Shrimp Tacos Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the perfect shrimp tacos recipe, stop right here. These shrimp tacos are everything you want in a taco plump, juicy shrimp with just the right kick, a crisp cabbage crunch, creamy avocado, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, and that dreamy garlic-lime crema drizzle that ties it all together. It’s fast, it’s fresh, and it’s bound to become a favorite on your dinner table.

I’ve made this shrimp tacos recipe more times than I can count and every time, it disappears in minutes. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a busy weeknight, you’ll love how quick and satisfying this dish is.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Tacos Recipe

• ✅ Ready in 30 minutes
• ✅ Garlic-lime crema that changes everything
• ✅ Light, fresh, and full of flavor
• ✅ Great for meal prep and taco parties

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp (medium or large, raw, peeled & deveined)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic-Lime Crema:

• ⅓ cup sour cream
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 1½ Tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• ¾ tsp garlic powder
• ¾ tsp Sriracha (or to taste)

Toppings:

• ½ small purple cabbage, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 1 large avocado, diced
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 4 oz Cotija cheese (about 1 cup grated)
• ¼ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Tortillas:

• 8 small white corn tortillas (6” diameter) or hard taco shells

How to Make Shrimp Tacos (Step-by-Step)

1. Make the Garlic-Lime Crema

In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, lime juice, garlic powder, and Sriracha. Adjust spice to taste. Set aside to let the flavors develop (or transfer to a squeeze bottle if you’re feeling fancy).

2. Prep the Toppings

Shred the cabbage, dice the avocado, chop the cilantro, and dice the red onion. Arrange everything in little bowls so you’re ready to build the tacos when the shrimp are hot.

3. Season the Shrimp

Thaw shrimp (if frozen) and pat them dry. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, and cayenne until evenly coated.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Don’t overcook! Transfer to a plate once done.

5. Toast the Tortillas

You can toast tortillas over a gas flame, on a hot skillet, or broil them briefly in the oven. The goal is warm, soft tortillas with slightly charred edges yum!

6. Build Your Tacos

Now the fun part! Fill each tortilla with cabbage, shrimp, avocado, onion, Cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Drizzle generously with garlic-lime crema and serve with lime wedges.

Linda’s Taco Tips 🌮

• Short on time? Use 1 Tbsp of store-bought taco seasoning in place of the shrimp spices.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to your toppings.
• Make it mild: Omit the cayenne and go easy on the Sriracha.
• No Cotija? Crumbled feta is a great substitute.
• Meal prep friendly: Prep the shrimp, toppings, and sauce ahead just heat and serve when ready.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

• Cooked Shrimp: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
• Garlic-Lime Crema: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week (don’t freeze).
• Toppings: Keep each component in its own container. Tortillas are best toasted fresh.

To reheat shrimp, gently warm in a skillet over low heat don’t microwave or overcook, or they’ll turn rubbery.

What to Serve with Shrimp Tacos

Pair these beauties with:

• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Black beans or refried beans
• Chips and homemade guacamole
• Margaritas or agua fresca

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them fully and pat dry before seasoning.

Are these shrimp tacos spicy?
They have a mild kick from cayenne and Sriracha. Feel free to adjust the heat.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?
Absolutely. Grill them on skewers for 2–3 minutes per side over medium heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure your tortillas and Cotija cheese are gluten-free certified.

Final Thoughts

This shrimp tacos recipe is a keeper fresh, flavorful, and fast. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a hungry crowd, these tacos are guaranteed to impress. Once you try that garlic-lime crema, there’s no going back. Bookmark it, pin it, print it… and enjoy every bite!