Name: Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 8 small tortillas (flour or corn); 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage; 1 avocado, diced (or 1/2 cup guacamole); 1/3 cup sour cream or Mexican crema; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional); 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional); 1 fresh jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Get ready to bring the heat and the flavor with these Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos! Perfectly charred shrimp seasoned with smoky spices, nestled into soft tortillas with fresh toppings, these tacos are the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel like a fiesta. They’re fast, fun, and absolutely irresistible.

Every bite of these tacos offers the perfect balance: the warmth of chili powder, the brightness of lime, the coolness of creamy slaw or avocado, and the crunch from fresh veggies. Whether you’re throwing a summer cookout or just craving a quick but flavor-packed dinner, this recipe hits the mark.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, these tacos make weeknight dinners a breeze.
Healthy & Light: Lean protein, fresh vegetables, and minimal oil make it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: Tweak the spice level, change the toppings, or switch tortillas based on your preferences.
Bursting with Flavor: A perfect blend of smoky, zesty, and tangy all in one bite.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For the best results, go for large or jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Wild-caught shrimp bring a bolder flavor, but farm-raised works just fine. Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning to ensure the spices stick and they grill up with a nice char.

Ingredients for the Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Every ingredient plays a role in building layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Shrimp (large, peeled and deveined): The star of the taco. Grill-friendly and quick-cooking.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning adhere and adds a touch of richness.
Chili powder & smoked paprika: The smoky heat that gives the shrimp their signature kick.
Garlic powder & onion powder: Boosts the savory flavor base.
Cumin: Adds an earthy warmth that complements the heat.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the other spices.
Corn or flour tortillas: The vessel that holds all the goodness.
Shredded lettuce or cabbage: Adds crunch and freshness.
Diced avocado or guacamole: Creamy contrast to the heat.
Sour cream or crema: Balances out the spice with coolness.
Fresh lime wedges: Brightens up every bite.
Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of herby flavor.
Optional: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos: Customize to taste.

How To Make the Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the shrimp in a single layer. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly charred.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp cooks, lightly toast the tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a flame for a slight char.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Layer your tortillas with shredded lettuce or cabbage, grilled shrimp, diced avocado or guac, crema, and your favorite toppings like cilantro, jalapenos, or cheese.

Step 5: Squeeze and Serve

Top it all with a fresh squeeze of lime and serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos

These tacos are best served hot and fresh off the grill. They’re perfect for feeding 4 people, offering about 2 tacos per person. Serve with lime wedges on the side and let everyone build their own.

To store leftovers, keep the grilled shrimp and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet. Avoid storing assembled tacos, as the tortillas can get soggy.