Get ready to spice up your next gathering with these mouth-watering shrimp appetizer recipes! Whether you’re hosting a party for friends, family, or coworkers, these bold and flavorful dishes are sure to impress. From classic combinations like garlic butter and parmesan cheese to more adventurous pairings like spicy sriracha and mango salsa, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into 20 different recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of shrimp. From skewers and sliders to dips and wraps, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, mingling, or as a starter course for your main meal. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and serve up some serious heat with these spicy shrimp appetizers!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and impressive appetizer or main course. Succulent shrimp, garlic, and butter come together to create a dish that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo 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 garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your shrimp game with this addictive fusion of crispy coconut and sweet chili sauce! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup sweet chili sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each shrimp into the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the shrimp from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve immediately with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Honey Shrimp Bites
Spicy Sriracha Honey Shrimp Bites: A Sweet and Savory Treat
These bite-sized morsels combine the sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of sriracha, all wrapped up in tender shrimp. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, sriracha sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the shrimp on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Brown Sugar Glaze
This indulgent appetizer combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of brown sugar, all wrapped up in succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 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, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each shrimp.
5. Brush the brown sugar glaze evenly over the bacon-wrapped shrimp.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp Ceviche in Cucumber Cups
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico and Asia to create a unique and delicious appetizer perfect for hot summer days. Fresh shrimp, lime juice, and cucumber cups come together to create a refreshing and light dish.
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
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 cucumber cups (about 1 inch in diameter)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, place a spoonful of the ceviche mixture into each cucumber cup.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is perfect for warm weather as it doesn’t require any cooking.
Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps: A Twist on a Classic
These addictive lettuce wraps are a spin on the popular Bang Bang Shrimp dish from Bonefish Grill. Crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy veggies come together in a low-carb, flavorful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated
– 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dredge shrimp in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Dip floured shrimp in buttermilk, then coat with a pinch of paprika and garlic powder.
3. Fry shrimp in hot oil until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Prepare sauce by mixing cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and honey until smooth.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked shrimp on lettuce leaves, topping with crispy onions and drizzling with Bang Bang Sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent twist on traditional shrimp – Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp!
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each shrimp with about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture, leaving room at the top for expansion during cooking.
4. Place stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the shrimp.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and refreshing twist on classic bruschetta. Succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and a hint of citrus come together to create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss shrimp with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. In a bowl, mix together avocado, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
5. Top toasted bread with a spoonful of the avocado mixture, followed by a few shrimp.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Thai Chili Lime Shrimp Summer Rolls
Elevate your summer gatherings with these refreshing Thai-inspired shrimp rolls. Crisp vegetables and succulent shrimp are wrapped in a delicate rice paper, then tossed in a zesty chili lime sauce for added flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (cucumber, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Rice paper wrappers (about 12-15)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by mixing together shrimp, mixed greens, cilantro, Thai red curry paste, lime juice, and honey.
2. Lay a rice paper wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the shrimp mixture in the center.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Serve immediately with additional chili lime sauce for dipping (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and visually stunning recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, tangy Parmesan, and savory garlic on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 until pink and just set, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble crostini by placing a toasted baguette slice on each plate, topping with a cooked shrimp, and sprinkling with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Mushrooms
Get ready to spice up your dinner game with this flavorful dish that combines the richness of mushrooms with the boldness of Cajun seasoning and succulent shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, sauté shrimp in butter until pink and cooked through. Season with Cajun seasoning blend.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the shrimp mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheese over the filling.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Tempura with Wasabi Mayo
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful Japanese-inspired dish. Shrimp tempura, when paired with a spicy kick of wasabi mayonnaise, makes for an unbeatable combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Wasabi mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
3. Dip shrimp into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch deep vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain tempura on paper towels.
7. Serve with wasabi mayonnaise for dipping, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Mango Shrimp Salsa
Add a tropical twist to your snack or meal with this vibrant and flavorful Spicy Mango Shrimp Salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chilled
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, shrimp, jalapeño, and red onion.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready to serve immediately.
Tips:
– Use fresh, ripe mango for the best flavor.
– Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less jalapeño.
– Enjoy as a snack with tortilla chips, use as a topping for tacos or grilled meats, or add to salsas and salads for an extra boost.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp on tortillas, topping with pineapple salsa, and adding optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons
These bite-sized wontons are filled with succulent shrimp and cream cheese, then pan-fried to a golden brown perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, cream cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 teaspoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add a few wontons (do not overcrowd) and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Remove the cooked wontons from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of wontons you fry at once.
Blackened Shrimp and Corn Dip
This bold and savory dip combines succulent blackened shrimp with creamy corn and spices, perfect for dipping crudités or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until pink and blackened.
5. In a separate bowl, combine corn kernels, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chopped jalapeño.
6. Serve the blackened shrimp on top of the corn dip and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (shrimp) + 5 minutes (dip preparation)
Shrimp Cocktail Shooters with Bloody Mary Sauce
Elevate your cocktail game with these bite-sized shrimp cocktails, perfectly seasoned with a tangy Bloody Mary sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup Bloody Mary mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Bloody Mary mix, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Just before serving, stir in salt and pepper to taste.
4. Fill mini glasses or shot cups with ice.
5. Place 1-2 marinated shrimp per glass.
6. Spoon Bloody Mary sauce over the shrimp.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinade time)
Enjoy your delicious and easy Shrimp Cocktail Shooters with Bloody Mary Sauce!
Lemon Pepper Shrimp Skewers with Tzatziki
Brighten up your summer with these refreshing and flavorful shrimp skewers, served with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pita bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Shrimp and Chorizo Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and vibrant dish by filling them with succulent shrimp, spicy chorizo, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 chorizos, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp, chorizo, onion, and garlic; cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each pepper with the shrimp mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Glazed Shrimp Meatballs
Sweet and Spicy Glazed Shrimp Meatballs Recipe
Elevate your appetizer game with these succulent shrimp meatballs smothered in a sweet and spicy glaze. Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet and Spicy Glaze (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Sweet and Spicy Glaze:
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the Sweet and Spicy Glaze by whisking all ingredients together in a small bowl.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with the glaze.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your appetizer game with these 20 mouth-watering shrimp recipes! From classic garlic butter skewers to innovative dishes like Bang Bang Shrimp Lettuce Wraps and Spicy Sriracha Honey Shrimp Bites, there’s something for every taste bud. Impress your crowd with sweet and spicy glazed shrimp meatballs or crispy coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing ceviche or a rich and indulgent parmesan garlic crostini, these recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite.
