15+ High-Protein Shrimp Dinners for a Nutritious and Delicious Meal

Shrimp is one of the best sources of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for high-protein meals. Not only is it low in calories, but it’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Whether you’re looking to build muscle, maintain a healthy weight, or simply enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal, these 15+ high-protein shrimp dinners will keep you satisfied.

Each recipe is packed with at least 30g of protein per serving, ensuring that you get the energy and nutrients your body needs. Let’s start with five protein-packed shrimp dinners that are easy to prepare and full of bold flavors!


1. Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa (40g Protein Per Serving)

A light yet protein-rich meal with juicy shrimp and fluffy quinoa!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions:

  1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and toss with cooked quinoa.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Why It’s High-Protein: Quinoa provides 8g of protein per cup, and shrimp packs in 24g per serving, making this meal a protein powerhouse!


2. Spicy Shrimp and Chickpea Stir-Fry (35g Protein Per Serving)

A fiber-rich, protein-packed stir-fry with a kick of spice!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • ½ onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic, onion, and bell pepper, and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add shrimp, chickpeas, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp provides 24g of protein per serving, while chickpeas add another 11g, making this dish protein-rich and filling.


3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus (38g Protein Per Serving)

A fresh, citrusy shrimp dish paired with nutrient-dense asparagus!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and asparagus, and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add shrimp, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are opaque.
  4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan (optional) and serve hot.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp contributes 24g of protein, while asparagus adds additional plant-based protein and essential vitamins.


4. Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos (42g Protein Per Serving)

A flavorful, high-protein twist on classic shrimp tacos!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (for topping)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add shrimp, cumin, chili powder, and salt, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are fully cooked.
  3. In a separate pan, heat black beans until warm.
  4. Assemble tacos by layering black beans, shrimp, avocado slices, and Greek yogurt on corn tortillas.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, and serve immediately.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp provides 24g of protein per serving, black beans add 15g, and Greek yogurt boosts it even further!


5. Thai Peanut Shrimp with Brown Rice (45g Protein Per Serving)

A high-protein, flavorful Thai-inspired dish with a creamy peanut sauce!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli

Instructions:

  1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and sesame oil until smooth.
  3. Heat a pan over medium heat and add shrimp, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side.
  4. Pour the peanut sauce over the shrimp and stir well.
  5. Serve over brown rice with steamed broccoli.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp and brown rice contribute a total of 45g of protein, making this meal incredibly satisfying and muscle-building.


6. Shrimp & Lentil Curry (47g Protein Per Serving)

A protein-packed, fiber-rich curry with a rich and creamy texture!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger for 3 minutes.
  2. Add cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes and coconut milk, then simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in cooked lentils and let cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Add shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque.
  6. Serve hot with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp provides 24g of protein per serving, and lentils contribute 23g, making this curry incredibly nutritious and satisfying.


7. Garlic Shrimp with Spinach & Feta (42g Protein Per Serving)

A Mediterranean-inspired shrimp dish that’s loaded with protein and healthy fats!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan and add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute.
  2. Add shrimp, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side.
  3. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. Sprinkle feta cheese and drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp contains 24g of protein, while spinach and feta add additional 18g, making this a light but filling meal.


8. Cajun Shrimp & Quinoa Bowl (44g Protein Per Serving)

A spicy, flavorful shrimp dish with high-protein quinoa!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • ½ onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onions and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side.
  4. Serve shrimp over quinoa, and optionally, add avocado slices for extra healthy fats.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp offers 24g of protein, while quinoa adds 20g, making this dish muscle-building and nutrient-dense.


9. Shrimp & Egg Scramble (50g Protein Per Serving)

A power-packed shrimp and egg scramble loaded with protein and flavor!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 eggs
  • ½ cup egg whites
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add shrimp, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and egg whites, then pour into the pan with shrimp.
  4. Stir continuously to scramble the eggs.
  5. Add cherry tomatoes and shredded cheese (if using), then cook for 2 more minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Why It’s High-Protein: Eggs provide 26g of protein, and shrimp adds 24g, making this a protein-packed powerhouse meal!


10. Shrimp & Edamame Stir-Fry (48g Protein Per Serving)

A quick and healthy shrimp stir-fry packed with plant-based protein!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup shelled edamame
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon ginger, grated
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in shrimp, black pepper, and soy sauce, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side.
  4. Add edamame, broccoli, and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.

11. Shrimp & Sweet Potato Power Bowl (46g Protein Per Serving)

A nutrient-dense, high-protein meal packed with complex carbs, fiber, and lean protein!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 large sweet potato, cubed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and bake for 25 minutes until soft.
  2. While the sweet potatoes are baking, cook quinoa according to package instructions.
  3. In a skillet, cook shrimp with a little olive oil over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  4. Assemble bowls by layering quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, baby spinach, and shrimp.
  5. Optionally, top with avocado slices and serve warm.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp provides 24g of protein, quinoa contributes 20g, and spinach adds extra plant-based protein.


12. Shrimp & Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry (50g Protein Per Serving)

A low-carb, protein-packed alternative to traditional fried rice!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup frozen peas
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, then remove from pan.
  2. Add garlic, peas, and carrots, and sauté for 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in cauliflower rice and soy sauce, cooking for 3 minutes.
  4. Push everything to one side and pour in beaten eggs, scrambling them in the pan.
  5. Return shrimp to the pan, mix well, and garnish with green onions.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp and eggs deliver over 50g of protein, while cauliflower rice keeps it low in carbs and nutrient-dense.


13. Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles (45g Protein Per Serving)

A low-carb, high-protein shrimp dish with a creamy, garlicky sauce!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, then remove from pan.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, then stir in Greek yogurt, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
  3. Toss in zucchini noodles and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Return shrimp to the pan, mix well, and serve topped with Parmesan cheese (optional).

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp provides 24g of protein, and Greek yogurt adds another 21g, making this dish high in protein yet low in carbs!

14. Spicy Shrimp & Black Bean Bowl (47g Protein Per Serving)

A spicy, high-fiber, protein-packed bowl that’s full of bold flavors!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook shrimp with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper for 2–3 minutes per side.
  2. Heat black beans in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Assemble bowls by layering brown rice, black beans, and shrimp.
  4. Top with sliced avocado (optional) and serve warm.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp contributes 24g of protein, black beans add 15g, and brown rice delivers another 8g, making this meal filling and nutrient-dense.


15. Mediterranean Shrimp & Chickpea Salad (44g Protein Per Serving)

A fresh, high-protein salad loaded with Mediterranean flavors!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cucumber, diced
  • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, then let cool.
  2. In a bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, lemon juice, remaining olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Toss in shrimp and mix well.
  4. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Why It’s High-Protein: Shrimp delivers 24g of protein, and chickpeas add another 20g, making this a powerful plant-based and seafood combo!

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