Grilled Shrimp Tacos Flavorful and Easy Recipe

July 2, 2025 by Elena

If you’re craving a delicious meal that’s quick and easy, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’ll show you how to make grilled shrimp tacos bursting with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, a hot grill, and some fresh toppings, you can whip up a taco night to remember. Join me in this step-by-step recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds! Let’s get grilling!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 ripe avocado, sliced
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges
Optional: ¼ cup sour cream or dairy-free alternative, hot sauce

I love using fresh ingredients for my grilled shrimp tacos. Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. This saves you time and effort when cooking. Next, grab two tablespoons of olive oil. This will help the spices stick to the shrimp and add flavor.

For spices, you will need two teaspoons of smoked paprika. This gives the shrimp a nice smoky taste. One teaspoon of garlic powder adds depth. Cumin brings warmth with one teaspoon. Use half a teaspoon of chili powder for a hint of heat. Adjust salt and pepper to taste for the perfect seasoning.

Don’t forget the tacos! You will need eight small corn tortillas. They hold the shrimp and toppings nicely. For crunch and color, use one cup of shredded red cabbage. A ripe avocado, sliced, adds creaminess. Fresh cilantro, about half a cup, brightens the dish. Lastly, cut one lime into wedges. Squeezing lime over the tacos adds zest.

You can also add sour cream or a dairy-free option if you like. Hot sauce is great for those who enjoy some spice. This ingredient list sets you up for a fun and tasty meal. For the full recipe, check out the instructions for making these delicious tacos!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. This blend brings out great flavor in the shrimp.
Next, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss them well in the marinade to coat every piece. Let the shrimp sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the shrimp soak up those tasty spices.

Grilling the Shrimp

While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot grill gives shrimp nice char marks and a smoky taste.
Once the grill is ready, place the marinated shrimp on it. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The shrimp will turn pink and firm up when done. This quick cooking makes them juicy and delicious.

Assembling the Tacos

While the shrimp cook, warm 8 small corn tortillas on the grill. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they feel soft and pliable. Warm tortillas add a nice touch to your tacos.
To assemble, place several grilled shrimp onto each tortilla. Top with 1 cup of shredded red cabbage, slices of 1 ripe avocado, and ½ cup of fresh chopped cilantro. You can drizzle ¼ cup of sour cream on top if you like. Add some hot sauce for extra flavor. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.

For the complete instructions, check the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

How to Grill Shrimp Perfectly

To grill shrimp perfectly, start with a hot grill. Aim for medium-high heat, around 400°F. This heat cooks shrimp quickly and keeps them juicy. Grill shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for their color to change to pink.

Overcooking shrimp is easy. They can turn tough and rubbery fast. To avoid this, take them off the grill as soon as they look done. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer. Shrimp should reach 120°F for the best texture.

Best Toppings for Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Toppings can make your tacos pop with flavor. I love to use shredded red cabbage for crunch. It adds a nice color too. Sliced avocado gives a creamy texture that complements the shrimp. Fresh cilantro adds a bright taste.

You can also try adding a salsa. A mango salsa works great with shrimp. The sweetness balances the spice from the shrimp. Another option is a zesty lime crema. This adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances every bite.

Serving Suggestions

For sides, consider serving chips and salsa. They are easy to make and pair well with tacos. A fresh corn salad is another great choice. It adds a sweet crunch to your meal.

For drinks, I recommend a cold cerveza or a fruity margarita. Both drinks enhance the flavors in the tacos. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try limeade. It’s refreshing and ties in the lime from the tacos.

For a full recipe, see the Grilled Shrimp Tacos Fiesta above.

Variations

Customizing Your Tacos

You can change the flavor of your shrimp tacos easily. Try different marinades to mix things up. For a bright taste, use a citrus marinade with lime juice and zest. If you like heat, make a spicy marinade with chili powder and cayenne pepper. This adds a nice kick!

Toppings can also vary. I love adding mango salsa for a sweet contrast. You can make it with diced mango, red onion, and cilantro. It adds freshness and color. Other great toppings include:

Diced tomatoes
Pickled onions
Feta cheese
Jalapeños

Feel free to get creative with what you like!

Alternative Protein Options

If you want to switch things up, try different proteins in your tacos. Fish works great! Use firm fish like tilapia or mahi-mahi. Just grill it like the shrimp.

You can also use chicken. Simply marinate it in the same spices and grill until cooked.

For a plant-based option, grill some veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, and corn are tasty choices. They add flavor and a nice crunch. These alternatives keep your taco night fun and exciting!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Tacos

To store leftover tacos, place the shrimp in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Wrap the tortillas in foil or plastic wrap. You can store the toppings in separate containers. This helps them last longer. Shrimp can stay good for up to three days in the fridge. Tortillas may last a day or two, but they taste best fresh. Storing toppings separately keeps everything crisp and tasty.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to eat leftovers, you can reheat shrimp quickly. Use a skillet on low heat. Stir often and warm until hot. Avoid cooking too long, or they may get tough. For tortillas, place them in a dry pan. Heat on low for about 30 seconds on each side. This keeps them warm and pliable. You want them ready to wrap around the shrimp and toppings easily. Enjoy your tacos! For the full recipe, check out the Grilled Shrimp Tacos Fiesta.

FAQs

What can I serve with grilled shrimp tacos?

You can serve many tasty sides with grilled shrimp tacos. Here are some popular choices:

Mexican rice: A fluffy and flavorful side dish that pairs well.
Black beans: Their creaminess complements the shrimp nicely.
Corn salad: A fresh and crunchy option that adds color.
Guacamole: This rich dip is a perfect match for the tacos.
Pico de gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor.

For dips and salsas, consider these options:

Mango salsa: Sweet and spicy, it enhances the shrimp flavor.
Chipotle sauce: Adds a smoky kick to each bite.
Avocado cream: A smooth and creamy topping that is delightful.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. They are just as good as fresh shrimp if you prepare them right. Here are some tips:

Thawing: Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This method is quick and safe.
Pat dry: After thawing, make sure to pat the shrimp dry with a towel. This helps the marinade stick better.

Using frozen shrimp can save time and still give you tasty tacos.

How to make grilled shrimp tacos spicy?

If you want to add some heat to your grilled shrimp tacos, try these methods:

Hot sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the shrimp before serving.
Spicy seasoning: Mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños on top for fresh heat.

Some recommended hot sauces include:

Sriracha: A popular choice with a sweet and spicy kick.
Frank’s RedHot: This classic sauce brings a nice balance of heat.
Chili garlic sauce: Adds both heat and flavor to your tacos.

You can customize the spice level to suit your taste!

In this blog post, we covered how to make flavorful grilled shrimp tacos from start to finish. You learned how to marinate shrimp, grill it perfectly, and assemble your tacos with delicious toppings. Remember, you can customize the recipe by trying different marinades or proteins.

Enjoy your tasty shrimp tacos and share them with family and friends. Make every meal special by adding your unique twist. Happy cooking!

$- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 teaspoons smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - ½ teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 small corn tortillas - 1 cup shredded red cabbage - 1 ripe avocado, sliced - ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1 lime, cut into wedges - Optional: ¼ cup sour cream or dairy-free alternative, hot sauce I love using fresh ingredients for my grilled shrimp tacos. Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. This saves you time and effort when cooking. Next, grab two tablespoons of olive oil. This will help the spices stick to the shrimp and add flavor. For spices, you will need two teaspoons of smoked paprika. This gives the shrimp a nice smoky taste. One teaspoon of garlic powder adds depth. Cumin brings warmth with one teaspoon. Use half a teaspoon of chili powder for a hint of heat. Adjust salt and pepper to taste for the perfect seasoning. Don’t forget the tacos! You will need eight small corn tortillas. They hold the shrimp and toppings nicely. For crunch and color, use one cup of shredded red cabbage. A ripe avocado, sliced, adds creaminess. Fresh cilantro, about half a cup, brightens the dish. Lastly, cut one lime into wedges. Squeezing lime over the tacos adds zest. You can also add sour cream or a dairy-free option if you like. Hot sauce is great for those who enjoy some spice. This ingredient list sets you up for a fun and tasty meal. For the full recipe, check out the instructions for making these delicious tacos! - In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. This blend brings out great flavor in the shrimp. - Next, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss them well in the marinade to coat every piece. Let the shrimp sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the shrimp soak up those tasty spices. - While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot grill gives shrimp nice char marks and a smoky taste. - Once the grill is ready, place the marinated shrimp on it. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The shrimp will turn pink and firm up when done. This quick cooking makes them juicy and delicious. - While the shrimp cook, warm 8 small corn tortillas on the grill. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they feel soft and pliable. Warm tortillas add a nice touch to your tacos. - To assemble, place several grilled shrimp onto each tortilla. Top with 1 cup of shredded red cabbage, slices of 1 ripe avocado, and ½ cup of fresh chopped cilantro. You can drizzle ¼ cup of sour cream on top if you like. Add some hot sauce for extra flavor. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish. For the complete instructions, check the Full Recipe. To grill shrimp perfectly, start with a hot grill. Aim for medium-high heat, around 400°F. This heat cooks shrimp quickly and keeps them juicy. Grill shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for their color to change to pink. Overcooking shrimp is easy. They can turn tough and rubbery fast. To avoid this, take them off the grill as soon as they look done. If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer. Shrimp should reach 120°F for the best texture. Toppings can make your tacos pop with flavor. I love to use shredded red cabbage for crunch. It adds a nice color too. Sliced avocado gives a creamy texture that complements the shrimp. Fresh cilantro adds a bright taste. You can also try adding a salsa. A mango salsa works great with shrimp. The sweetness balances the spice from the shrimp. Another option is a zesty lime crema. This adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances every bite. For sides, consider serving chips and salsa. They are easy to make and pair well with tacos. A fresh corn salad is another great choice. It adds a sweet crunch to your meal. For drinks, I recommend a cold cerveza or a fruity margarita. Both drinks enhance the flavors in the tacos. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try limeade. It’s refreshing and ties in the lime from the tacos. For a full recipe, see the Grilled Shrimp Tacos Fiesta above. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your shrimp tacos easily. Try different marinades to mix things up. For a bright taste, use a citrus marinade with lime juice and zest. If you like heat, make a spicy marinade with chili powder and cayenne pepper. This adds a nice kick! Toppings can also vary. I love adding mango salsa for a sweet contrast. You can make it with diced mango, red onion, and cilantro. It adds freshness and color. Other great toppings include: - Diced tomatoes - Pickled onions - Feta cheese - Jalapeños Feel free to get creative with what you like! If you want to switch things up, try different proteins in your tacos. Fish works great! Use firm fish like tilapia or mahi-mahi. Just grill it like the shrimp. You can also use chicken. Simply marinate it in the same spices and grill until cooked. For a plant-based option, grill some veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, and corn are tasty choices. They add flavor and a nice crunch. These alternatives keep your taco night fun and exciting! To store leftover tacos, place the shrimp in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Wrap the tortillas in foil or plastic wrap. You can store the toppings in separate containers. This helps them last longer. Shrimp can stay good for up to three days in the fridge. Tortillas may last a day or two, but they taste best fresh. Storing toppings separately keeps everything crisp and tasty. When it's time to eat leftovers, you can reheat shrimp quickly. Use a skillet on low heat. Stir often and warm until hot. Avoid cooking too long, or they may get tough. For tortillas, place them in a dry pan. Heat on low for about 30 seconds on each side. This keeps them warm and pliable. You want them ready to wrap around the shrimp and toppings easily. Enjoy your tacos! For the full recipe, check out the Grilled Shrimp Tacos Fiesta. You can serve many tasty sides with grilled shrimp tacos. Here are some popular choices: - Mexican rice: A fluffy and flavorful side dish that pairs well. - Black beans: Their creaminess complements the shrimp nicely. - Corn salad: A fresh and crunchy option that adds color. - Guacamole: This rich dip is a perfect match for the tacos. - Pico de gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor. For dips and salsas, consider these options: - Mango salsa: Sweet and spicy, it enhances the shrimp flavor. - Chipotle sauce: Adds a smoky kick to each bite. - Avocado cream: A smooth and creamy topping that is delightful. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. They are just as good as fresh shrimp if you prepare them right. Here are some tips: - Thawing: Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This method is quick and safe. - Pat dry: After thawing, make sure to pat the shrimp dry with a towel. This helps the marinade stick better. Using frozen shrimp can save time and still give you tasty tacos. If you want to add some heat to your grilled shrimp tacos, try these methods: - Hot sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the shrimp before serving. - Spicy seasoning: Mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade. - Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños on top for fresh heat. Some recommended hot sauces include: - Sriracha: A popular choice with a sweet and spicy kick. - Frank's RedHot: This classic sauce brings a nice balance of heat. - Chili garlic sauce: Adds both heat and flavor to your tacos. You can customize the spice level to suit your taste! In this blog post, we covered how to make flavorful grilled shrimp tacos from start to finish. You learned how to marinate shrimp, grill it perfectly, and assemble your tacos with delicious toppings. Remember, you can customize the recipe by trying different marinades or proteins. Enjoy your tasty shrimp tacos and share them with family and friends. Make every meal special by adding your unique twist. Happy cooking!$