Get ready to dive into a world of flavors with these 18 mouthwatering recipes inspired by the sea! As popularized by the iconic movie Bubba Gump’s, these dishes are sure to transport your taste buds to the coastal regions of the United States. From spicy Cajun shrimp and creamy gumbo to fresh seafood po’ boys and indulgent popcorn shrimp, there’s something for every beach-loving foodie on this list.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of seafood cooking, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to cook up some coastal cuisine with these Bubba Gump-inspired dishes!
Shrimp Gumbo with Andouille Sausage
This hearty gumbo combines the bold flavors of Andouille sausage, succulent shrimp, and the rich history of Cajun cuisine. Serve over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock or water
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, and filé powder (if using). Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Fried Shrimp with Cajun Spice
Get ready for a flavorful Southern treat that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the bold kick of Cajun spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 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. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat, stir in white wine (if using) and lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this bold combination of blackened shrimp and fresh mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning
– 4 tacos shells
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and blackening seasoning. Add shrimp and coat evenly.
3. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto shells and topping with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy shrimp and grits recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 2 cups of chicken broth. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked grits and cook for an additional minute, combining flavors.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the spicy grit mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Lemon Herb Marinade
Elevate your summer gatherings with these succulent grilled shrimp skewers, perfectly seasoned with a zesty lemon herb marinade. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a backyard barbecue or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and Dijon mustard.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade Sauce
A classic New Orleans-inspired sandwich that combines succulent shrimp with crispy bread and creamy remoulade sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 French bread rolls or hoagie buns
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade, see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne 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.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried shrimp on bread rolls or hoagie buns, topped with remoulade sauce and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Étouffée with Steamed Rice
Shrimp Étouffée with Steamed Rice Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of this classic Louisiana dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a spicy roux-based sauce and served over fluffy steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Steamed rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add paprika, cayenne pepper, diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spicy Coconut Shrimp Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry combines succulent shrimp with a creamy coconut-based sauce infused with the warmth of spices, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bubba Gump’s Famous Popcorn Shrimp
Get ready to experience the flavor of Forrest’s favorite snack from the movie Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.! This recipe combines crispy shrimp with a light and airy popcorn coating, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry coated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. While shrimp is cooking, melt butter and popcorn kernels in a separate pan over medium heat.
6. Once the shrimp is done, place it into the melted butter-popcorn mixture to coat.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with these decadent shrimp and crab stuffed mushrooms, packed with flavorful fillings and a hint of buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, shrimp, butter, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab-shrimp mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creole Shrimp Jambalaya
Classic Creole cuisine meets bold flavor in this hearty shrimp jambalaya dish. With a medley of aromatics, spices, and succulent shrimp, this one-pot wonder is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high 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. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and parsley.
6. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your pasta dish with this simple and delicious recipe. Succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and rich butter come together in harmony to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Toss with cooked pasta, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn and creamy potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine potatoes, onion, and garlic. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add corn kernels, shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Heat until warmed through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad
Elevate your classic Caesar salad with the addition of succulent grilled shrimp and a hint of smoky flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and garlic.
2. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Slice grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad.
5. Toss to coat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grill time)
Bubba’s Bayou Shrimp Boil
A classic Southern treat that’s perfect for a backyard bash or casual dinner party, Bubba’s Bayou Shrimp Boil is a flavorful and fun twist on traditional boiled shrimp. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp (16-20 count)
– 1 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the shrimp and sausage. Add Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink.
5. Remove from heat and serve with lemon wedges and minced garlic.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a hint of spice, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp and lime juice. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
2. Add the diced avocado, chopped jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Stir gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on shrimp cooking time)
Baked Shrimp with Parmesan and Breadcrumbs
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and satisfying baked shrimp recipe, featuring the rich flavors of parmesan cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
4. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, then coat each shrimp evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure with these 18 delicious recipes inspired by the sea! From classic shrimp dishes like Shrimp Gumbo with Andouille Sausage and Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, to bold twists like Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa and Spicy Coconut Shrimp Curry, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover Bubba Gump-inspired favorites like Popcorn Shrimp and Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwiches, or try your hand at recipes like Cajun Shrimp and Grits and Creole Shrimp Jambalaya. With these mouthwatering recipes, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
