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Blackened Shrimp Tacos: The Ultimate Guide to an Irresistible Dish

Blackened shrimp tacos served on warm corn tortillas with cabbage slaw, avocado slices, and creamy chipotle sauce.
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Blackened Shrimp Tacos are a bold fusion of Cajun and Mexican cuisines featuring spicy, smoky shrimp served on warm tortillas with crisp slaw, creamy avocado, zesty sauces, and fresh garnishes. Perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings, these tacos deliver vibrant flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb medium to large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count), peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2–1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw
  • 1/2 cup pico de gallo
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for sauce)
  • Optional: red onion, radishes, jalapeños, mango salsa, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
  2. Mix paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, cumin, and salt to create the blackened seasoning blend.
  3. Coat the shrimp evenly with the spice blend. Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat and add olive oil.
  5. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until blackened and opaque.
  6. In a small bowl, mix sour cream (or yogurt), lime juice, garlic powder, and chopped cilantro to create the cilantro-lime cream sauce.
  7. Prepare toppings: slice avocado, prepare slaw, and warm tortillas in a dry skillet or over open flame.
  8. Assemble tacos: add slaw to tortillas, place 3–4 shrimp on top, garnish with avocado, pico de gallo, and red onion.
  9. Drizzle with creamy sauce, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • For less spice, reduce cayenne or use sweet paprika.
  • Use lettuce leaves for a low-carb or keto version.
  • Cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Shrimp should only be seasoned and cooked right before serving for the best texture.
  • You can prep sauces and toppings ahead of time.

Nutrition

Keywords: Blackened Shrimp Tacos, Cajun Tacos, Spicy Shrimp Tacos, Shrimp Recipes, Easy Taco Recipe, Gluten Free Tacos, Weeknight Dinner Ideas

Find it online: https://quikykitchen.com/blackened-shrimp-tacos/