20 Tasty Shrimp Appetizers

What’s a more classic shrimp appetizer than shrimp cocktail? This 1960's dip never goes out of style! Homemade is always the best here, and this recipe really shines. It’s been our go-to for years! The shrimp are perfectly tender and lightly lemony, and the cocktail sauce is an explosion of tangy and spicy flavor. 

Who can resist a plate of coconut shrimp? Each crunchy, coconut-scented, juicy bite is so supremely satisfying. This appetizer is popular at seafood restaurants and has a bit of that nostalgic 1990’s chain restaurant vibe. Serve the crunchy shrimp with sweet chili sauce for a tasty shrimp appetizer.

When it comes to appetizers, there’s not much better than zingy shrimp ceviche! This Peruvian dish of citrus-cured fish bursts with refreshing flavor, pairing the tender shellfish with tomato, red onion and cilantro. Dip it with tortilla or plantain chips, and it’s a perfect appetizer to get any party started. 

Here's a tasty shrimp appetizer that works either broiled or grilled: Marinated Shrimp Skewers! The flavors are bold, savory, and penetrate the tender, juicy flesh in a way that a simple seasoning can’t. Throw together a few pantry ingredients, no chopping required!

It’s hard to find someone who will turn down nachos, and here’s a fun variation starring our favorite seafood: Shrimp Nachos! We’re big fans of this succulent seafood, and it makes the best fun appetizer or simple dinner atop crunchy tortilla chips with a confetti of colorful toppings. 

This shrimp appetizer makes a splash: Shrimp Lettuce Wraps! They’re bursting with zingy flavor and crunchy veggies, and the creamy peanut sauce seals the deal. If you’re wary of eating your food in lettuce leaves, know that this one is so flavor-packed you won’t go away unsatisfied. 

This flavor-popping bang bang shrimp makes an irresistible shrimp appetizer! Dip each tender bite of crispy shrimp into a creamy sauce of mayo, hot sauce, honey, and buttermilk. via Immaculate Bites

This fun shrimp appetizer features crisp wonton cups filled with guacamole and Cajun grilled shrimp. It's a quick and easy appetizer sure to impress everyone! via Damn Delicious

Try these fresh shrimp spring rolls, dipped into a flavorful peanut dipping sauce. Each roll is filled with healthy crisp vegetables, rice noodles, seafood, and herbs: perfect for impressing family and friends. via Jessica Gavin

Another classic shrimp appetizer: Popcorn Shrimp! These hot, crunchy shrimp bites can be baked in the oven, air fryer, or even fried crispy in oil. via Spend with Pennies

Homemade potstickers are an ideal shrimp appetizer! These are filled with with garlicky-gingery shrimp and sauteed shiitake mushrooms, then fried until golden. via Damn Delicious

This hot and bubbly shrimp dip is an appetizer table favorite! It’s creamy and lusciously cheesy, with juicy shrimp chunks and everybody’s favorite seafood seasoning, Old Bay. via Spend with Pennies

These bite-sized shrimp appetizers are perfect for entertaining! Thread juicy shrimp with a homemade Cajun seasoning onto skewers and dip into a creamy Sriracha dipping sauce. via Damn Delicious

Shrimp and grits appetizer cups are a fun way to impress everyone! Add garlic butter shrimp over creamy cheese grits, then spoon into individual cups for a fun presentation. via Cookie Rookie

.This simple shrimp appetizer features sauteed shrimp, seasoned with garlic and herbs, tossed with tomatoes and avocado over crostini. It's quick and easy to whip up, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. via Damn Delicious

Firecracker shrimp are an ideal appetizer! Cook them until crispy and golden, then add a honey orange sauce that covers them in sticky goodness! These won't last long. via Damn Delicious

Crispy, crunchy egg rolls are always a party favorite! Th ese shrimp egg rolls can be baked or fried. Make a huge batch and freeze the leftovers! via Damn Delicious

This salad makes a fun shrimp appetizer served in individual cups! Shrimp are tossed with cucumbers, avocados, fresh mint, cilantro and a zesty dressing. via A Spicy Perspective

This fresh appetizer features garlicky poached shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, capers and feta cheese! Serve them atop a simple bruschetta with balsamic glaze for an easy but elegant appetizer recipe. via Foodie Crush

Last up, shrimp guacamole bites! Combine classic chips and guac with an easy upgrade (five-minute chili roasted shrimp) to create a whole new experience. They’re salty, crunchy, creamy, and juicy all at once!