When it comes to seafood, few options are as versatile and delicious as shrimp. And when you add a dash of heat to the mix, you’ve got yourself a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and creamy or bold and adventurous, there’s a spicy shrimp recipe out there that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that put the “spicy” in shrimp. From garlic butter scampi to Thai coconut curry, these dishes are guaranteed to add some excitement to your meal routine. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of spicy shrimp and discover some new favorite flavors!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Add a touch of elegance to your dinner table with this quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe. Succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for serving over pasta or rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 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 butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until reduced by half.
6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve shrimp over pasta or rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and bold spices for a mouthwatering meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb Cajun-style sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1 minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
Add a sweet and spicy twist to your shrimp dish with this flavorful recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil or butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the shrimp and stir to coat.
5. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the flavors of the ocean with the sweetness of tropical fruit, making for a refreshing and delicious twist on traditional tacos. Crispy shrimp and tangy mango salsa come together in perfect harmony.
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 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp on a tortilla, topping with Mango Salsa, and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry
This recipe combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the spiciness of Thai red curry paste, resulting in a rich and aromatic shrimp curry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in coconut milk, water, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp
Brighten up your plate with this zesty and flavorful shrimp dish, perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and lemon pepper seasoning.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove shrimp from marinade and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Shrimp Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a savory and flavorful dish with this simple shrimp fried rice recipe. Perfect for using up cooked rice and adding some protein to your meal.
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
– 2 green onions, 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, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
5. Add the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for another minute.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
This indulgent pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a spicy Bang Bang sauce, tossed with linguine and finished with crispy bacon and green onions. A flavorful twist on classic shrimp scampi, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Bang Bang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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.
4. Stir in Bang Bang sauce and bring to a simmer. Toss with cooked pasta and crumbled bacon.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Grits
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the olive oil, garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in the cooked grits and cook until heated through. Serve with the shrimp on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 garlic and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
4. Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with crunchy vegetables and savory sauce. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add shrimp, ginger, and red pepper flakes; cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour over the shrimp mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Étouffée
Shrimp Étouffée Recipe
This classic Louisiana dish is a flavorful and spicy shrimp stew that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich roux-based sauce and succulent shrimp, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups fish stock or water
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
- Dredge shrimp in flour, shaking off excess. Add shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
- Gradually add fish stock or water, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time:
About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Shrimp Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this classic Italian-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Leave the garlic butter sauce in the pan.
5. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until coated.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Shrimp with Avocado Cream
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and refreshing recipe, combining the spicy kick of blackened shrimp with the smooth richness of avocado cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until blackened.
4. Meanwhile, combine avocado halves in a blender or food processor with Greek yogurt, lime juice, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve the blackened shrimp on top of the avocado cream, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
A classic New Orleans sandwich gets a seafood twist with this shrimp-filled Po’ Boy. Crispy fried shrimp, tangy remoulade sauce, and crunchy lettuce on toasted French bread make for a mouthwatering combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 French bread baguettes, toasted
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip shrimp in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry shrimp in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried shrimp on toasted baguettes, topping with remoulade sauce and lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Pad Thai
This classic Thai dish is a flavorful combination of stir-fried shrimp, noodles, and vegetables, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce. With this simple recipe, you’ll be able to create an authentic-tasting Shrimp Pad Thai at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons Pad Thai sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges and chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables to skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and add Pad Thai sauce. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and chopped peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Ceviche
This light and zesty Shrimp Ceviche recipe is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a flavor boost. Marinate succulent shrimp in a mixture of citrus juices, spices, and herbs to create a refreshing and flavorful dish.
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 to taste
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in salt to taste.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with diced avocado if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious option for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 15 minutes. With succulent shrimp, crisp broccoli, and savory soy sauce, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 until pink and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the broccoli and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fajitas with this shrimp-packed recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Sprinkle fajita seasoning to taste; stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked shrimp mixture onto tortillas and serving with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Sauce
Elevate your cocktail party game with this simple yet flavorful shrimp recipe. This spicy twist on a classic will leave your guests wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup cocktail sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Chill the shrimp in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cocktail sauce, lime juice, and hot sauce.
3. Add the chilled shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the spicy sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick and easy appetizer that’s ready in no time.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds! This collection of 20 spicy shrimp recipes will take you on a flavorful journey around the world. From classic Scampi to bold and spicy dishes like Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover how to add a kick to your meals with garlic butter, cajun spices, honey and more. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, curry, or pasta, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering roundup of spicy shrimp recipes.
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