What to make with shrimp? I get it, it can be overwhelming with all the options out there! But don’t worry, friend, I’ve got you covered. I’m about to spill all my favorite secrets on the most mouth-watering, easy-to-make shrimp dishes that’ll make your taste buds do the happy dance. From frozen shrimp recipes to leftover shrimp ideas, we’re about to explore the wonderful world of seafood inspiration. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s get this shrimp party started!
Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – it’s ridiculously easy and packed with flavor! I mean, who doesn’t love a good what to make with shrimp challenge?
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pasta of your choice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions – don’t overcook it, we want that perfect al dente texture!
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the garlic. Saute for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re nice and pink.
4. Add the white wine and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce has slightly reduced.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp scampi pasta is a quick and easy solution for a weeknight dinner. The combination of garlic, butter, and white wine creates a rich and indulgent sauce that’ll make you wonder how something so simple can taste so amazing. Plus, it’s a great way to use up frozen shrimp – just thaw and cook!
Shrimp Tacos
Who says tacos are only for Tuesdays? These shrimp tacos are a game-changer, and I’m obsessed!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 6 tacos shells
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re nice and pink.
3. Warm the tacos shells according to the package instructions.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a few shrimp in each shell, followed by your desired toppings.
Why You’ll Love It:
These shrimp tacos are a flavor bomb waiting to happen! The combination of lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño creates a zesty and refreshing flavor profile that’s perfect for a light and easy dinner. Plus, you can customize with your favorite toppings – it’s a seafood inspiration like no other!
Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry
Stir-fries are a staple in my kitchen, and this shrimp and veggie version is a favorite. It’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp and veggies!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed veggies and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re nice and pink.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and veggie stir-fry is a quick and easy solution for a busy night. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and mixed veggies creates a savory and umami flavor profile that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp and veggies – just add your favorite ingredients and stir-fry away!
Shrimp and Cheese Quesadilla
Because everything is better with cheese, am I right? This shrimp and cheese quesadilla is a game-changer!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work great)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
- 2 large tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the shrimp, cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Place one tortilla in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Spoon the shrimp and cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the other half to enclose.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and cheese quesadilla is a comfort food dream come true! The combination of melted cheese, spicy jalapeño, and succulent shrimp creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp – just add your favorite cheese and tortilla, and you’re good to go!
Shrimp and Bacon Pasta Bake
Because everything is better with bacon, am I right? This shrimp and bacon pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 cup pasta of your choice
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions – don’t overcook it, we want that perfect al dente texture!
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, bacon, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese and parsley.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and bacon pasta bake is a hearty and satisfying solution for a chilly night. The combination of crispy bacon, succulent shrimp, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s a great way to use up frozen shrimp – just thaw and bake!
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and easy lunch or dinner. It’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp and veggies!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocado and lemon juice.
3. Add the cooked shrimp to the avocado mixture and stir to combine.
4. Spoon the shrimp and avocado mixture over the mixed greens and serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and avocado salad is a refreshing and healthy solution for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and tangy lemon juice creates a flavor profile that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp – just add your favorite greens and veggies, and you’re good to go!
Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto is a decadent treat that’s perfect for a special occasion. It’s a great way to use up frozen shrimp – just thaw and cook!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the mixed mushrooms and cook until they’re tender and fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the white wine and cook until the liquid is almost completely absorbed.
5. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in the cooked shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and mushroom risotto is a rich and indulgent solution for a special occasion. The combination of creamy Arborio rice, succulent shrimp, and earthy mushrooms creates a flavor profile that’s both decadent and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up frozen shrimp – just thaw and cook!
Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Shells
These stuffed shells are a fun twist on traditional pasta dishes. It’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp and veggies!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 package jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions – don’t overcook them, we want that perfect al dente texture!
3. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the cooked shrimp to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the shrimp and cheese mixture, and place in a baking dish.
6. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and spinach stuffed shells is a creative and delicious solution for a weeknight dinner. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, succulent shrimp, and earthy spinach creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp – just add your favorite cheese and pasta, and you’re good to go!
Shrimp and Veggie Skewers
These colorful skewers are a fun and easy solution for a quick dinner or appetizer. It’s a great way to use up frozen shrimp – just thaw and grill!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the shrimp and mixed veggies onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and the veggies are tender.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and veggie skewers is a healthy and flavorful solution for a quick dinner or appetizer. The combination of succulent shrimp, colorful veggies, and tangy garlic creates a flavor profile that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up frozen shrimp – just thaw and grill!
Shrimp and Egg Breakfast Burrito
This breakfast burrito is a game-changer for a quick and easy morning meal. It’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp and veggies!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work great)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
- 2 large tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the eggs. Scramble until cooked through.
3. Add the cooked shrimp, shredded cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño to the eggs and stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon the egg and shrimp mixture onto the tortillas and serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love It:
This shrimp and egg breakfast burrito is a quick and easy solution for a morning meal. The combination of scrambled eggs, succulent shrimp, and spicy jalapeño creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover shrimp – just add your favorite cheese and tortilla, and you’re good to go!
In conclusion, these 10 creative what to make with shrimp ideas will inspire you to get cooking and explore the wonderful world of seafood. From frozen shrimp recipes to leftover shrimp ideas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy dinner or a decadent treat, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, go ahead and get creative with shrimp – your taste buds will thank you!
