18 Delicious Shrimp Appetizer Recipes for Every Occasion

Carmen Eldridge

March 31, 2025

Are you looking for a delicious and impressive way to start your next gathering or party? Look no further than these 18 mouth-watering shrimp appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of flavors and textures.

From classic garlic butter skewers to innovative dishes like jalapeño popper stuffed shrimp and parmesan garlic crostini, our collection has something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal event, these recipes are sure to be a hit with your guests.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of the 18 shrimp appetizer recipes that make up our collection, highlighting the ingredients, cooking methods, and presentation ideas that will help you bring each dish to life. So without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the world of shrimp appetizers!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your seafood game with these succulent garlic butter shrimp skewers, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or appetizer. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be enjoying flavorful and tender shrimp in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush both sides of the shrimp with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dip

Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination of crispy coconut shrimp and sweet mango dip.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Dip:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Lime juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lime zest.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, sour cream, and honey in a bowl. Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if needed.
7. Serve cooked shrimp with Mango Dip and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy sriracha sauce, and crunchy lettuce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves ( Romaine or Butter lettuce work well)
– Optional toppings: diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, sriracha sauce, and garlic powder. Add the shrimp and marinate for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the shrimp in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing a few cooked shrimp onto a lettuce leaf, followed by your choice of toppings.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Lemon Herb Shrimp Bruschetta

Lemon Herb Shrimp Bruschetta
Lemon Herb Shrimp Bruschetta: A Bright and Refreshing Twist on Classic Bruschetta!

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
5. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and place them on top of the toasted bread.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and feta cheese (if using).
7. Garnish with parsley leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Honey Glaze

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Honey Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of bacon with the sweetness of honey, creating a deliciously indulgent appetizer or main course. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these mouthwatering shrimp in no time!

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each shrimp with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and olive oil.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with the honey glaze.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Avocado Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Avocado Shrimp Cucumber Bites
A refreshing appetizer or snack that combines the creaminess of avocado, the sweetness of shrimp, and the crunch of cucumber.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp, chopped
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix together avocado, shrimp, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the avocado-shrimp mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (preparation) + no cooking required

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp with the classic flavors of jalapeño poppers. Crispy, cheesy, and spicy, these bite-sized morsels are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Panko breadcrumbs for coating

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, and lemon juice.
3. Stuff each shrimp with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture.
4. Coat the stuffed shrimp with Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Thai Chili Lime Shrimp Cups

Thai Chili Lime Shrimp Cups
Thai Chili Lime Shrimp Cups: A flavorful and refreshing appetizer or snack that combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 wonton wrappers (about 3 inches square)
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a large skillet or wok over high heat with about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and fully cooked.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining cilantro, bell pepper, and cucumber in a small bowl.
6. Fry the wonton wrappers in batches until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Assemble the cups by placing a few shrimp on each wrapper, followed by a spoonful of the filling mixture.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Crostini

Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized shrimp crostini, featuring a rich parmesan garlic flavor. Perfect for parties and gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 24-30 slices)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted crostini with a shrimp, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers Recipe
Savor the sweetness of summer with these colorful skewers, featuring succulent shrimp paired with juicy pineapple.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers

Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, and ginger.
3. Add the shrimp and toss to coat.
4. Thread shrimp, pineapple chunks, and a sprinkle of the marinade mixture onto each skewer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs

Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine and succulent shrimp. This recipe combines the classic deviled egg with spicy shrimp, perfect for a party or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– 1/4 cup cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp (about 6-8 pieces)
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)

Instructions:

1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Add mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, paprika, salt, and pepper to the yolks. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped green onions (if using).
5. Divide the yolk mixture among the egg white halves.
6. Top each deviled egg with a piece of shrimp, sprinkling with Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas

Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas recipe. By combining succulent shrimp, tangy lime juice, and crispy tortillas, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Queso fresco or feta cheese crumbles (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Just before serving, arrange tostadas on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the ceviche mixture onto each tortilla.
3. Top with diced avocado and crumbled queso fresco (if using). Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)

Panko-Crusted Shrimp Sliders

Panko-Crusted Shrimp Sliders
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized shrimp sliders, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for parties or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, or other toppings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, 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, leaving space between each shrimp.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble sliders by placing cooked shrimp onto hamburger buns and adding your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Sweet Chili Glazed Shrimp Spring Rolls

Sweet Chili Glazed Shrimp Spring Rolls
Sweet Chili Glazed Shrimp Spring Rolls: A Twist on a Classic Recipe

These sweet and savory spring rolls are filled with succulent shrimp, crispy vegetables, and a hint of chili glaze. Perfect for your next dinner party or casual gathering!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey.
3. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Assemble spring rolls by placing a spoonful of cooked vegetables and shrimp in the center of each wrapper. Brush edges with water and roll up tightly. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle sweet chili glaze over spring rolls and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent shrimp, tangy cream cheese, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, parsley, shrimp, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Chipotle Shrimp Tacos

Smoky Chipotle Shrimp Tacos
Smoky Chipotle Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, and succulent shrimp to create a spicy and savory taco filling.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro leaves, and sour cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the smoky chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the tacos with the shrimp mixture, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro leaves, and sour cream (if using).

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp and Mango Salsa Nachos

Shrimp and Mango Salsa Nachos
Shrimp and Mango Salsa Nachos: A Twist on a Classic!

These nachos are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring succulent shrimp, juicy mango, and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 tortilla chips
– Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Top with the cooked shrimp, mango mixture (see below), and shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Mango Salsa:

– Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and cumin in a bowl.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Herbed Shrimp and Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups

Herbed Shrimp and Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy phyllo cups filled with succulent shrimp, tangy goat cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a elegant gathering or a quick weeknight snack.

Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the shrimp mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around each cup.
5. Top each cup with crumbled goat cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until phyllo cups are golden brown.
7. Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering shrimp appetizer recipes! From classic garlic butter skewers to innovative sweet chili glaze spring rolls, there’s something for every occasion. Crispy coconut shrimp with mango dip is perfect for a tropical-themed party, while spicy sriracha shrimp lettuce wraps add a kick to any gathering. Bacon-wrapped shrimp with honey glaze and parmesan garlic crostini are great options for a more elegant affair. Whether you’re looking for something easy or impressive, these 18 delicious shrimp recipes have got you covered.

Leave a Comment