Shrimp has become one of the most popular proteins for home cooks looking to create quick, nutritious meals.
High-protein shrimp recipes deliver impressive results without requiring advanced cooking skills or specialty equipment.
This lean seafood cooks in minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules and meal prep routines. The recipes I’m sharing here range from classic skillet dishes to creative wraps and bowls.
Each option focuses on simplicity, using basic ingredients and straightforward techniques.
These meals work perfectly for beginners seeking practical dinner solutions that taste restaurant-quality. I’ve included options that fit seamlessly into any weekly meal plan.
Why Shrimp Is a High Protein Powerhouse for Quick Meals
High protein shrimp recipes are meals centered around shrimp as the primary protein source. Shrimp provides approximately 20-24 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving while containing only about 84 calories and less than 1 gram of fat.
This makes it one of the leanest protein options available. Coastal cuisines have relied on shrimp for generations, and modern home cooking has embraced it for its quick cooking time and versatility.
The popularity of high protein shrimp recipes continues to grow as more people seek efficient ways to meet protein goals without spending hours in the kitchen.
These recipes typically combine shrimp with complementary ingredients like vegetables, grains, or simple seasonings to create balanced, satisfying meals.
1. Garlic Shrimp Skillet Recipe
This garlic shrimp skillet is a basic stovetop recipe that is quick to cook and easy for first time cooks.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 15 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 10 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 160 | Protein: 23g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 0g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make it
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly.
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook without moving for 2 minutes until bottoms turn pink. Flip each shrimp and cook the other side for 2 minutes until completely pink.
Season with salt and black pepper, toss gently, and serve immediately.
2. Lemon Pepper Shrimp Recipe
This lemon pepper shrimp recipe uses simple seasoning and minimal prep for a light, high protein dinner.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 12 minutes (Prep: 3 minutes, Cook: 9 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 163 | Protein: 23g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 1g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- Lemon wedges for serving
How to Make it
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and allow the pan to get hot before adding shrimp. Add shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking.
Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning evenly over the shrimp and let cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until bottoms are pink.
Flip shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they curl into a “C” shape. Remove from heat, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp, toss gently, and serve with lemon wedges.
3. Shrimp and Rice Bowl Recipe
This shrimp and rice bowl is filling, balanced, and easy to assemble with basic pantry ingredients.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 20 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 15 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 263 | Protein: 25g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 23g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Sliced green onions (optional)
How to Make it
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and ensure the pan is properly heated before cooking.
Add shrimp to the skillet, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink throughout.
While shrimp cooks, divide warm cooked rice evenly among four bowls for the best texture and flavor. Spoon the cooked shrimp over the rice in each bowl, distributing evenly to ensure each serving has equal protein.
Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve immediately while the shrimp is hot.
4. Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
This shrimp stir fry is a simple one pan meal that combines protein and vegetables without complicated cooking.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 18 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 13 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 186 | Protein: 24.5g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 5g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How to Make it
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat, as high heat is essential for proper stir-frying technique. Add mixed vegetables to the hot pan and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp but still bright in color.
Push vegetables to the sides of the pan, creating space in the center, and add shrimp to the cleared area. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add soy sauce, toss everything together, and cook for 1 more minute to combine flavors before serving immediately.
5. Shrimp Tacos Recipe
These shrimp tacos are easy to prepare and work well for a quick high protein dinner.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 15 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 10 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 328 | Protein: 27g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 28g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: cabbage, salsa, lime
How to Make it
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and toss with taco seasoning in a bowl, ensuring even coating for consistent flavor.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until the pan is hot before adding the seasoned shrimp. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred, avoiding overcooking to maintain tenderness.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap in foil and heat in the oven. Fill each tortilla with cooked shrimp, add desired toppings, and serve immediately while hot.
6. Baked Shrimp Recipe
Baked shrimp is a hands off cooking method that is beginner friendly and requires very little attention.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 20 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 15 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 190 | Protein: 23g | Fat: 12.5g | Carbs: 0g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How to Make it
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray. Toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl, ensuring even coating.
Spread shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between pieces for even cooking. Bake for 8-10 minutes until pink and opaque; cooking time depends on shrimp size.
