorite that feeds a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled
• 1 package (13 oz) smoked turkey sausage, sliced
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Green onions

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage in oil and set aside.
2. Cook the onion, pepper and celery for 5 minutes, then add garlic.
3. Stir in the rice, tomatoes, broth and Cajun seasoning and bring to a boil.
4. Cover and simmer 20 minutes.
5. Stir in the shrimp and sausage, cover 5 minutes until pink, and top with green onions.

29. Sweet and Sour Shrimp

Shrimp, pineapple and bell peppers in a bright, sticky sweet and sour sauce.

Serve over rice for a family-friendly takeout night at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 bell pepper, cubed
• 1/2 onion, cubed
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup pineapple juice

Instructions:

1. Toss the shrimp with cornstarch and sear in oil until pink, then set aside.
2. Stir-fry the pepper and onion for 2 minutes.
3. Add pineapple, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar and soy sauce.
4. Stir in the slurry and simmer until thick.
5. Toss the shrimp back in and serve over rice.

30. Garlic Shrimp Mac and Cheese

Creamy stovetop mac and cheese loaded with garlicky sautéed shrimp.

It’s comfort food that both kids and adults get excited about.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz cavatappi or elbows
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar
• 1 cup Gruyère or mozzarella
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta and drain.
2. Sauté the shrimp with 1 tbsp butter and half the garlic until pink, then set aside.
3. Melt the remaining butter with remaining garlic, whisk in flour, then milk.
4. Simmer until thick and stir in cheeses and paprika.
5. Fold in the pasta and shrimp and top with parsley.

Kitchen Tools for Quick Shrimp Dinners

A few simple tools make cooking shrimp faster and easier, especially on busy weeknights.

• 12-Inch Nonstick Skillet: Big enough to sear shrimp in one layer without crowding.
• Carbon Steel Wok: Great for fried rice, lo mein and kung pao shrimp.
• Shrimp Deveiner Tool: Peels and deveins shell-on shrimp in seconds.
• Air Fryer: Makes crispy popcorn and coconut shrimp with very little oil.
• Rimmed Sheet Pans: For sheet pan fajitas and baked coconut shrimp.

With a bag of shrimp in the freezer, a fast family dinner is never far away. Start with garlic butter shrimp or the burrito bowls if your kids are new to seafood.

Save this list for the next time you need a quick dinner idea.