15+ December Shrimp Skillet Dinners Fast Flavorful Meals

The cold evenings of December always pull me toward the stove a little sooner than usual, especially on those nights when I haven’t planned a thing. It’s funny how shrimp—frozen or fresh—sits quietly in the freezer, waiting to be turned into something colorful and fast. There’s a certain comfort in hearing shrimp hit a hot skillet, the aroma curling up as dinner comes together in under half an hour. That’s exactly why December shrimp skillet dinners are a staple around here: fast, flavorful, and perfect for everyone who wants to eat well without fussing all night.

1. Garlic Butter Shrimp & Spinach Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

This is one of those weeknight wonders that feels a bit luxurious but is always practical. The garlicky butter keeps things rich without being heavy, and the spinach makes you feel good about dinner. It’s great for when you’ve got a bag of shrimp and a half-empty box of baby greens.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minutes.
3. Stir in the shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side, until just pink.
4. Toss in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Add lemon slices, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for subtle heat.

Meal Prep Tip: Leftovers reheat well for a quick lunch—just don’t overcook the shrimp when reheating.

2. Cajun Shrimp & Andouille Sausage Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Perfect for nights when you want bold flavor with zero hassle. The smokiness from sausage and punch from Cajun spices always satisfies. It’s a hearty crowd-pleaser, especially served over rice.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown sausage slices for 2–3 minutes, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté peppers and onions until soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes.
5. Return sausage to the skillet, toss everything together, and sprinkle with parsley.

Swap This With That: Try turkey sausage if you want something lighter.

Serving Idea: Serve it over grits or steamed rice for a Southern touch.

3. Shrimp Pesto Pasta Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Somehow, pesto makes shrimp feel extra special. Tossing pasta and shrimp together in one skillet is my go-to for rushed nights but it never feels rushed. Kids and adults both dive in.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
2. Heat oil in a skillet, add shrimp, and cook until pink, about 4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes and cook 2 minutes until soft.
4. Toss in cooked pasta and reserved water, then stir in pesto.
5. Season and top with parmesan and basil before serving.

Flavor Boost: Add zest of half a lemon before serving for extra brightness.

Best Pairings: Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

4. Shrimp Fajita Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

A sizzling skillet with colorful peppers and juicy shrimp is impossible to resist. This comes together so quickly, and everyone can build their own tortillas right at the dinner table.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 each red, yellow, and green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Flour tortillas, for serving
• Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Toss shrimp with half the spices and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet, add onions and peppers, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Push veggies to the side and add shrimp.
4. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until done.
5. Toss everything together in the skillet and serve with tortillas and lime.

Swap This With That: Try corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Flavor Boost: Top with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of hot sauce.

5. Soy-Ginger Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

This is dinner and takeout craving satisfaction in one. The savory sauce clings to the shrimp and broccoli and soaks right into a bowl of rice—plus, it all happens in one pan.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 scallions, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Whisk together soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, honey, and sesame oil.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet, cook broccoli 4 minutes until bright.
3. Add shrimp, cook 3–4 minutes until pink.
4. Pour sauce in, add slurry, and stir until everything is coated and thickened.
5. Top with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.

Best Pairings: Try with steamed white or brown rice and cucumber salad.

Personal Note: This one hits all the takeout cravings without leaving home.

6. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Pasta lovers will appreciate how orzo soaks up every bit of garlicky lemon flavor. Shrimp, orzo, and peas combine for a cozy meal that still feels light, making it easy for busy nights.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet, add garlic, and sauté 1 minutes.
2. Add orzo and stir for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add peas, cook until liquid is mostly absorbed, about 8 minutes.
5. Stir in shrimp, lemon juice, and zest. Cook until shrimp are pink.
6. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley.

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine when cooking orzo.

Meal Prep Tip: Leftovers keep well for next-day lunches.

7. Shrimp & Tomato Rice Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Think of this as a shortcut paella—everything cooks together, and the tomatoes and rice make it filling and homey. It’s great for when you want a “complete” dinner in a single pan.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup long grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet and cook onion and garlic until soft.
2. Stir in rice and paprika, cook 1 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes and broth, bring to a boil.
4. Lower to simmer, cover, and cook 15 minutes.
5. Stir in peas and layer shrimp on top; cover and cook until shrimp are pink, about 5–7 minutes.
6. Finish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Frozen mixed veggies can stand in for peas.

