These blackened shrimp tacos are a real treat! Juicy shrimp get a spicy kick from seasoning, and they are wrapped in warm tortillas with fresh toppings.
Pair them with some crunchy slaw and a squeeze of lime for extra zing. Trust me, every bite is like a mini fiesta! 🌮 I can’t resist making these for dinner—they’re quick and so fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for blackening as they hold up well and provide a nice bite. If you can’t find shrimp, try using chicken or firm fish like salmon. Tofu is a great plant-based option!
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives the tacos a rich, smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute regular paprika and add a tiny pinch of liquid smoke for that extra depth.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a classic flavor, but flour tortillas are also a good choice if you prefer a softer bite. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas labeled as gluten-free.
Cabbage Mix: I love using a mix of green and purple cabbage for color and crunch. You can swap it for lettuce, coleslaw mix, or even spinach for a different texture.
Mayonnaise: The mayo creates a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully. You could also use vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
Blackening shrimp is all about the right amount of heat and timing. Here are some key steps to get it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet—a cast-iron skillet is ideal for getting that nice char.
- Make sure your shrimp are patted dry. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a lovely caramelization.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary, so each shrimp has enough space to fry evenly.
- Cook the shrimp until they’re opaque and slightly blackened, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, as they cook quickly!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly blackened shrimp every time!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Tacos:
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage mix (green and purple cabbage, carrots)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have delicious blackened shrimp tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful blackening seasoning.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Take the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice char! Next, toss the shrimp in olive oil, then sprinkle the blackening seasoning over them, making sure they’re evenly coated.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add the shrimp in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches) and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re opaque and slightly charred. Once cooked, remove them from the heat.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, and hot sauce if you’re using it. This will give your tacos a tasty kick!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
Take your tortillas and warm them in a skillet or microwave until they’re nice and pliable, which makes filling them easier.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a spoonful of the lime-mayo sauce on each tortilla. Then, add some shredded cabbage mix on top, followed by 3 to 4 pieces of blackened shrimp.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro over the tacos for added flavor and color. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty squeeze!
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious blackened shrimp tacos while they’re warm. Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw the shrimp before seasoning and cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make the Blackening Seasoning Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Mix up a larger batch of the seasoning and store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for several months, so you’ll have it handy for future meals!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the shrimp, sauce, and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble your tacos fresh when you’re ready to eat. Leftover shrimp can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.
What Toppings Can I Add to My Tacos?
Get creative! Some great additions include diced avocado, pickled red onions, fresh jalapeños, or even a dollop of guacamole. You can also substitute the mayo sauce with avocado crema or salsa for a different twist!
