Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook with frozen shrimp? Look no further! Frozen shrimp can be a convenient and affordable protein option, but it’s often overlooked because people don’t know how to prepare it. However, when cooked correctly, frozen shrimp can be just as tasty and tender as fresh shrimp.
In this article, we’ll show you 18 quick-cooked frozen shrimp recipes that are perfect for busy home cooks. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Creamy Shrimp Alfredo to international-inspired recipes like Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta and Coconut Curry Shrimp, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste.
Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They all require minimal prep time and can be cooked in 30 minutes or less. So go ahead, give these shrimp recipes a try, and discover the convenience and deliciousness of cooking with frozen shrimp!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe serves 2-3 people, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until melted.
6. Add the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, until slightly reduced.
7. Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with crusty bread, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Add a kick of flavor to your pasta dish with this Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. This spicy and savory dish combines succulent shrimp with linguine, peppers, and a hint of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, red bell pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful shrimp stir-fry, infused with the tanginess of lemon and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet, leaving the garlic behind.
5. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
8. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Curry Shrimp
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic Coconut Curry Shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. This dish combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the spicy warmth of curry powder, all wrapped up in succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add shrimp, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt; cook 2-3 minutes or until pink.
4. Pour in coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful shrimp skewers, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup honey
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad featuring succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, avocado, and red onion.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in no time.
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo
Get ready to savor a rich and indulgent pasta dish with this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo recipe, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a decadent garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, whisk together flour and heavy cream to make a roux. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Add cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines succulent shrimp, crispy tortillas, and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing a few grilled shrimp onto a warmed tortilla, then top with Mango Salsa and your desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Shrimp Fried Rice
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your taste. With this simple recipe, you’ll have a plate of savory shrimp fried rice in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring constantly to break up any clumps.
6. Add the soy sauce, salt, and pepper, and stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
7. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for another minute, until everything is well combined.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make shrimp bake, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the savory goodness of garlic, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, and shrimp.
3. In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the breadcrumb mixture to the shrimp mixture and toss until evenly coated.
5. Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with tender broccoli, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Shrimp and Grits
This classic Southern dish gets a spicy kick with the addition of bold flavors and heat. Serve this Spicy Shrimp and Grits recipe as a main course or as a flavorful brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Chopped scallions and crumbled feta cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using water and heavy cream.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve shrimp over cooked grits.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A creamy and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This Shrimp and Corn Chowder is a quick and easy meal that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory taste of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
A classic Louisiana-style sandwich that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich recipe features succulent shrimp, crispy lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy remoulade sauce all on a soft baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 hens’ eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
– 2 heads of lettuce, chopped
– 2 tomatoes, sliced
– 1 baguette, cut into 4-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on each baguette piece, then adding shrimp, lettuce, tomato, and sliced eggs.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp Bowl
This Teriyaki Shrimp Bowl recipe is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines succulent shrimp with sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice and crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic to make the teriyaki sauce.
2. In a separate pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of water over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan or wok, add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Serve the shrimp on top of cooked rice, with teriyaki sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shrimp and Spinach Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with the richness of spinach and the comfort of pasta, all in a quick and easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add white wine (if using) to the skillet and stir to deglaze.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and spinach mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss with reserved pasta water as needed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Ceviche with Tortilla Chips
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in lime juice with the crunch of tortilla chips. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve chilled, accompanied by tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya
This classic Louisiana dish combines the flavors of spicy sausage, succulent shrimp, and savory rice for a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken broth, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add the browned sausage and peeled shrimp back into the skillet; stir to combine.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 mouthwatering frozen shrimp recipes! From classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Creamy Shrimp Alfredo, to spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta and flavorful Teriyaki Shrimp Bowl, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy stir-fry or a more indulgent pasta dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.