Serving Idea: Add a side of crusty bread for a heartier meal.

8. Shrimp & Corn Skillet with Bacon

Why You’ll Love It:

There’s something nostalgic about sautéed corn and bacon—add shrimp, and it’s even better. This is the kind of meal you whip up when the fridge is running low, and it always impresses.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 2 cups frozen corn, thawed
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Cook bacon in large skillet until crisp, remove and set aside.
2. Drain excess fat except for 1 tablespoon.
3. Add garlic and corn, sauté 5 minutes.
4. Push corn aside, add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Stir everything together, top with bacon, green onions, and parsley.

Swap This With That: Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook the shrimp or they’ll turn rubbery.

9. Spicy Chipotle Shrimp Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

The smoky heat from chipotle peppers mixed with shrimp brings serious flavor without much effort. This dish is excellent for those nights you want to spice things up.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet, add garlic and chipotle, and cook 1 minutes.
2. Pour in tomato sauce and smoked paprika, simmer 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, stir, and cook until pink, about 4 minutes.
4. Season and top with avocado and cilantro.

Flavor Boost: Squeeze fresh lime juice over before serving.

Serving Idea: Serve over rice or in tortillas for shrimp tacos.

10. Creamy Parmesan Shrimp & Mushroom Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

This feels extra cozy—creamy, cheesy sauce packed with juicy shrimp and earthy mushrooms. It’s pure winter comfort but still feels fresh.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and mushrooms until golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Add shrimp and cook until just pink.
3. Pour in half-and-half and parmesan, stirring until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Season and finish with parsley.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.

Best Pairings: Serve with steamed broccoli or over egg noodles.

11. Maple Dijon Shrimp & Brussels Sprouts Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Slightly sweet, tangy, and totally unexpected—shrimp with roasted Brussels and a maple-mustard glaze will become a winter favorite. It’s especially handy for lazy Sunday dinners.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme, for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Toss Brussels with half the oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in skillet over medium heat until browned, 10–12 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, mix maple syrup and both mustards together.
3. Add shrimp and remaining oil to skillet, cook 3 minutes.
4. Pour maple-mustard glaze over, stir until everything is glossy and coated.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme.

Meal Prep Tip: Leftovers taste great tossed into a salad for lunch.

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for zing.

12. Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta make this feel like vacation food—even in December. It’s bright, bold, and satisfying in every bite.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 3 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 lemon, cut in wedges
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet and sauté garlic for 1 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes and olives, cook until tomatoes begin to soften.
3. Stir in shrimp and cook until pink, about 4 minutes.
4. Finish with crumbled feta, oregano, and lemon wedges.

Best Pairings: Serve with warm pita or a simple cucumber salad.

Personal Note: My family requests this every time they visit.

13. Thai Basil Shrimp Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

When you crave something herby and a little spicy, this hits the spot. Thai basil adds grin-worthy fragrance, and the quick sauce is sweet, salty, and addictive.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 red chili, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Steamed rice, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Mix soy, fish sauce, and brown sugar; set aside.
2. Heat oil in skillet, sauté garlic and chili for 1 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, cook until pink.
4. Stir in sauce and basil leaves, cook 2 more minutes.
5. Serve immediately with rice.

Flavor Boost: Squeeze in lime juice just before serving.

Swap This With That: Use regular sweet basil if Thai basil isn’t available.

14. Shrimp, White Bean & Kale Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

This one’s for when you want something hearty yet light. The beans and kale add substance, and the shrimp keeps it quick and special.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, optional

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet, add garlic, and sauté 1 minutes.
2. Add kale, thyme, and broth; cook until kale is wilted.
3. Stir in beans and shrimp; cook 4–5 minutes until shrimp are pink.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Meal Prep Tip: Double the beans for a heartier meal or easy leftovers.

Best Pairings: Serve with toasted sourdough or brown rice.

