13 Quick Shrimp Recipes Perfect for Lunch or Dinner

Shrimp is a quick-cooking protein that makes lunch or dinner feel effortless without losing flavor. It takes just minutes on the stove or grill, absorbs sauces beautifully, and matches with everything from pasta to rice or fresh greens. Whether you want something light and bright, spicy and bold, or rich and comforting, shrimp delivers. Here are 13 easy shrimp recipes that fit into a busy day while still leaving you fully satisfied. Quick prep, big payoff. Always delicious.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a recipe that proves simple is often best. Shrimp seared quickly in a skillet with butter, garlic, and parsley develop rich flavor in minutes. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness, balancing the richness of the sauce. Crusty bread makes it perfect for dipping, or you can serve it with rice or pasta. This dish feels indulgent but is effortless, making it an ideal option for both busy weeknights and relaxed dinners at home.

2. Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Shrimp scampi pasta combines speed with elegance, making it a dish that feels special without being complicated. Shrimp are cooked in garlic, olive oil, and white wine before being tossed with pasta and finished with lemon juice. Red pepper flakes add gentle heat while parsley brightens the flavor. The entire dish comes together in under 20 minutes, yet delivers restaurant-quality taste. It’s a versatile recipe, equally suited for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.

3. Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp fried rice is a quick and satisfying dish that works for both lunch and dinner. Leftover rice is stir-fried with shrimp, eggs, and colorful vegetables, then seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil for depth. The shrimp adds sweetness that balances the savory flavors, while scallions bring freshness. It cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy, and the recipe is endlessly adaptable with whatever vegetables you have. It’s a complete meal that comes together fast and always satisfies.

4. Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos are fresh, flavorful, and easy to customize. Shrimp can be grilled or sautéed with chili, cumin, and paprika, then tucked into warm tortillas. Add crunchy slaw, avocado slices, and a drizzle of tangy sauce for balance. A squeeze of lime brings everything together. These tacos are fun to assemble, quick to cook, and endlessly versatile. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, casual lunches, or even entertaining. In just minutes, you’ll have a bright, colorful meal full of flavor.

5. Shrimp Stir-Fry

A shrimp stir-fry delivers bold flavors and plenty of vegetables in record time. Shrimp cook alongside broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas before being tossed in a garlic and ginger soy sauce. Served with rice or noodles, it makes a filling and balanced meal. The beauty is flexibility—you can use whatever produce is on hand. Everything cooks in one pan, keeping cleanup simple. It’s quick, colorful, and perfect for nights when you want something fresh, fast, and satisfying.

6. Shrimp Caesar Salad

Shrimp Caesar salad is a classic with a twist that transforms it into a full meal. Shrimp are seasoned and seared until golden, then added to crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons. The shrimp adds satisfying protein without making the dish heavy, while the creamy dressing ties everything together. It’s quick to prepare, works well for lunch or dinner, and proves that salads can be hearty, refreshing, and full of bold flavors.

7. Coconut Shrimp

Coconut shrimp is sweet, crunchy, and surprisingly quick to make. Shrimp are coated in shredded coconut mixed with breadcrumbs, then baked or fried until golden brown. The result is crisp outside with tender shrimp inside. Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or mango for a tropical touch. While it tastes like something special, the cooking is straightforward and fast. Coconut shrimp works as an appetizer or main dish and is always a hit at the table.

8. Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp pad Thai brings takeout flavors into your kitchen in less than 30 minutes. Rice noodles are stir-fried with shrimp, eggs, and vegetables, then tossed in a tangy sauce made with tamarind, lime, and fish sauce. Crushed peanuts add crunch while herbs like cilantro brighten the dish. It’s satisfying without being heavy, and easy to customize to taste. This recipe makes a fast, flavorful lunch or dinner that feels like a treat without the wait for delivery.

9. Shrimp Soup

Shrimp soup is light but comforting, perfect when you want something warming without heaviness. Shrimp simmer in a broth flavored with garlic, ginger, and fresh vegetables. Lime or chili can be added for extra brightness or heat. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for weeknights. The result is nourishing and flavorful, whether served as a starter or a main course. This recipe shows shrimp can shine in simple, cozy bowls that feel satisfying and fresh.

10. Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich

The shrimp po’ boy is a New Orleans classic that comes together quickly at home. Shrimp are seasoned, lightly breaded, and fried until crisp, then piled into a baguette with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and creamy remoulade sauce. The contrast of crunchy shrimp with soft bread and tangy sauce makes every bite satisfying. It feels indulgent but cooks fast enough for a weeknight. This sandwich is hearty, bold, and perfect for when you want a meal with character.

11. Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp skewers are simple yet flavorful, perfect for grilling or broiling. Shrimp are marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs, then threaded onto skewers for even cooking. They cook in just a few minutes, delivering juicy results with a smoky edge. Serve them with rice, grilled vegetables, or salad for a balanced meal. These skewers are versatile enough for a quick dinner yet festive enough for a cookout, proving shrimp can be both effortless and impressive.

12. Lemon Herb Shrimp

Lemon herb shrimp is a light, bright recipe that highlights fresh flavors. Shrimp are tossed in olive oil, garlic, and herbs like parsley or thyme, then sautéed or grilled quickly. A generous squeeze of lemon balances the richness and makes the dish vibrant. Serve with vegetables, pasta, or rice for a complete meal. This recipe is elegant yet easy, perfect for when you want something refreshing. It’s proof that quick cooking can deliver satisfying and impressive results.

13. Shrimp Quesadillas

Shrimp quesadillas are cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavor. Shrimp are cooked with onions, peppers, and spices before being layered with cheese inside tortillas. Everything is pan-fried until golden outside and melty inside. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. They’re customizable, quick to assemble, and great for using leftover vegetables. Shrimp quesadillas are a fun way to switch up taco night and make an easy meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready fast.