18 Easy Shrimp Recipes

by Brenda Score on March 13, 2023 (updated June 29, 2023)

These flavorful shrimp recipes are simple to make and guaranteed to impress! From ceviche and shrimp cocktail to tempura and air fryer shrimp, there’s a shrimp recipe here for every occasion.

jumbo shrimp that is charred from grill, with fresh lime wedges

The Best Shrimp Recipes

There’s no denying that I love shrimp. I have tons of shrimp recipes on this site and my family enjoys cooking up a shrimp dinner at least once a week. It’s one of the quickest, easiest ways to get a protein-packed meal on the table in very little time.

If you’re looking for easy ways to cook up a tasty shrimp meal, keep reading! We’ll learn all about shrimp in general (so you can select the very best ones at the store), and then we’ll talk recipes. From air fryer shrimp, to baked shrimp mac & cheese, to MY FAVORITE margarita grilled shrimp. Add some tartar sauce on the side and I’m in culinary heaven.

What Is Shrimp?

Shrimp is a type of seafood known for its delicate and flavorful taste. Specifically, it’s a crustacean in the shellfish family known for its flexible abdomen.

Shrimp are typically found in both saltwater and freshwater environments around the world. They have a distinct elongated body with a thin exoskeleton, ten legs, and a long, segmented tail. In terms of size, they range from tiny to several inches long.

Are Shrimp and Prawns The Same?

Shrimp and prawns are two terms often used interchangeably, as they look and taste so alike. Yet even though they are both decapods, shrimp and prawns are two different animals. There are several anatomical differences between the two, including how they reproduce. But I’m mostly concerned about what they taste like and how to cook with them!

Lucky for all of us shrimp lovers, we can use shrimp and prawns interchangeably. They have similar flavor and texture, and behave the same when cooked.

For me, I 95% of the time use shrimp. It’s just those times when I’m looking for an extra special meal that I’ll seek out prawns – as prawns can have an especially large size. They have a slightly sweeter flavor, too, which is lovely. But, of course, prawns usually cost more.

Overhead view of a bowl of shrimp ceviche

Is Shrimp Good For You?

In general, yes, shrimp are good to eat. Shrimp are low in carbs and calories, and have next to zero saturated fat. They’re also packed with nutrients like copper, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and iron.

And shrimp are high in protein. Besides their flavor and texture, knowing that their protein will fill me up without feeling heavy – this is a top qualifier for me. They’re the perfect thing to cook up when I’m looking for a flavorful and filling meal.

Tips for Buying Shrimp At The Store

Wondering how to pick out the best shrimp at the grocery store? Here are a few tips:

Frozen is just fine! If you’re in an area that’s not by the coast, you can buy frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp. We do this ALL THE TIME. In fact, sometimes the frozen shrimp is “fresher” than the shrimp sitting out on ice (here in landlocked Minnesota, most of the shrimp sitting on ice has already been frozen anyway), as it’s frozen at peak freshness.
Avoid any funky smelling shrimp. When buying fresh shrimp, avoid any funky smells. If you detect any smell of ammonia, that’s a sign that bacteria is growing on the shrimp and it’s no longer fresh or good. Shrimp should smell fresh and clean, like the sea. Anything “fishy” smelling is past its prime.
Avoid any that feel slimy. Similarly, if the shrimp or their shells look slimy or feel soft, skip those.
Pay attention to your recipe needs. There are many different sizes of shrimp and you can buy them raw, cooked, peeled, tail on/off, deveined, etc. Some recipes like soups and chowders are best with smaller shrimp while others require larger shrimp, so always check your recipe before heading to the store.

How Long Does Shrimp Last in the Fridge?

Fresh raw shrimp can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s important to keep the shrimp properly refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to maintain its freshness and quality. Store it in a sealed container or airtight bag to prevent any odors from transferring to other foods.

Can I Freeze Shrimp?

Yes! If you’re unable to use the shrimp within a couple of days, you can also freeze it for longer storage. When properly stored, shrimp can last in the freezer for about 3 months. Freeze the shrimp flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then once they are solid, transfer the frozen shrimp to an airtight, freezer-safe container. Label the package with the date of freezing for easy reference.

When you’re ready to use the frozen shrimp, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria. Once thawed, consume the shrimp within 1 day for the best taste and texture.