15. Shrimp Scampi Zoodle Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

This keeps things light and breezy, just what you need after rich holiday meals. The classic garlicky-lemon scampi flavor shines, and spiralized zucchini means you eat a whole bowl with no heaviness.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet, add garlic, and cook until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp, cook until pink, about 3 minutes.
3. Add zucchini noodles and toss gently, cooking just until warmed, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with lemon juice, parsley, and parmesan.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook zucchini or it will get soggy.

Swap This With That: Use spaghetti squash instead of zoodles for a winter spin.

16. Moroccan-Spiced Shrimp & Chickpea Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

A little cumin here, a dash of cinnamon there—this skillet takes shrimp in an unexpected, warming direction. With chickpeas and tomatoes for body, it’s ideal on chilly December nights.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet, add onion and garlic, and cook 3 minutes.
2. Stir in spices, then tomatoes and chickpeas; simmer 10 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, cover, and cook until shrimp are pink, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Flavor Boost: Toast the spices in oil before adding other ingredients.

Best Pairings: Serve with couscous or warm naan bread.

17. One-Pan Shrimp & Veggie Quinoa Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Wholesome and packed with color, this one-pan meal covers all the bases. Shrimp, quick-cooking quinoa, and lots of veggies—great when you want to eat light, even as the holidays tempt you everywhere.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped kale
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup peas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet, sauté garlic, red pepper, and peas 3 minutes.
2. Add quinoa and broth, bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in kale, cover, and cook 10–12 minutes until quinoa is just tender.
4. Add shrimp, cover, and cook until pink, 3–4 minutes.
5. Season, top with parsley and lemon wedges.

Meal Prep Tip: This reheats beautifully for healthy lunches.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Swap in whatever veggies you have to use up the crisper drawer.

18. Italian Shrimp & White Wine Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Classic Italian flavors and a splash of wine bring elegance to a meal that’s still lightning-quick. Perfect for impromptu guests—serve straight from the skillet with good bread.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Crusty bread, for serving

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in a skillet, add garlic, and cook 1 minutes.
2. Add cherry tomatoes and oregano, cook 5 minutes until tomatoes burst.
3. Pour in wine, simmer 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, cook until pink, about 4 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with basil and serve with bread.

Best Pairings: A crisp green salad and olives are great alongside.

Personal Note: This is my go-to for weeknight “date night” at home.

19. Paprika-Lime Shrimp & Sweet Potato Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

Smoky paprika and zesty lime pair beautifully with sweet potatoes and shrimp—comforting, nourishing, and flavorful. This is a winter warmer that feels good to eat.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 red chili, sliced
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It:

1. Toss sweet potatoes with half the oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast in skillet over medium heat, turning often, about 12–14 minutes until tender.
2. Add shrimp, remaining oil, and chili; cook until shrimp are pink.
3. Finish with lime juice, zest, and cilantro.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of chili powder with the paprika for more heat.

Serving Idea: Try with a dollop of plain yogurt on top.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for these skillet dinners?

Absolutely—just thaw the shrimp first in a bowl of cold water and pat dry before cooking so they sear nicely and don’t get watery.

What’s the best way to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and start to curl, then remove from heat right away. Overcooking is the number one culprit for rubbery shrimp.

How do I know which skillet to use?

A heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, gives the best sear and helps the dish cook evenly. For larger recipes, choose a skillet 12 inches or bigger.

Are these shrimp skillet dinners good for meal prep?

Yes, many of them are. Recipes with grains, beans, or veggies can be stored and reheated easily. Just be careful not to overcook shrimp when reheating to keep them tender.

Conclusion

Shrimp skillet dinners are December’s little kitchen secret: fast, colorful, and as cozy or bright as you want them to be. Whether you’re hoping to eat lighter after holiday feasts or just need a reliable dinner in under 30 minutes, these recipes have you covered. Don’t be afraid to play with flavors and swap what you have on hand—shrimp is forgiving and takes beautifully to bold spices, citrus, and fresh herbs. Here’s to more warm, flavorful evenings around the table, and the simple joy of dishes that come together with barely any planning. Happy cooking.