Delicious, protein-packed, and oh-so-convenient, frozen shrimp are a staple in many home cooks’ pantries. But let’s be real – when you’re short on time or inspiration, it can be hard to come up with new and exciting ways to use them. That’s why we’ve gathered 18 quick and easy frozen shrimp recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic Scampi-style dishes to spicy tacos and Asian-inspired stir-fries, these recipes showcase the versatility of frozen shrimp. And the best part? They’re all easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough to serve at your next gathering. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student looking for a quick meal solution, or just someone who loves good food, you’ll find something on this list that will make your taste buds (and your belly) happy.
Stay tuned for the full recipe roundup!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
6. Once melted, add the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Elevate your taco game with these bold and flavorful Spicy Shrimp Tacos, bursting with succulent shrimp, crunchy slaw, and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cabbage (for slaw)
– Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
– Sliced radishes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, shredded cabbage, and chopped cilantro. Serve with sliced radishes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Brighten up your pasta night with this zesty and aromatic dish, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a tangy lemon-garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine with any remaining garlic oil. Simmer for 1 minute.
6. Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
7. Combine cooked shrimp, pasta, and lemon-garlic sauce in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
A tropical twist on classic shrimp, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with toasted coconut flakes and a tangy sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, unsweetened shredded coconut, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious shrimp stir-fry with colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and broccoli; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in snow peas, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); cook for an additional minute.
6. Return shrimp to the pan; stir-fry to combine with vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and flavorful vegetables for a mouthwatering Cajun-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet; stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Sriracha Shrimp
Add a sweet and spicy twist to your seafood with this easy-to-make Honey Sriracha Shrimp recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey-Sriracha mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious! This recipe combines flavorful shrimp with savory fried rice for a satisfying meal.
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 and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the 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. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
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, salt, and pepper to the rice. Stir-fry for another minute, until the flavors are well combined.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until everything is well mixed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Succulent shrimp smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a hint of cilantro for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
5. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and add them to the avocado mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Shrimp Quesadillas
Transform your lunch or dinner with this simple and delicious shrimp quesadilla recipe, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp, onion, and garlic; cook until the shrimp are pink and just done (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese.
4. Add about 1/4 cup of the cooked shrimp mixture on half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook the other side until also crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp Bowls
Get ready to devour a flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with succulent shrimp, savory teriyaki sauce, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, cook the shrimp according to your preference (grilled, sautéed, or boiled). Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
4. Toss the mixed vegetables with a tablespoon of sesame oil and cook until tender-crisp.
5. Assemble the bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by shrimp, teriyaki sauce, and vegetables.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
A classic comfort food dish that combines succulent shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a rich alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a creamy, cheesy package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fettuccine pasta, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together heavy cream and flour to make a roux, cooking over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and broccoli in the skillet with the alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Bang Bang Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Asian cuisine with this quick and delicious Bang Bang Shrimp recipe! This sweet and spicy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and stir to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
A classic Louisiana sandwich, this Shrimp Po’ Boy is a delicious twist on the traditional fried shrimp and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each shrimp in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Split hoagie rolls in half and toast until crispy.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried shrimp on the rolls, adding lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in. With succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and a hint of smokiness from the bacon, it’s a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the shrimp and heavy cream to the pot. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Fajitas
A classic Tex-Mex dish that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Shrimp Fajitas are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup sliced onions
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning (or taco seasoning blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 small flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, shrimp, and fajita seasoning; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the Fajitas: Place the shrimp mixture onto the tortillas and add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Shrimp and Grits
Savor the rich flavors of the South with this classic shrimp and grits dish, a staple of Lowcountry cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve shrimp over grits, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the ease and convenience of cooking with frozen shrimp! This collection of 18 quick and easy recipes showcases the versatility of this popular seafood ingredient. From classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi to international-inspired dishes like Spicy Shrimp Tacos and Teriyaki Shrimp Bowls, there’s something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta dish or a spicy stir-fry, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while saving time and effort. Get cooking with frozen shrimp today!
