These 17 Shrimp Recipes Proved I Don’t Need to Spend Big to Eat Well

ByMandy

Shrimp used to feel like a splurge, but that changed fast. These 17 shrimp recipes proved I don’t need to spend big to eat well. They’re simple to pull off and always feel like a win. Turns out, smart choices can make dinner feel a lot more special.

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers served on a plate, topped with chopped herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cooking shrimp over an open flame brings out its natural smoky depth. Grilled Shrimp pairs perfectly with simple sides or a fresh salad, making it a great meal option. It’s also surprisingly quick to prepare. Perfect for both casual days and enjoyable get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy shrimp paired with creamy sauce make Bang Bang Shrimp a go-to for anyone craving bold flavors. It’s great for casual meals or as a fun starter for friends. You don’t need much to make this dish work. Affordable and memorable, it’s worth trying!
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp and Grits

A bowl of creamy grits topped with shrimp in a tomato-based sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.
Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining comfort food with seafood always hits the mark. Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern-inspired dish that fills you up without being heavy. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. This dish proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to enjoy a rich meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Convenient meets flavorful with this option that’s quick to fix. Air Fryer Shrimp gives you a slightly crisp but tender bite every time. A healthier twist without sacrificing any of the enjoyment found in shrimp dishes. Ideal for busy days when time feels rushed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Grilled Shrimp Kebobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kebobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Skewers add fun and ease to Grilled Shrimp Kebobs, perfect for casual meals or outdoor cookouts. The shrimp cooks evenly while keeping things simple and affordable. You won’t miss expensive dinners with meals like this. It’s great for sharing with family or friends.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kebobs

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich, creamy dishes like Massaman Curry highlight shrimp’s adaptability. It’s hearty enough for comforting meals without being boring. Each bite feels like a variety in just one bowl. Shrimp takes center stage, adding depth alongside familiar, go-to curry essentials.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Trying something fresh? Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing offers bold shrimp paired with a fresh topping. It’s light, affordable, and tastes like something you’d find at a nice place. You’ll love how easy it is to enjoy at home.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail with peeled shrimp arranged on the rim of a glass filled with cocktail sauce, garnished with parsley.
Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who says simple can’t be a standout choice? Shrimp Cocktail proves that appetizers can feel accessible without breaking the budget. Great as an appetizer or side dish, it works for everyday meals too. Perfect for enjoying shrimp in its most basic but flavorful form.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweetness and shrimp create a fine balance in this dish. Mango Shrimp Salad keeps things light while still feeling satisfying. A great choice for warmer days or when lighter meals are on your mind. It’s proof that simple combinations still shine at any table.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you like sushi but want something different, Sushi Bake is the answer. Shrimp adds a delicious twist to traditional sushi flavors. It’s easy to make and way cheaper than ordering out. Great for sharing with family or trying at your next meal.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla.
Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone loves handheld dishes that pack flavor while keeping it simple. Shrimp Tacos bring versatility, fitting into busy dinners or casual evenings. The shrimp adds a hearty element without complicating the preparation. Great for switching up taco night without increasing effort.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Shrimp adds freshness to deep flavors in Tom Yum Soup, a favorite for affordable dinner nights. Every spoonful mixes shrimp perfectly with the broth in an unforgettable way. Great value, and it feels special too. Make it for cozy days or something different.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Introducing shrimp into bold noodle dishes adds an unexpected element. Thai Drunken Noodles transport the usual noodles into something far more memorable. Shrimp ties it all together, making it great for changing up routine meals. It’s filling without overloading your setup.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy and fun, Shrimp Toast offers shrimp on a budget in bite-sized pieces. It’s perfect for snacking or for a light starter without spending much. You’ll be surprised how good affordable eats can be. A great way to enjoy something small but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pairing seafood with pasta still feels luxurious when done casually. With Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you balance fancy vibes without over-the-top cost. Great for evenings spent indoors, but wanting something extra special. Perfect as an easy dinner during date night setups indoors!
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Tandoori Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers seasoned with spices and garnished with fresh herbs, served on a dark plate.
Tandoori Shrimp. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Spices take center stage in Tandoori Shrimp, making shrimp bold and flavorful. It’s a dish that’s quick yet leaves a big impression without big spending. Cooking shrimp this way makes it feel completely new. Great if you’re in the mood for something bold.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Shrimp

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Everything fits together in Shrimp Burrito Bowls, where shrimp takes center stage in a mix of textures. It’s fun, filling, and wallet-friendly. You’ll love having this versatile option for quick meals. Great for meal prep or everyday dinners alike.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

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