Spicy grilled shrimp tacos are a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The shrimp are marinated in a blend of spices, grilled to perfection, and served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings. These tacos offer a balance of heat, smokiness, and refreshing garnishes, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The smoky, spicy shrimp pairs beautifully with fresh toppings.
- Highly customizable with different tortillas and toppings.
- A healthy and protein-packed meal option.
- Great for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking on a stovetop grill pan.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Lime juice
- Chili powder
- Smoked paprika
- Cumin
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Cabbage (shredded)
- Avocado (sliced)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Red onion (thinly sliced)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Hot sauce (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the shrimp marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the shrimp: Thread the shrimp onto skewers or place them directly on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque and have grill marks.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas on the grill or a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.
- Assemble the tacos: Fill each tortilla with grilled shrimp, shredded cabbage, avocado slices, red onion, and cilantro.
- Add toppings: Drizzle with sour cream or Greek yogurt and hot sauce if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy grilled shrimp tacos.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Mild version: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a less spicy taco.
- Creamy twist: Add a drizzle of chipotle mayo or avocado crema.
- Tropical flair: Top with fresh mango or pineapple salsa.
- Low-carb option: Serve the shrimp over lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
- Extra crunch: Add toasted pumpkin seeds or crispy tortilla strips.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep toppings and tortillas separate.
- Reheating: Warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Avoid overcooking to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
How spicy are these shrimp tacos?
The level of spice can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder used.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
What is the best type of tortilla for shrimp tacos?
Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas also work well. Choose based on your preference.
Can I cook the shrimp without a grill?
Yes, you can cook them in a skillet or bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 minutes.
What are some good side dishes for shrimp tacos?
Rice, black beans, grilled corn, or a fresh salad pair well with these tacos.
How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Brush the grill with oil before cooking and avoid moving the shrimp too soon to allow grill marks to form.
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What toppings go well with spicy shrimp tacos?
Cabbage, avocado, lime crema, pickled onions, and fresh salsa are great options.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the sour cream or Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative.
What is the best way to reheat shrimp without overcooking?
Gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying them out.
Conclusion
Spicy grilled shrimp tacos are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that combines bold flavors with fresh ingredients. Whether you enjoy them with classic toppings or customize them to your liking, these tacos are sure to become a favorite. Perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend gathering, they bring a taste of the grill to your table any time of year
Print
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos 1x
Description
These grilled shrimp tacos are smoky, spicy, and served with a fresh, creamy slaw for the ultimate taco night!
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6 small tortillas
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp: Toss shrimp with olive oil and spices.
- Grill: Cook shrimp on a grill or skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Make the slaw: Mix cabbage, mayo, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Assemble tacos: Fill tortillas with grilled shrimp and slaw. Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling