After a day that felt longer than a family reunion with no Wi-Fi, eating became less about impressing and more about survival. That’s where shrimp came in, quick, dependable, and not trying to start a conversation. With 19 low-effort ways to get it on the plate, dinner stopped being a decision and became a relief. It was the edible equivalent of putting your phone on Do Not Disturb and hiding under a blanket.
Bang Bang Shrimp
This shrimp gets coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that makes it hard to stop eating. Bang Bang Shrimp balances heat and richness to create something unforgettable. It’s the kind of dish you grab when you’re craving something bold and exciting. You’ll find yourself wanting seconds before you even finish the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp
Thai Drunken Noodles
Loaded with shrimp and packed with bold flavors, Thai Drunken Noodles combine noodles with just the right kick of heat. It’s perfect for anyone who appreciates something a little different for dinner. The shrimp adds a nice texture that works well with the mix of noodles and sauce. You’ll want this on days when you’re tired but still need a solid, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles
Shrimp and Grits
Smooth grits paired with tender shrimp create a rich and comforting plate. Shrimp and Grits feels like the ultimate comfort food you didn’t even know you needed. It’s simple yet fulfilling, hitting all the right notes for a busy day. Great for eating when you just want something hearty without thinking too much.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry
Shrimp swims in a creamy coconut base with a flavor that keeps things interesting. Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry makes for a quick dinner that feels like it came from a restaurant. You get a mix of richness and just the right kick, making it hard to resist. It’s perfect for ending the day on a delicious note that doesn’t demand much from you.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry
Grilled Shrimp
Sometimes the simplest option packs the most flavor. Grilled Shrimp is all about achieving a smokiness that takes the shrimp up a notch. Quick, easy, and satisfying—it’s a go-to for those who want something light but loaded with flavor. Perfect for the days when you want your protein without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp
Tandoori Shrimp
Shrimp gets coated with a mix of bold spices that makes every bite pop. Tandoori Shrimp brings the kind of flavors that stand out without being overwhelming. It’s different, and that’s part of its appeal—it doesn’t taste like your average shrimp dish. Great for when you feel like trying something outside the usual menu.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp
Shrimp Burrito Bowls
Shrimp gets tossed into a bowl that’s a meal all on its own. Shrimp Burrito Bowls mix protein, grains, and veggies, giving every bite a balance that feels complete. It’s filling but doesn’t weigh you down, which is exactly what you want after a long, busy day. The bowl format makes it easy to grab, enjoy, and move on.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Shrimp adds a smoky edge to a light dish that doesn’t lack flavor. Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing hits that sweet spot between healthy and hearty. The dressing ties everything together without overshadowing the bold shrimp flavors. You’ll appreciate this if you’re looking for a fresh twist on dinner.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Massaman Curry
Shrimp sits in a rich, slightly sweet sauce that’s unforgettable. Massaman Curry creates a mix of creamy and complex flavors for when you want something different but still easy. It’s filling and works well on days when you’re too tired to feel adventurous but need something warm. Makes you wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Tender shrimp paired with pasta that’s rich and saucy is a dinner winner. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is perfect when you’re in the mood for something indulgent but not complicated. It works whether you want a quick dinner for yourself or something to impress. You’ll see why people keep coming back to it.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Sushi Bake
Shrimp layered into a dish that gives sushi vibes without rolling any rolls. Sushi Bake is easy, fun, and hits all the right flavors you want in a comforting seafood dish. It’s great for when you want the taste of sushi without any of the serious prep work. This is one of those meals where you grab seconds without thinking twice.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake
Mango Shrimp Salad
Shrimp and mango bring a mix of refreshing flavors to a plate. Mango Shrimp Salad doesn’t feel heavy, making it ideal for a night when you need something light yet filling. It’s got a balance that keeps you interested without overpowering you. Great for keeping dinner simple while still feeling rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad
Tom Yum Soup
Shrimp in a warm, tangy broth hits the spot when you want something different. Tom Yum Soup makes for a cozy but flavorful option after a busy day. It’s bold without being heavy, and the shrimp fits perfectly with the mix of flavors. If you’ve had a tough day, this soup feels like a quick win.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup
Shrimp Toast
Shrimp sits on crispy bread for something you can eat with your hands. Shrimp Toast works when you’re in the mood for a snack-style meal that doesn’t take long. It’s comforting and feels just fancy enough to make a busy day feel a little special. Perfect for eating on the couch, plate in hand.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast
Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp paired with a dipping sauce is a classic for a reason. Shrimp Cocktail doesn’t need much introduction—it’s simple but always gets the job done. Great for those nights when you don’t want to think too hard about dinner but still want something enjoyable. Sometimes, basic and convenient is exactly what you need.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot
A fast way to combine shrimp with a creamy sauce that feels like takeout without the wait. Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot handles busy nights with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s easy to throw together and makes you wish you had more leftovers for the next day. Definitely works when you’re low on energy but still want a good meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Coconut Curry Instant Pot
Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp changed up taco night with something you’ll want to make again. Shrimp Tacos bring a fresh, flavorful option that feels fun without being hard to make. They’re easy, flexible, and make dinner feel less like work on a busy day. Adding these to your rotation makes taco night way more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp tossed in a buttery sauce works well after a full day. Shrimp Scampi is one of those dishes where less is more, letting the simple mix of shrimp and sauce shine. It’s quick, comforting, and feels special enough for when you want dinner to feel slightly upgraded without much effort. You’ll love how simple it is without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi
Air Fryer Shrimp
Quick, crispy shrimp is exactly what this delivers. Air Fryer Shrimp takes minimal effort and gets you something that feels restaurant-quality in half the time. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t lack flavor—a perfect everyday meal. Throw it together and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp.
