20 Flavorful Steamed Shrimp Recipes for Seafood Lovers

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April 10, 2025

Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to prepare delicious shrimp dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of steamed shrimp and explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic garlic butter and lemon herb flavors to spicy Cajun and Thai basil twists, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Steaming is a great way to cook shrimp because it helps preserve their natural flavor and texture. And when you add in some creative seasonings and sauces, the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a impressive meal to serve at your next gathering, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.

Garlic Butter Steamed Shrimp

Garlic Butter Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Steamed Shrimp recipe.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your steamer basket by boiling water in a pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Place the shrimp in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each shellfish.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Steam the shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired) and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Lemon Herb Steamed Shrimp

Lemon Herb Steamed Shrimp
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Steam the shrimp for 4-6 minutes per pound, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes

Spicy Cajun Steamed Shrimp

Spicy Cajun Steamed Shrimp
Add a kick to your seafood with this flavorful and spicy cajun steamed shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat the steamer basket with 1-2 inches of water. Place the marinated shrimp in the steamer and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lemon slices on top (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Coconut Milk Steamed Shrimp

Coconut Milk Steamed Shrimp
Coconut Milk Steamed Shrimp Recipe

Experience the creamy, savory flavors of Thailand with this simple and flavorful recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the shrimp to the saucepan and stir gently to coat evenly.
5. Reduce heat to low and steam for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Soy Ginger Steamed Shrimp

Soy Ginger Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make soy ginger steamed shrimp dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the shrimp and water to the pan, making sure they are covered with the liquid.
3. Cover the pan with a lid and steam over medium heat for 4-6 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes

Servings: 2-4

Thai Basil Steamed Shrimp

Thai Basil Steamed Shrimp
This Thai-inspired dish combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with the pungency of basil, all steamed to perfection. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine shrimp, garlic, ginger, and Thai basil leaves.
3. Steam over boiling water for 4-6 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Thai basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Old Bay Steamed Shrimp

Old Bay Steamed Shrimp
Add a burst of flavor to your shrimp with this simple and delicious Old Bay steaming recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
– 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot, combine the Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the shrimp.
5. Cover the pot and steam for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Beer Steamed Shrimp with Old Bay

Beer Steamed Shrimp with Old Bay
Experience the perfect blend of beer-soaked flavor and spicy kick with this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup beer (any type you prefer)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning; toss to coat.
5. Pour in the beer and bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Chinese Tea-Smoked Steamed Shrimp

Chinese Tea-Smoked Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the subtlety of tea-smoking with the tenderness of steaming. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner party or a relaxing evening at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons loose-leaf Chinese black tea (such as Keemun or Lapsang Souchong)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the tea smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tea leaves, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Add the shrimp mixture and stir until well coated.
4. Place the shrimp on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with thinly sliced scallions and a drizzle of soy sauce if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Garlic and Black Pepper Steamed Shrimp

Garlic and Black Pepper Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful recipe that highlights the sweetness of shrimp, paired with the pungency of garlic and black pepper.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and black pepper.
3. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a heatproof plate or steamer basket.
4. Dot the top of each shrimp with butter.
5. Sprinkle the garlic-black pepper mixture evenly over the shrimp.
6. Steam the shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Lemongrass Steamed Shrimp

Lemongrass Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this aromatic and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine chopped lemongrass, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp to the steamer basket, leaving some space between each shell.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Steam over boiling water for 4-6 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes

Jalapeño Lime Steamed Shrimp

Jalapeño Lime Steamed Shrimp
Add a burst of flavor to your shrimp with this simple and spicy recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, sliced jalapeños, garlic, and lime juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
4. Cover the pot and steam the shrimp for 4-6 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 1 minute.
6. Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

White Wine Steamed Shrimp

White Wine Steamed Shrimp
This recipe yields a deliciously tender and flavorful dish with minimal effort. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to impress your dinner guests.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add white wine to the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet, placing them in a single layer. Cover with a lid.
5. Steam the shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
6. Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp, and season with salt and pepper.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Sesame Soy Steamed Shrimp

Sesame Soy Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and healthy Sesame Soy Steamed Shrimp recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish is easy to make and packed with nutty sesame flavor and savory soy notes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and ginger.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat your steamer basket with 2 inches of water. Steam the shrimp for 4-6 minutes, until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Cilantro Lime Steamed Shrimp

Cilantro Lime Steamed Shrimp
Brighten up your dinner with the zesty and refreshing flavors of cilantro lime steamed shrimp.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the lime juice and stir to combine.
5. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or as a standalone appetizer.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Garlic Chili Oil Steamed Shrimp

Garlic Chili Oil Steamed Shrimp
This recipe combines the simplicity of steaming shrimp with the bold flavors of garlic and chili oil, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy this tasty dish in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons garlic chili oil (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine garlic chili oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the saucepan, leaving some space between each shrimp.
4. Cover the saucepan with a lid and steam over boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink.
5. Remove the shrimp from heat and stir in lemon juice.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Ginger Scallion Steamed Shrimp

Ginger Scallion Steamed Shrimp
This recipe combines the simplicity of steaming with the bold flavors of ginger and scallions to create a deliciously aromatic and savory dish. Perfect for a quick and impressive meal or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced into thin coins
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the pot.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ginger, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
4. Add shrimp to the steamer basket and pour the ginger mixture evenly over the top.
5. Steam for 4-6 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes

Five-Spice Steamed Shrimp

Five-Spice Steamed Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with the warm, aromatic flavors of five-spice powder.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Fresh green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. If using garlic, minced it and add it to the bowl, tossing to combine.
5. Steam the shrimp over boiling water for 4-6 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes

Coconut Curry Steamed Shrimp

Coconut Curry Steamed Shrimp
This aromatic and flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with the warmth of coconut curry, all steamed to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a large steamer basket, combine shrimp and water.
2. Add the shredded coconut, curry powder, ginger, salt, and pepper to the shrimp.
3. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted coconut flakes if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Tom Yum Steamed Shrimp

Tom Yum Steamed Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and delicious Tom Yum Steamed Shrimp recipe. In just a few steps, you’ll be enjoying a spicy and sour shrimp dish that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons tom yum paste (Thai red curry paste)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh lemongrass
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine water, tom yum paste, fish sauce, and lime juice. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemongrass and mushrooms. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the pot and cook until they’re pink and fully cooked, about 4-6 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the delicious world of steamed shrimp! This collection of 20 flavorful recipes offers something for every seafood lover. From classic garlic butter and lemon herb, to spicy Cajun and Asian-inspired coconut curry, there’s a dish to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or an impressive dinner party recipe, these steamed shrimp dishes are sure to please. With flavors ranging from old bay to Thai basil, there’s no shortage of inspiration to be found in this mouth-watering article.

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