Out of Scallops, one case
Can I substitute shrimp for scallops?
4 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Large shrimp (16-20 count)
Same amount as the scallops
Yes, shrimp can substitute for scallops in most recipes using a 1:1 ratio. Shrimp cook faster than scallops, so reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes. Choose large shrimp for best results and adjust seasonings as needed.
- The tweak —
- Peel and devein shrimp. Pat dry and season. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Best for —
- pan-searing
One casethe full scallops card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of scallops |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Large shrimp (16-20 count)pan-searing | Same amount |
| 2 | Jumbo shrimp (U-15 count)elegant presentations | Same amount |
| 3 | Medium shrimp (21-25 count)pasta sauces | Same amount |
| 4 | Frozen shrimpany scallop recipe | Same amount |
Large shrimp (16-20 count)
sweet, mild
Large shrimp are the best size for substituting scallops. They have similar sweetness and can be prepared in the same ways as scallops.
- Best for
- pan-searing, grilling, pasta dishes, stir-fries, ceviche, scampi
- Texture
- firm, slightly chewy
- Prep
- Peel and devein shrimp. Pat dry and season. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Peel and devein before cooking. Cook 1-2 minutes less than scallops.
Jumbo shrimp (U-15 count)
sweet, mild
Extra large shrimp that most closely match the size of scallops. Good for elegant presentations and dishes where size matters.
- Best for
- elegant presentations, grilled dishes, pasta, risotto, ceviche, special occasions
- Texture
- firm, meaty
- Prep
- Peel and devein. Score the back slightly for even cooking. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
Most expensive option but closest in size to scallops. Cook quickly to avoid rubbery texture.
Medium shrimp (21-25 count)
sweet, mild
Smaller shrimp that work well in dishes where the shrimp will be chopped or mixed with other ingredients.
- Best for
- pasta sauces, stir-fries, soups, stews, dumpling fillings, mixed seafood dishes
- Texture
- firm, tender
- Prep
- Peel and devein. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side. Can be chopped after cooking if needed.
More affordable option. Good for dishes where shrimp will be chopped or mixed.
Frozen shrimp
sweet, mild
Convenient frozen shrimp that work well as scallop substitutes. Thaw completely before cooking for best results.
- Best for
- any scallop recipe, meal prep, budget cooking, convenience, bulk cooking
- Texture
- firm when properly thawed
- Prep
- Thaw completely in refrigerator or under cold water. Pat dry and season. Cook as directed for fresh shrimp.
Thaw in refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat dry before cooking.
The longer answer
About this case
Yes, you can absolutely substitute shrimp for scallops in most recipes! Shrimp and scallops are both sweet, tender seafood with similar cooking properties, making shrimp an excellent alternative when scallops aren't available or are too expensive. With a few simple adjustments to cooking time and preparation, you can achieve delicious results.
Tips for substituting scallops
10 tips- Shrimp cook faster than scallops - reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes
- Always peel and devein shrimp before cooking for best results
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure proper searing
- Don't overcook shrimp as they become rubbery quickly
- Large shrimp (16-20 count) work best for most scallop recipes
- Score the back of jumbo shrimp for even cooking
- Use the same seasonings and marinades you would use for scallops
- Shrimp work well in all the same cooking methods as scallops
- For pasta dishes, add shrimp in the last few minutes of cooking
- Shrimp can be marinated just like scallops for extra flavor
Notes on scallops
Choose shrimp size based on your recipe and presentation needs. Large or jumbo shrimp work best for pan-searing and grilling where you want to maintain the scallop-like appearance. Medium shrimp are good for pasta sauces and stir-fries where the shrimp will be mixed with other ingredients. Consider your budget and the specific dish when making your choice.
Questions
5 questionsCan I substitute shrimp for scallops in any recipe?
Yes, shrimp can substitute for scallops in almost any recipe. The main difference is cooking time - shrimp cook faster, so reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
What size shrimp should I use to substitute for scallops?
Large shrimp (16-20 count) or jumbo shrimp (U-15 count) work best as scallop substitutes. They have similar size and texture to scallops.
Do I need to adjust the cooking time when using shrimp instead of scallops?
Yes, shrimp cook faster than scallops. Reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking and rubbery texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp as a scallop substitute?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well as scallop substitutes. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Will shrimp taste the same as scallops in my recipe?
Shrimp have a similar sweet, mild flavor to scallops, but they are slightly different. The texture is also slightly more chewy. Most people find them very acceptable substitutes.