Are you a shell-on shrimp lover looking for some inspiration to spice up your seafood dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine bold flavors with the simplicity and ease of using shell-on shrimp. From classic scampi to spicy stir-fries and paella, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Whether you’re a seafood newbie or a seasoned pro, we’ve got something for everyone. Our recipes range from quick and easy weeknight meals to impressive dinner party dishes that will surely impress your guests.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of shell-on shrimp and exploring some of the most delicious and innovative ways to prepare them. From garlic butter to spicy Thai flavors, we’ve got 18 incredible recipes to get you started. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of shell-on shrimp!
Garlic Butter Shell-On Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, with succulent shell-on shrimp smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shell-on shrimp
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and 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 shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and melt over medium heat.
7. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice; simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve shrimp with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Grilled Shell-On Shrimp Skewers
Cajun Grilled Shell-On Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Get ready to spice up your grilling game with these mouthwatering Cajun Grilled Shell-On Shrimp Skewers! This recipe combines the classic flavors of the Bayou with the convenience of shell-on shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shell-on shrimp
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shell-on shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat.
4. Thread 5-6 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice pilaf or grilled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Thai Shell-On Shrimp Stir-Fry
This recipe combines succulent shell-on shrimp with a bold and spicy Thai-inspired sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. With only 15 minutes of cooking time, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shell-on shrimp
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add shrimp and bell peppers; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and honey.
5. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Shell-On Shrimp Bake
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and flavorful shrimp bake, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, and paprika. Toss until the shrimp are well coated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Old Bay Steamed Shell-On Shrimp
Add a touch of Maryland flavor to your seafood with this simple recipe that showcases the iconic Old Bay seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shell-on shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, lemon slices, and garlic.
3. Add the white wine (if using) to the pot.
4. Cover the pot and steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let sit for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp Boil with Corn and Potatoes
This hearty boil combines succulent shell-on shrimp with sweet corn and tender potatoes, all infused with the rich flavors of Old Bay seasoning. Perfect for a casual dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shell-on shrimp
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Water to cover
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ingredients.
2. Add salt, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add corn and potatoes. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until they’re tender.
5. Add shell-on shrimp and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat, cover, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Lime Grilled Shell-On Shrimp
Elevate your backyard gatherings with this bold and tangy seafood recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer soiree.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shell-on shrimp
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shell-On Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shell-on shrimp
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parmesan cheese, and parsley. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe featuring succulent shell-on shrimp, crunchy slaw, and a tangy avocado crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shell-on shrimp
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw made with red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro
– Avocado crema (see below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, slaw, and avocado crema.
Avocado Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mash avocado in a bowl, then stir in sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp and Grits with Spicy Sauce
Kick off your day with a Southern-inspired breakfast that’s sure to spice up your morning! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a tangy spicy sauce for a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Sauce (see below)
– Chopped green onions and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp over medium-high heat with paprika and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine cooked shrimp with spicy sauce (see below) and stir to coat.
4. Serve shrimp over grits and garnish with chopped green onions and lemon wedges.
Spicy Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.
Shell-On Shrimp Curry with Coconut Milk
Savor the flavors of Southeast Asia with this aromatic and creamy shell-on shrimp curry. This recipe is a perfect blend of spices, coconut milk, and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shell-on shrimp
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shell-on shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp Paella with Saffron Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this classic paella recipe, featuring succulent shell-on shrimp and aromatic saffron-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice (Calasparra or Bomba)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound shell-on shrimp, peeled and deveined ( reserve shells for paella)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water and saffron-infused water.
2. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shell-on shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add reserved shrimp shells and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
6. Serve paella hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger
This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry that highlights the natural sweetness of shell-on shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shell-on shrimp
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp Pasta in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Savor the flavor of succulent shrimp and spicy tomato sauce tossed with pasta, all within a quick 30-minute cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, shells removed
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp, cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Add reserved pasta water if sauce thickens too much.
5. Toss cooked pasta with shrimp mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Dipping Sauce
Elevate your cocktail party with this refreshing and flavorful shell-on shrimp recipe, paired with a tangy dipping sauce that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shell-on shrimp
– 1/2 cup zesty dipping sauce (see below)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh parsley or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Chill the shrimp in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
3. Fill a large bowl with ice and place the chilled shrimp on top.
4. Serve immediately, offering the zesty dipping sauce on the side.
Zesty Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe involves no cooking!
Shell-On Shrimp Fried Rice with Vegetables
Get ready to devour a flavorful and filling meal with this Shell-On Shrimp Fried Rice recipe, packed with succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 1/2 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
• Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
6. Add the shrimp to the other side and cook until pink and fully cooked.
7. Stir in the cooked rice with the vegetable mixture.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Shell-On Shrimp Fried Rice with Vegetables!
Shell-On Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and colorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of mango. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shell-on shrimp
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp, bell peppers, pineapple, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shell-On Shrimp in Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce
Add a burst of flavor to your seafood with this simple and delicious recipe for shell-on shrimp in spicy garlic butter sauce. This quick-cooking dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 shell-on shrimp
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 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 small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, hot sauce, and lemon juice.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 bold and flavorful shell-on shrimp recipes! From classic scampi to spicy stir-fries, and from tacos to paella, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to elevate your seafood game with garlic butter, Cajun seasoning, Thai chili flakes, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to impress.
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