Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Looking to turn taco night into a flavor explosion? These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Slaw are fiery, zesty, creamy, and irresistibly fresh—all wrapped up in warm tortillas.
This recipe was born during a summer beach trip when we were craving something light, refreshing, and full of punchy flavors.
We had fresh shrimp on hand, a few simple pantry staples, and some crunchy cabbage—what followed was a taco masterpiece that’s now a regular favorite.
The shrimp gets a smoky, spicy rub, then sears quickly in the pan.
The slaw?
It’s creamy, citrusy, and bold from garlic and cilantro.
Put it all together and you’ve got a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This
- Fast & Flavorful: Cooks in under 15 minutes with bold, restaurant-style taste.
- Healthy & Fresh: Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and good fats.
- Perfect for Entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for parties.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels or toppings to suit your taste.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Cuisines: Mexican, Fusion
Servings: 4 tacos
Estimated Cost: $12 – $15
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
For the shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the garlic cilantro lime slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For assembling:
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
- Extra lime wedges
- Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, pickled onions, jalapeños
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let it marinate while you prep the slaw.
- Make the slaw: In another bowl, combine mayo, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Stir until creamy. Add the shredded cabbage and mix until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
- Warm the tortillas: Toast or warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame until soft and slightly charred.
- Assemble the tacos: Place a generous spoonful of slaw on each tortilla. Top with shrimp, fresh cilantro, and any additional toppings you like. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Per taco (without optional toppings)
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
Tips for Success
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor—frozen shrimp is fine, but thaw completely before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing shrimp; work in batches if needed to get a proper sear.
- Balance the slaw with acidity and creaminess—adjust the lime juice or mayo as you taste.
- Double the slaw if you love a loaded taco—it’s also great on the side or as a salad topping.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
For the shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the garlic cilantro lime slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage green or red
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
- Extra lime wedges
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional toppings: avocado slices pickled onions, jalapeños
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let it marinate while you prep the slaw.
- Make the slaw: In another bowl, combine mayo, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Stir until creamy. Add the shredded cabbage and mix until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
- Warm the tortillas: Toast or warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame until soft and slightly charred.
- Assemble the tacos: Place a generous spoonful of slaw on each tortilla. Top with shrimp, fresh cilantro, and any additional toppings you like. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor—frozen shrimp is fine, but thaw completely before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing shrimp; work in batches if needed to get a proper sear.
- Balance the slaw with acidity and creaminess—adjust the lime juice or mayo as you taste.
- Double the slaw if you love a loaded taco—it’s also great on the side or as a salad topping.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely. Skewer the shrimp or use a grill basket and cook them over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
What can I substitute for mayo in the slaw?
You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or even mashed avocado for a twist.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free mayo and skip the sour cream or replace it with more lime juice and a splash of olive oil.
Hope you enjoy making these Spicy Shrimp Tacos as much as we do!
They’re a fiery, fresh, and fun way to spice up your week.
Happy cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!
