Shrimp Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Tacos are a fresh, flavorful, and quick-to-make meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Juicy, seasoned shrimp are cooked to perfection and tucked into warm tortillas with crunchy slaw, creamy sauce, and bright toppings. They’re versatile, customizable, and packed with coastal flair in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

shrimp (peeled and deveined)olive oillime juicechili powderground cuminpaprikagarlic powdersalt and peppercorn or flour tortillasshredded cabbage or slaw mixfresh cilantro (chopped)avocadosliced red onion (optional)

For the sauce:
mayonnaiselime juicehot sauce or sriracha (optional)garlic powder

directions

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside.

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce, and garlic powder to make the taco sauce.

Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.

Assemble tacos by layering slaw, cooked shrimp, sauce, avocado, cilantro, and onion on each tortilla.

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings (8 tacos).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6–8 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use grilled or blackened shrimp for added charred flavor.

Swap the mayo-based sauce for sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Add mango salsa or pineapple for a sweet and spicy twist.

Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb version.

storage/reheating

Store shrimp separately from toppings and tortillas in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Do not freeze cooked shrimp tacos, as texture may change.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What’s the best shrimp size for tacos?

Medium or large shrimp work best—easy to eat and quick to cook.

Can I use store-bought slaw?

Absolutely, it saves time and adds great crunch.

Is the sauce spicy?

It can be, depending on how much hot sauce you use—adjust to taste.

Can I grill the shrimp?

Yes, thread them onto skewers and grill for 2–3 minutes per side.

Do I need to remove the tails?

Yes, for ease of eating, remove shrimp tails before assembling tacos.

Can I prepare these ahead?

You can prep the shrimp and toppings in advance, but assemble just before serving.

What tortillas work best?

Corn for traditional flavor, flour for softness—both are great.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes, fish, chicken, or tofu are all tasty alternatives.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas and check labels on seasonings and sauces to ensure they are.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos are a fun, easy, and delicious way to bring bold flavor to your table. With juicy shrimp, fresh toppings, and a creamy drizzle, they offer the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether for Taco Tuesday or a relaxed dinner, these tacos are sure to be a hit every time.

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