Are you a seafood lover looking for some inspiration to spice up your meal routine? Look no further! Head-on shrimp is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be prepared in countless ways. From spicy Cajun boils to creamy pasta bakes, we’ve got 19 mouth-watering recipe ideas that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of head-on shrimp recipes and explore everything from classic garlic butter dishes to bold international flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and packed with flavor. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously delicious seafood!
Garlic Butter Head on Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful and spicy one-pot dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook 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 and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
6. Add the broccoli, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Head on Shrimp Boil
Spicy Cajun Head on Shrimp Boil Recipe
Get ready to spice up your shrimp boil with this bold and flavorful recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, shells removed and deveined
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the shrimp, Cajun seasoning blend, hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add enough water to cover the shrimp by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less hot sauce.
– For an extra burst of flavor, add some sliced onions, bell peppers, or corn cobs to the boil.
Lemon Herb Grilled Head on Shrimp
Brighten up your seafood dinner with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of lemon, the freshness of herbs, and the tender juiciness of grilled shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and dill.
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 shake off excess. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Head on Shrimp
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this mouthwatering curry dish, featuring succulent shrimp swimming in a creamy coconut sauce.
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 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry paste (Thai red or green)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. In a separate pan, combine coconut milk, curry paste, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Stir the curry mixture into the shrimp skillet; reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Head on Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
Savor the simplicity of a classic Italian dish with this recipe for Head-On Shrimp Scampi with Linguine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp, shells intact
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 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. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add head-on shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shells turn bright pink and meat is opaque.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Stir in lemon juice, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked linguine with shrimp mixture. Toss to coat.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Head on Shrimp Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this smoky and savory recipe! Smoky chipotle head on shrimp tacos are a flavorful twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads removed
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
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, or until they are pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp onto a warmed tortilla and garnishing with cilantro leaves and lime wedges (if using).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Head on Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Quick and flavorful, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with crunchy vegetables for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon 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 shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
5. Add bell pepper and broccoli; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return shrimp to the wok; stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Chili Glazed Head on Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe yields a sticky, caramelized crust on succulent shrimp that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, honey, chili flakes, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Add garlic and butter; mix until smooth.
4. Thread shrimp onto skewers or place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush glaze evenly over the shrimp, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Head on Shrimp Paella with Saffron Rice
This classic Spanish dish is a flavorful and aromatic celebration of seafood, rice, and spices. With succulent head-on shrimp and saffron-infused rice, this paella recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb head-on shrimp
– 2 cups uncooked Calasparra rice (or Arborio)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add head-on shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, combine rice, chicken broth, water, saffron with hot water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Combine cooked paella mixture with shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Fried Head on Shrimp with Dipping Sauce
Crispy Fried Heads on Shrimp with Dipping Sauce Recipe
Summary: Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful recipe for crispy fried heads on shrimp, served with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 head-on shrimp
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each shrimp head into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated shrimp on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the shrimp heads for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve with fried shrimp heads.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes, depending on size of shrimp and number of batches needed for frying.
Head on Shrimp Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this refreshing and flavorful ceviche recipe, perfect for a light and zesty appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Head on Shrimp and Grits with Creamy Cheese Sauce
A Southern-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and comforting grits. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cheese and heavy cream. Whisk over low heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve the shrimp on top of the grits, spooning some of the cheesy sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Head on Shrimp Kebabs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful shrimp kebabs, perfectly balanced by sweet pineapple and crunchy bell peppers. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Head on Shrimp seasoning (or to taste)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, Head on Shrimp seasoning, and salt. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Thread shrimp, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with pepper.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Head on Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake
A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful twist on the classic pasta bake, featuring succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp in butter until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked pasta, then add the shrimp mixture on top.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the shrimp, ensuring everything is well coated.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Head on Shrimp in Spicy Tomato Basil Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful dish, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a spicy tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Stir in chopped basil and hot sauce (if using).
8. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Head on Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Salad combines succulent shrimp with the creaminess of avocado, all tied together with a zesty kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice.
5. Add grilled shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Head on Shrimp with Garlic and White Wine Sauce
This decadent dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic and white wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or romantic evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the garlic and white wine sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Head on Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the bold flavors of Louisiana with the sweetness of succulent head-on shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb head-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Add head-on shrimp; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Head on Shrimp Tempura with Soy Ginger Dip
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this easy-to-make tempura recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Soy Ginger Dip (see below)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the mixture, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip shrimp into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch deep vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Remove the tempura from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Soy Ginger Dip:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed ginger juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve warm or at room temperature with the tempura.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes, including frying time.
Summary
Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting head-on shrimp recipes? Look no further! This article features 19 mouth-watering dishes that showcase the versatility of head-on shrimp. From classic garlic butter skillet to spicy Cajun boil, there’s something for everyone. Try grilled shrimp with lemon herb, or indulge in sweet chili glazed shrimp. You’ll also find recipes like Thai coconut curry, shrimp scampi with linguine, and even shrimp tacos with chipotle seasoning. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these flavorful head-on shrimp recipes are sure to impress.
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