20 Delicious High Protein Shrimp Recipes for Muscle Growth

Are you looking for a delicious way to boost your protein intake and support muscle growth? Look no further! Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, and when combined with the right ingredients and cooking methods, can make for some incredibly tasty meals. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 high protein shrimp recipes that are perfect for fitness enthusiasts and foodies alike.

From classic dishes like garlic butter shrimp to innovative combinations like shrimp and avocado protein bowls, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen while fueling your body with the nutrients it needs. Whether you’re a busy professional or an athlete looking for a post-workout snack, these high protein shrimp recipes are sure to please.

Stay tuned as we dive into each of these mouth-watering meals and share our favorite tips and tricks for cooking up a storm!

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa

A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines succulent shrimp with the nutty goodness of quinoa, all tied together with a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup quinoa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add chicken broth to the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
7. Serve shrimp on top of quinoa, spooning some garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these mouth-watering shrimp skewers infused with a spicy kick! Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or appetizer, this recipe is sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, sriracha sauce, honey, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with chopped cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Shrimp and Avocado Protein Bowl

A flavorful and nutritious bowl that combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, quinoa, and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and fully cooked.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with the cooked shrimp, sliced avocado mixture, and chopped cilantro.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cajun Blackened Shrimp with Sweet Potatoes

This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all in one delicious dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic, and butter.
4. Add shrimp to the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Place shrimp on a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until blackened.
6. Serve shrimp with roasted sweet potatoes and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A bright and citrusy twist on a classic stir-fry, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with crunchy broccoli and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and ginger.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
5. Add broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Pour in lemon-garlic sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. Return shrimp to the pan and toss with broccoli and sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Shrimp and Egg White Scramble

A protein-packed breakfast or brunch option that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the shrimp and onions in the skillet.
6. Cook until the eggs are almost set, stirring occasionally, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add the minced garlic and stir to combine.
8. Season with pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

High Protein Shrimp Tacos with Greek Yogurt Sauce

Summary: Boost your protein intake with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, combining succulent shrimp with a creamy Greek yogurt sauce, all wrapped in crispy taco shells.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Greek yogurt sauce (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, cilantro

Greek Yogurt Sauce:

– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp mixture onto a shell, followed by a dollop of Greek yogurt sauce. Add desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp and Spinach Protein Pasta

This protein-packed pasta dish is a great option for a healthy lunch or dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Shrimp, spinach, and whole wheat spaghetti come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, shrimp mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Air Fryer Shrimp with Edamame

Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and healthy snack with this easy-to-make Air Fryer Shrimp with Edamame recipe. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have succulent shrimp and crispy edamame that are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and cut in half
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder and paprika for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the edamame to the Air Fryer basket; drizzle with remaining olive oil.
5. Cook for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
6. Add the shrimp to the Air Fryer basket; toss gently to combine with the edamame.
7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Shrimp and Chickpea Curry

A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add shrimp and chickpeas. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in coconut milk. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Protein-Packed Shrimp Fried Cauliflower Rice

Get ready to upgrade your rice game with this protein-packed twist! This recipe combines the convenience of cauliflower rice with the flavor and nutrition of succulent shrimp.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp and Cottage Cheese Salad

This salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy cottage cheese, crunchy veggies, and a hint of lemon for a delightful summer treat. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it’s also an excellent addition to any outdoor gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice and cottage cheese until smooth.
2. Add the shrimp, red bell pepper, cucumber, and parsley to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chill time)

Grilled Shrimp and Asparagus with Tahini Drizzle

A flavorful and refreshing summer dish that combines the sweetness of grilled shrimp and asparagus with the richness of tahini sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, place asparagus on a separate part of the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, garlic, and water to make the drizzle sauce.
5. Serve grilled shrimp and asparagus with the tahini drizzle spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Shrimp and Lentil Stew

Shrimp and Lentil Stew Recipe

This hearty stew is a perfect blend of protein-packed shrimp and fiber-rich lentils, simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked lentils and shrimp mixture in the large pot. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.

Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes.

High Protein Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers

This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of shrimp and quinoa, making it a nutritious and filling meal option. With 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to boost their protein intake.

Ingredients:

– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese crumbles for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked.
5. Stir in quinoa, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the shrimp mixture and top with feta cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Shrimp and Black Bean Lettuce Wraps

A flavorful and nutritious wrap filled with succulent shrimp, savory black beans, and crunchy lettuce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine work well)
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir for 1 minute.
6. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble wraps by placing shrimp, black bean mixture, and desired toppings onto a warmed lettuce leaf.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp and Tofu Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce

This flavorful stir-fry combines succulent shrimp and crispy tofu with the richness of peanut sauce, served over a bed of steaming hot rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, shrimp, and tofu; cook until the shrimp are pink and the tofu is golden brown.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, and coconut milk.
4. Pour the peanut sauce into the wok and stir to combine with the ingredients.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with chopped peanuts or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp and Barley Protein Pilaf

This shrimp and barley pilaf is a protein-packed meal that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the nutty flavor of barley. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup uncooked pearl barley
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the barley in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the cooked barley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, with lemon juice squeezed on top if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Baked Shrimp with Parmesan and Almond Crust

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and crunchy baked shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, almonds, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
4. Place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle the almond-Parmesan mixture evenly over the shrimp.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp and crust.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Shrimp and Kale Protein Smoothie Bowl

Kick-start your day with a nutrient-dense breakfast smoothie packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, curly kale, and creamy Greek yogurt for a delicious and revitalizing start to your morning.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup frozen shrimp
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine shrimp, kale, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and chia seeds.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into a bowl and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Summary

Get ready to fuel your muscle growth with these delicious high protein shrimp recipes! From classic garlic butter shrimp with quinoa to innovative dishes like shrimp and avocado protein bowls, there’s something for every taste. Spicy grilled skewers, Cajun blackened shrimp, and lemon garlic stir-fries will satisfy your cravings while providing a boost of protein. Try high-protein tacos, pasta dishes, or even smoothie bowls featuring shrimp as the star ingredient. These recipes are perfect for fitness enthusiasts and foodies alike. Explore this collection of 20 mouth-watering shrimp recipes to take your protein intake to the next level!