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ULTIMATE CREAMY SPICY SHRIMP TACOS

These Creamy Spicy Shrimp Tacos offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Juicy, spiced shrimp is combined with a cool, tangy sauce and fresh toppings, all nestled in a warm tortilla for an unforgettable taco experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon sriracha
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 8 corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage or lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 avocado, sliced or 1/2 cup guacamole
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese optional
  • 2 lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Lime juicer (optional)
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, sriracha, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
  4. Warm the tortillas on a gas stovetop, in a dry skillet, or in the microwave.
  5. Spread a generous amount of the creamy sauce on each tortilla.
  6. Add a layer of shredded cabbage or lettuce.
  7. Top with the cooked shrimp.
  8. Add diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices (or guacamole).
  9. Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese (if using).
  10. Squeeze a lime wedge over the top and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. If you like things extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp marinade or use a spicier hot sauce in the creamy sauce. You can also use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream. Leftovers should be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days.