16 Quick Shrimp Recipes That Beat Takeout Every Time

Shrimp is one of those ingredients that’s quick to cook, endlessly versatile, and packed with flavor. From weeknight dinners to meal prep favorites, these recipes show just how easy it is to turn simple shrimp into satisfying meals that feel special. Whether you’re craving creamy pasta, zesty stir fry, or light and fresh salads, this roundup has something for every mood and every night of the week.

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

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Shrimp are lightly battered and tossed with a sweet, creamy sauce. Candied walnuts add crunch and contrast. The sauce clings to every piece for a rich finish. It is a playful take on a restaurant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Meal Prep Cajun Shrimp and Veggies

Shrimp are seasoned with bold Cajun spices. Vegetables roast quickly alongside for color and crunch. This recipe works well for making multiple portions in advance. Every bite has a smoky, zesty flavor.
Get the Recipe: Meal Prep Cajun Shrimp and Veggies

Chimichurri Shrimp

Shrimp are marinated with a bright, herb-forward sauce. The garlic and parsley blend enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. Quick cooking ensures they stay tender. It is vibrant and aromatic on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Chimichurri Shrimp

Air Fryer Blackened Shrimp

Shrimp are coated in a smoky spice rub and crisped in the air fryer. The method keeps them juicy while adding a charred edge. It is fast and flavorful. Each bite has a bold, slightly smoky finish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Blackened Shrimp

Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs

Shrimp and eggs come together for a spicy, savory appetizer. Cajun seasoning adds warmth and depth. The creamy filling contrasts with tender shrimp on top. It is a bite-sized treat with a punch.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp are cooked gently in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Fettuccine or pasta carries the sauce evenly. The dish is indulgent without being complicated. Shrimp add richness and texture to every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Juicy shrimp are paired with a bright tomato sauce. Pasta soaks up the flavorful liquid. Fresh herbs enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. It is simple but satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

EASY Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice (Homemade Recipe!)

Shrimp and chicken cook quickly with rice and vegetables. Eggs scramble in for added texture. Soy sauce and seasonings bring everything together. This one-pan dish is hearty and fast.
Get the Recipe: EASY Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice (Homemade Recipe!)

Shrimp Salad

Shrimp add protein and flavor to a crisp bed of greens. Vegetables and dressing balance the plate. The shrimp are tender and lightly seasoned. It is fresh, bright, and simple.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Salad

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Shrimp top bowls filled with rice, beans, and vegetables. Salsa or sauce adds flavor and moisture. Each element comes together in a balanced bite. It is a customizable meal for any day.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Shrimp Yaki Udon Noodles

Shrimp are tossed with thick udon noodles and vegetables. The sauce coats noodles evenly. Quick stir frying keeps shrimp tender. The dish has both chew and flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Yaki Udon Noodles

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp are crisped in the air fryer and coated with a creamy, spicy sauce. The sauce balances sweet, tangy, and heat notes. It is quick, crunchy, and indulgent. Each shrimp carries bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp Pad Thai

Close-up of a fork lifting noodles with shrimp, surrounded by more shrimp, noodles, chopped peanuts, and green onions, with a lime wedge on the side. — Shrimp Pad Thai. Photo credit: All The Noodles.

Shrimp are combined with rice noodles, peanuts, and vegetables. Tamarind or sauce brings tangy-sweet notes. Eggs scramble in to add richness. This classic noodle dish is fast and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp and Corn Bisque

A white bowl filled with creamy, orange-colored soup, garnished with small pieces of chopped herbs, sits on a table next to a spoon and a striped napkin. — Shrimp and Corn Bisque. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp add a delicate seafood flavor to a creamy, slightly sweet corn base. The bisque is smooth and comforting. Corn kernels provide a bit of texture. Each spoonful is rich and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Easy General Tso Shrimp Stir Fry

Shrimp are coated in a tangy-sweet sauce with vegetables. Quick cooking keeps them tender. The sauce clings to shrimp and veggies alike. It is a fast, takeout-style meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Easy General Tso Shrimp Stir Fry

Instant Pot Shrimp

A bowl of cooked shrimp garnished with chopped herbs sits on a wooden surface beside salt and pepper shakers. — Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Shrimp cook in minutes in the Instant Pot. Broth, seasoning, or sauce infuses them with flavor quickly. The result is tender shrimp with minimal hands-on time. It works for soups, pastas, or bowls.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp