10 Keto Shrimp Recipes That'll Make You Forget You're on a Diet

Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, you’re trying to stick to your keto goals, and you need something delicious on the table fast. Enter shrimp—your new best friend! These 10 keto shrimp recipes are so incredibly flavorful and satisfying that you’ll actually look forward to meal prep.

I’ve personally tried every single one, and let me tell you, the garlic butter version has become a weekly staple in my house. Shrimp cooks in under 5 minutes, making it perfect for those of us who want restaurant-quality meals without the hassle. If you loved my keto chicken thighs recipe, you’re going to absolutely adore these seafood creations!

What Are Keto Shrimp Recipes?

Ever wonder why shrimp and keto go together like peanut butter and jelly? Well, shrimp is naturally low in carbs and high in protein—basically a keto dream come true! These recipes take this amazing seafood and dress it up in buttery sauces, zesty seasonings, and creamy textures that’ll make your taste buds dance.

You know what they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these dishes prove it! Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, these recipes will make you feel like a chef. Ready to dive in?

Why You’ll Love These Keto Shrimp Recipes

Restaurant-Quality Meals at Home

The biggest win here? You’re getting gourmet-style dishes without the hefty price tag. Restaurant shrimp dishes can cost $20-30 per plate, but making these at home costs a fraction of that—usually around $8-12 per serving. Plus, you control exactly what goes into your food, ensuring it stays perfectly keto-friendly.

Quick and Effortless Cooking

Most of these recipes take less than 20 minutes from start to finish. I’m talking faster than ordering takeout! The beauty of shrimp is that it cooks incredibly quickly, so you’re never stuck in the kitchen for hours. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner ASAP.

Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

From spicy Cajun seasonings to creamy garlic butter sauces, these recipes pack serious flavor without the carbs. The combination of herbs, spices, and healthy fats creates dishes that are so satisfying, you won’t even miss the pasta or rice. If you enjoyed my keto salmon recipes, you’ll love how versatile shrimp can be!

Ready to transform your keto meal planning? Let’s get cooking and discover why shrimp should be your go-to protein!

How to Make These Amazing Keto Shrimp Recipes

Quick Overview

These 10 keto shrimp recipes are designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Each dish features tender, juicy shrimp paired with rich sauces and bold seasonings.

Created with AI guidance and not cooked in our kitchen, this recipe is shared with our best attempt at accuracy.

Time Breakdown:

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes per recipe
Cook Time: 5-15 minutes per recipe
Total Time: 15-25 minutes per recipe

The beauty is in the simplicity—most recipes require just one pan and basic ingredients you probably already have!

Key Ingredients for Keto Shrimp Recipes

Essential Ingredients:

1-2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 tablespoons butter or ghee
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Creamy Variations:

½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup cream cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Spicy Variations:

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Fresh Herbs:

Fresh parsley (chopped)
Fresh basil
Cilantro
Dill

Step-by-Step Instructions

Recipe 1: Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp

How to Make Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp

Step 1: Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice sear! Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter stops foaming—that’s when you know it’s ready.

Step 3: Add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2 minutes on the first side without moving them. You want that beautiful golden color!

Step 4: Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them to a plate immediately—don’t overcook!

Step 5: In the same pan, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 6: Add fresh lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let it bubble for 10 seconds, then return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. The whole process takes about 10 minutes!

Recipe 2: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

Step 1: Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the shrimp in butter for 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on a warm plate.

Step 3: In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and add cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 5: Add fresh baby spinach and let it wilt into the sauce for about 2 minutes. The spinach adds great color and nutrition!

Step 6: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 7: Return the shrimp to the pan and simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through. The shrimp will absorb some of that incredible creamy flavor.

Recipe 3: Spicy Cajun Shrimp

How to Make Spicy Cajun Shrimp

Step 1: In a bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust the heat level to your preference.

Step 2: Toss the shrimp in the spice mixture until evenly coated. Make sure every piece gets covered!

Step 3: Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s almost smoking. This high heat is key for that perfect char.

Step 4: Add the shrimp and let them sear for 2 minutes without moving them. You want those crispy, slightly blackened edges.

Step 5: Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until just cooked through.

Step 6: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and toss with fresh cilantro.

Step 7: Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side. This dish has serious kick!

Recipe 4: Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

How to Make Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

Step 1: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and rosemary.

Step 3: Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for 15 minutes while you preheat the grill.

Step 4: Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, making sure they’re secure and not too crowded.

Step 5: Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp should have beautiful grill marks.

Step 6: Brush with any remaining marinade during cooking for extra flavor.

Step 7: Remove from grill and serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Perfect for summer cookouts!

Recipe 5: Coconut Curry Shrimp

How to Make Coconut Curry Shrimp

Step 1: Season shrimp with salt and a pinch of turmeric. Set aside.

Step 2: In a large pan, heat coconut oil and sauté diced onions until translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add minced ginger, garlic, and curry powder. Cook for 1 minute until incredibly fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in full-fat coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. The sauce should be thick and creamy.

Step 5: Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.

Step 6: Stir in fresh lime juice and season with salt to taste.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.

Recipe 6: Pesto Shrimp

How to Make Pesto Shrimp

Step 1: Make fresh basil pesto by blending basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. You can also use store-bought pesto to save time.

Step 2: Cook shrimp in butter over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side.

Step 3: Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Add the pesto to the hot pan and let it warm through for about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the pesto.

Step 6: Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook just until they start to soften, about 1 minute.

Step 7: Finish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. So fresh and vibrant!

Recipe 7: Shrimp Scampi

How to Make Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until golden and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side.

Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 6: Add more butter and swirl the pan to create a silky sauce.

Step 7: Toss with fresh parsley and serve over zucchini noodles for a complete keto meal.

Recipe 8: Mediterranean Shrimp

How to Make Mediterranean Shrimp

Step 1: Season shrimp with oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a pan and cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: In the same pan, sauté diced tomatoes, kalamata olives, and capers for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 5: Crumble in feta cheese and let it soften slightly in the warm mixture.

Step 6: Return shrimp to the pan and toss everything together.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh dill and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Transport yourself to Greece!

Recipe 9: Bang Bang Shrimp

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: For the sauce, mix sugar-free mayo, sugar-free sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust spice level to taste.

Step 2: Season shrimp with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Dredge shrimp in almond flour mixed with garlic powder and paprika.

Step 4: Pan-fry shrimp in avocado oil for 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Remove shrimp and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Toss the crispy shrimp in the bang bang sauce until well coated.

Step 7: Serve immediately garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Addictively delicious!

Recipe 10: Lemon Butter Shrimp with Asparagus

How to Make Lemon Butter Shrimp with Asparagus

Step 1: Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces.

Step 2: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Don’t overcook—it should still have a nice snap!

Step 4: Push asparagus to the side of the pan and add shrimp to the center.

Step 5: Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.

Step 6: Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss everything together.

Step 7: Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. A complete one-pan meal in 15 minutes!

What to Serve Keto Shrimp Recipes With

Low-Carb Vegetable Sides:

Cauliflower rice (perfect for soaking up sauces!)
Zucchini noodles or “zoodles”
Roasted broccoli with garlic
Sautéed spinach or kale
Grilled asparagus

Salad Options:

Caesar salad with Parmesan crisps
Greek salad with feta and olives
Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella

Other Keto-Friendly Pairings:

Cauliflower mash (tastes just like mashed potatoes!)
Avocado slices or guacamole
Garlic butter mushrooms
Cheesy Brussels sprouts
Keto garlic bread made with almond flour

Drinks:

Sparkling water with lemon
Unsweetened iced tea
Fresh mint water
Herbal teas

Top Tips for Perfecting Keto Shrimp Recipes

Don’t Overcook Your Shrimp

This is the #1 mistake people make! Shrimp cook incredibly fast—usually 2-3 minutes total. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. The moment you see that lovely pink color throughout, remove them from heat immediately.

Always Pat Shrimp Dry

Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Before cooking, use paper towels to thoroughly pat your shrimp dry. This simple step ensures you get that beautiful golden crust instead of steaming the shrimp in their own moisture.

Use the Right Pan Temperature

Medium-high heat is your sweet spot for most shrimp recipes. The pan should be hot enough that the shrimp sizzle when they hit it, but not so hot that the butter or oil burns. If you’re using a non-stick pan, medium heat works better to protect the coating.

Don’t Crowd the Pan

Give your shrimp space to breathe! If you pack them too tightly, they’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary—it’s worth the extra few minutes for perfectly cooked shrimp.

Season Generously

Shrimp can handle bold flavors, so don’t be shy with seasonings. Since they cook so quickly, they don’t have much time to absorb flavors, so proper seasoning before cooking is crucial.

Save the Garlic for Last

If you’re making garlic butter shrimp, cook the shrimp first, then add the garlic. Garlic burns easily and becomes bitter when cooked too long or at too high a temperature.

Buy Quality Shrimp

Wild-caught shrimp typically have better flavor and texture than farmed varieties. If using frozen shrimp (which is totally fine!), thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.

Use Butter for Flavor

Butter adds incredible richness to shrimp dishes. If you’re dairy-free, ghee is an excellent substitute that provides similar flavor without the lactose.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp are completely cooled before storing. Keep any sauces in a separate container to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy.

Freezing Instructions: While you can freeze cooked shrimp, I don’t recommend it for these saucy recipes as the texture changes significantly. If you must freeze, do so within 24 hours of cooking. Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Best Reheating Methods: The key to reheating shrimp is to do it quickly and gently to avoid overcooking:

Stovetop Method (Best): Heat a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of butter or oil. Add shrimp and warm for 1-2 minutes, tossing frequently. This method keeps them tender.
Microwave Method (Quick): Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Don’t overdo it!
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 300°F, place shrimp in an oven-safe dish with a little butter or sauce, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes.

Pro Tip: If reheating creamy sauces, add a splash of heavy cream or broth to restore the silky texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Pre-Cooked Shrimp for These Recipes

These recipes are designed for raw shrimp. Pre-cooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery when heated again. Always use raw shrimp for the best results.

Not Deveining Shrimp Properly

That dark line along the back of the shrimp is the digestive tract. While it’s not harmful, it can be gritty and unpleasant. Take the extra minute to remove it for the best eating experience.

Forgetting to Season Both Sides

Season shrimp on both sides, not just one. This ensures even flavor distribution throughout the dish.

Using Too Much Oil

Shrimp release their own moisture as they cook, so you don’t need tons of oil. Too much oil makes the dish greasy and can cause splattering.

Cooking Straight from Frozen

Always thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. Cooking from frozen results in excess water in the pan, which prevents proper browning and can make your sauces watery.

Turning Shrimp Too Often

Let shrimp cook undisturbed for the full 2 minutes on each side. Constant flipping prevents that gorgeous golden crust from forming.

Not Tasting as You Go

Always taste your sauce before finishing the dish. You might need more salt, acid (lemon juice), or heat (red pepper flakes) to balance the flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout, forming a “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re overcooked. The internal temperature should reach 120°F. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes per side depending on size.

Can I use frozen shrimp for these recipes?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp are often fresher than “fresh” shrimp at the grocery store since they’re frozen right on the boat. Just make sure to thaw them completely overnight in the refrigerator and pat them very dry before cooking.

What size shrimp should I buy?

For these recipes, large shrimp (31-40 count per pound) or jumbo shrimp (21-25 count per pound) work best. They’re easier to handle and less likely to overcook. The count indicates how many shrimp are in one pound—lower numbers mean bigger shrimp.

Are shrimp keto-friendly?

Yes! Shrimp are naturally very low in carbs (less than 1g per serving) and high in protein, making them perfect for keto. A 3-ounce serving contains about 20g of protein and zero carbs. Just watch the sauces and avoid adding flour or breadcrumbs.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan is properly heated before adding shrimp, use enough oil or butter, and don’t move the shrimp around too much. Let them develop a crust on one side before flipping. A well-seasoned cast iron or non-stick pan helps tremendously.

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

While shrimp are best cooked fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead of time. Marinate the shrimp, chop vegetables, and measure out spices in advance. When you’re ready to cook, everything comes together in minutes. Cooked shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 3 days but taste best when freshly made.

Why do my shrimp taste fishy?

Fresh or properly frozen shrimp shouldn’t taste overly fishy. If they do, they may not be fresh. Always smell shrimp before buying—they should smell like clean ocean water, not strong or ammonia-like. Proper storage and quick cooking also help maintain their sweet, delicate flavor.

What’s the white stuff that comes out of shrimp when cooking?

That’s albumin, a protein that coagulates when heated. It’s completely normal and harmless. You can minimize it by not overcooking the shrimp and cooking them at the right temperature—not too hot, not too cool.

Can I substitute chicken for shrimp in these recipes?

While you could use chicken, you’d need to adjust cooking times significantly since chicken takes much longer to cook than shrimp. Chicken would need 6-8 minutes per side instead of 2-3. The flavors would still be delicious, though!

Are the tails edible?

Technically yes, but most people remove them before eating. I prefer buying shrimp with tails on because they add flavor during cooking and make the dish look more elegant. Your guests can easily remove them while eating.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	245
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	285mg
Sodium	890mg
Total Carbohydrates	2g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Net Carbs	2g
Protein	23g

Note: Nutrition values vary by recipe. This is an estimate for the basic garlic butter shrimp.

Final Thoughts

These 10 keto shrimp recipes have genuinely transformed my weeknight dinner routine. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating restaurant-quality meals in your own kitchen, especially when they’re this quick and keto-friendly.

My personal favorite is still that classic garlic butter shrimp—it never gets old! But I love rotating through these recipes to keep things interesting. The creamy Tuscan version is perfect for cozy nights, while the Cajun shrimp brings the heat when I’m craving something spicy.

The best part? You’re getting premium protein and healthy fats without any of the carbs that would kick you out of ketosis. Each recipe keeps you satisfied and energized while supporting your health goals.

I hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and discover just how versatile and delicious keto eating can be. Shrimp truly is the ultimate keto protein—quick to cook, endlessly adaptable, and absolutely delicious.

So grab some shrimp, pick your favorite recipe, and get cooking! Your taste buds (and your keto goals) will thank you. Don’t forget to let me know which recipe becomes your favorite—I love hearing from you!

Happy cooking, and here’s to delicious, healthy eating!