Are your little ones picky eaters? Do they turn up their noses at seafood? Think again! Shrimp is a great way to introduce kids to the world of fish and seafood, and with these 20 easy shrimp recipes, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time. From cheesy quesadillas to sweet and sour balls, there’s something for everyone on this list. Plus, many of these recipes are kid-friendly and can be customized to suit their tastes.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of shrimp and discover a whole new level of culinary fun! Whether you’re a parent, teacher or just a shrimp lover, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make shrimp recipes that kids will love. Stay tuned for more!
Cheesy Shrimp Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines succulent shrimp, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, butter, cheese, cilantro, and garlic.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the shrimp mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch of 4 quesadillas.
Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines succulent shrimp with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and snow peas; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kid-Friendly Shrimp Tacos
These tacos are a great way to get kids to eat seafood without even realizing it’s good for them. Shrimp is a mild-flavored protein that pairs well with kid-friendly toppings like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Lettuce
– Tomatoes
– Optional: diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the spice mixture to the shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with cooked shrimp, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any desired additional toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s ready in no time! This simple recipe combines succulent shrimp with garlicky butter and a hint of pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, melt 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. Add remaining 2 tbsp. butter to the skillet. If using white wine, add it now (reduce heat if necessary).
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and garlic butter sauce. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Dip
A tropical twist on classic shrimp, this recipe combines the flavors of coconut and sweet chili sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party favorite!
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (such as Sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each shrimp into olive oil, then coat in coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce and honey.
7. Serve baked shrimp with sweet dip for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory taste of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Shrimp Pizza Bites
Elevate your party game with these bite-sized shrimp pizza treats that are easy to make and always a hit. Perfect for cocktail parties, movie nights, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Place a shrimp in the center of each square. Drizzle with tomato sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape. Seal edges by pressing gently with fingers.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Glazed Shrimp Skewers
Sweet and savory, these shrimp skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice with Hidden Veggies
This recipe adds a boost of nutrients to traditional shrimp fried rice by incorporating finely chopped vegetables. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (finely chopped carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble until cooked through. Mix with vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
8. Combine cooked shrimp with rice mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crunchy Shrimp Nuggets with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your snack game with these crispy shrimp nuggets and a tangy dipping sauce that will have you hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp and toss to coat.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Dipping Sauce:
– Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 minced garlic clove.
– Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Shrimp and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
A creative twist on traditional potato dishes, these flavorful stuffed potatoes combine succulent shrimp with melted cheese for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the potatoes are baking, sauté the shrimp in butter until pink and cooked through.
4. Stuff each potato with equal portions of cooked shrimp, cheese, and parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Quick Shrimp and Avocado Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing wrap that combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the wraps by placing some shrimp, avocado slices, and cilantro onto each tortilla. Squeeze a sliver of lime juice over the top.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on a classic macaroni and cheese dish, this recipe adds succulent shrimp for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add flour and whisk together with milk to make a roux. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, shrimp, and cheese sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Shrimp Balls
This sweet and sour shrimp ball recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired appetizer that combines the flavors of tangy sweetness with savory shrimp. With just a few ingredients, you can create crispy and delicious bite-sized treats perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, sugar, soy sauce, and sweet and sour sauce. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until just combined.
3. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the shrimp balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 8-10 minutes
Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
This classic Italian dish gets a seafood twist with succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli tossed in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and broccoli in a large serving dish. Pour creamy Alfredo sauce over top and toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fun Shrimp and Pineapple Kebabs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with caramelized pineapple for a flavor explosion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Thread shrimp and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the kebabs with the honey-soy mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shrimp Popcorn with Ranch Dip
This addictive snack combines crispy popcorn with succulent shrimp and a tangy ranch dip, perfect for movie nights or sporting events.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ranch dip mix (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Pop popcorn kernels in a large bowl using an air popper or microwave.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on the cooked shrimp to taste.
5. Combine popped popcorn and cooked shrimp in a large bowl.
6. Prepare ranch dip mix according to package instructions or use homemade recipe.
7. Serve shrimp-popcorn mixture with ranch dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (popcorn) + 6-8 minutes (shrimp)
Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Popcorn with Ranch Dip!
Shrimp and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines succulent shrimp with sweet potatoes and a hint of smoky flavor from the paprika. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve sweet potato hash topped with shrimp mixture and garnished with chopped green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Shrimp and Corn Fritters
Get ready for a flavorful and crispy treat with this simple recipe that combines succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp and corn kernels to the bowl; stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the buttermilk; mix until the mixture forms a thick batter.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of the batter into the oil, leaving some space between each fritter.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy; drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Shrimp and Cucumber Sushi Rolls
Experience the refreshing combination of succulent shrimp and crunchy cucumber wrapped in a delicate sushi roll.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and cooled white rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the avocado and cucumber into thin strips.
3. Peel and de-vein the shrimp, then cut them into small pieces.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place 2-3 pieces of shrimp and 1-2 slices of avocado and cucumber in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get your little ones excited to cook with these 20 easy shrimp recipes! From quesadillas to pasta, and even pizza bites, there’s something for every kid. Try making Cheesy Shrimp Quesadillas, Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry, or Kid-Friendly Shrimp Tacos. For a sweet treat, whip up Baked Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Dip. These fun and delicious recipes are perfect for kids to get involved in the kitchen and learn new cooking skills.