Remove from oven and serve immediately, as shrimp will continue cooking from residual heat.
7. Shrimp Salad Recipe
This shrimp salad is a cold option that adds protein to a simple lunch or light dinner.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 10 minutes (Prep: 10 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 200 | Protein: 23.5g | Fat: 12.5g | Carbs: 1.5g
Materials Required
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 cups mixed lettuce or salad greens
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make it
Use pre-cooked shrimp or cook fresh shrimp and allow to cool completely, as cold shrimp works best for salads. Place fresh, crisp lettuce or mixed greens in a large salad bowl for the best texture and taste.
Add cooked shrimp on top of the lettuce, distributing evenly across the greens for consistent bites. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, starting with less dressing as more can always be added.
Toss gently to combine all ingredients, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
8. Shrimp and Pasta Recipe
Shrimp and pasta is a familiar dinner that adds protein without complicated sauce preparation.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 25 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 20 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 505 | Protein: 33.5g | Fat: 12.5g | Carbs: 63g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make it
Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions, reserving ½ cup pasta water before draining.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add minced garlic, and cook briefly. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Add drained pasta to the skillet with shrimp and toss together, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Drizzle with olive oil if desired and serve immediately while hot.
9. Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe
Shrimp fried rice is an easy way to turn leftover rice into a high protein meal.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 18 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 13 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 386 | Protein: 29.75g | Fat: 15g | Carbs: 34g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups cooked rice (day-old works best)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
How to Make it
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat, add shrimp, and cook quickly for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Remove shrimp from pan and set aside. Add remaining olive oil to the pan and scramble eggs if using, pushing to the side.
Add cold cooked rice, breaking up clumps, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Return shrimp to the pan, add soy sauce, and toss everything together. Cook for 1 minute and serve hot.
10. Shrimp and Vegetables Recipe
This shrimp and vegetables recipe is simple and works well for a balanced high protein dinner.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 20 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 15 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 215 | Protein: 24g | Fat: 12.5g | Carbs: 5g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, onions)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make it
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is hot for proper searing. Add chopped vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
Push vegetables to the sides of the pan, add remaining olive oil and shrimp to the center. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Season everything with salt and pepper, toss the vegetables and shrimp together, and serve immediately while hot.
11. Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Shrimp lettuce wraps are a light option that still provides protein without heavy ingredients.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 15 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 10 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 165 | Protein: 23.5g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 0.5g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8-12 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce or romaine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: shredded carrots, cucumber
How to Make it
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and wait until the oil shimmers before adding shrimp. Add shrimp to the hot pan, season with salt, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until fully pink.
While shrimp cooks, wash and dry large, sturdy lettuce leaves that can hold filling without tearing. Remove cooked shrimp from heat and let cool slightly for easier handling, chopping into bite-sized pieces if desired.
Place shrimp in the center of each lettuce leaf, add optional toppings, wrap, and serve immediately.
12. Shrimp Omelet Recipe
This shrimp omelet combines eggs and shrimp for a simple high protein meal.
Servings: 2
Total Time: 12 minutes (Prep: 3 minutes, Cook: 9 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 360 | Protein: 35g | Fat: 26g | Carbs: 1g
Materials Required
- ½ pound cooked shrimp, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make it
Beat eggs with salt and pepper until well combined. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat and pour in half the egg mixture.
Let eggs cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until edges set, gently pushing edges toward center occasionally. Add half the chopped cooked shrimp to one side.
When eggs are mostly set, fold omelet in half. Cook for another minute, slide onto a plate, and repeat with remaining eggs and shrimp.
13. Shrimp and Quinoa Recipe
Shrimp and quinoa makes a filling bowl that is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 25 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 20 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 271 | Protein: 27g | Fat: 11g | Carbs: 19.5g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make it
Cook quinoa according to package directions if not already prepared, fluffing with a fork when done and keeping warm.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until the pan is hot. Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Divide cooked quinoa evenly among four bowls, creating a base layer in each. Spoon cooked shrimp over the quinoa and serve immediately or allow to cool for meal prep storage.
14. Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Shrimp skewers are simple to cook and easy to portion for dinner or meal prep.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 18 minutes (Prep: 8 minutes, Cook: 10 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 190 | Protein: 23g | Fat: 12.5g | Carbs: 0g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 wooden or metal skewers
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
How to Make it
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning during cooking.
Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, keeping them close together but not touching for even cooking. Brush skewered shrimp with olive oil on both sides and season with salt and paprika if using.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and place skewers in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and slightly charred, turning once.
15. Shrimp Wraps Recipe
These shrimp wraps are a fast dinner option that uses cooked shrimp and simple fillings.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 10 minutes (Prep: 10 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 183 | Protein: 25.25g | Fat: 2g | Carbs: 14g
Materials Required
- 1 pound cooked shrimp
- 4 large flour tortillas or wraps
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- Optional: tomatoes, avocado, sauce
How to Make it
Use pre-cooked shrimp or cook fresh shrimp and allow to cool, chopping into bite-sized pieces for easier wrapping.
Lay tortillas flat on a clean surface and warm them briefly if desired for more pliable wraps. Place shredded lettuce in the center of each tortilla, leaving space on the sides for folding.
Add cooked shrimp on top of the lettuce, distributing evenly among the four wraps. Add optional toppings, fold the sides in, roll tightly, slice in half, and serve immediately.
16. Shrimp and Beans Recipe
Shrimp and beans create a protein focused meal using affordable and easy to find ingredients.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 15 minutes (Prep: 3 minutes, Cook: 12 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 248 | Protein: 28.25g | Fat: 10.75g | Carbs: 15.75g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans or white beans, drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Salt to taste
How to Make it
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add shrimp, and cook until pink, about 5 minutes. Remove cooked shrimp and set aside on a plate, keeping the pan on heat.
Add remaining olive oil and pour in drained beans, warming for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally. Return cooked shrimp to the pan with beans and stir gently to combine without mashing.
Season with cumin and salt to taste, cook together for 1-2 minutes to blend flavors, and serve warm.
17. Shrimp and Spinach Recipe
Shrimp and spinach is a quick skillet meal that keeps ingredients minimal and cooking simple.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 12 minutes (Prep: 3 minutes, Cook: 9 minutes)
Nutritional Value: Calories: 197 | Protein: 24g | Fat: 12.5g | Carbs: 1g
Materials Required
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make it
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic if using and cook briefly. Add shrimp to the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through completely.
Remove shrimp from the pan temporarily. Add remaining olive oil if the pan seems dry. Add fresh spinach to the pan. It will seem like too much but will wilt down significantly in about 2 minutes.
Return shrimp to the pan with the wilted spinach. Toss together, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
What to Pair High Protein Shrimp Recipes With
These high protein shrimp recipes pair well with various sides that add nutrition, texture, and flavor to create complete meals.
- White or Brown Rice: Provides a neutral base that absorbs flavors and adds filling complex carbohydrates to balance the lean protein from shrimp.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add fiber, vitamins, and color while keeping the meal light and nutritious without heavy sauces.
- Simple Green Salad: Fresh lettuce with olive oil and lemon creates a crisp contrast to warm shrimp while adding volume without many calories.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of whole grain or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up any flavorful juices or light sauces from shrimp dishes.
- Roasted Potatoes: Small roasted potato wedges provide satisfying starch and pair especially well with garlic or lemon-based shrimp preparations.
- Pasta: Light pasta options like angel hair or linguine work well with shrimp, creating a more substantial meal when extra carbohydrates are needed.
These pairing options complement shrimp without overwhelming its delicate flavor, making them practical choices for balanced, everyday meals that satisfy nutritional needs.
The Bottom Line
High protein shrimp recipes provide an accessible entry point for home cooks seeking nutritious meals without complicated techniques.
Shrimp’s quick cooking and versatility offer a range of recipes, from simple skillets to wraps and bowls. I’ve gathered these recipes that prove protein-rich dinners need not be complex, helping beginners gain confidence and meet nutrition goals.
Each can be customized with ingredients and preferences. With minimal time investment and straightforward methods, these meals fit easily into busy schedules while delivering satisfying results.
Start with one recipe that appeals most and build from there. Which of these high protein shrimp recipes will you try first? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
