Blackened shrimp tacos are a fun and tasty meal! The shrimp are coated in spices and cooked until they’re crispy and flavorful, wrapped in soft tortillas.
Top them with crunchy cabbage and a drizzle of creamy sauce for a delicious bite. Trust me, these tacos will make taco night the highlight of your week! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp work best to hold up well during cooking. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, use frozen shrimp, but make sure they’re well-thawed and dried before cooking for the best texture.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a unique flavor; however, you can use sweet paprika if you prefer milder heat. Cayenne pepper can be adjusted to taste or replaced with chili powder for a less spicy option.
Cabbage: The mix of green and purple cabbage adds crunch and color. If you want variety, you could substitute with shredded lettuce or even slaw mix for a different texture.
Crema: If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a good substitute for that tangy flavor. You can choose non-dairy yogurt if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Get My Shrimp to Be Perfectly Blackened Without Burning?
Blackening shrimp is all about the right heat and timing. To achieve a beautiful char without burning, follow these steps:
- Preheat your cast-iron skillet until it’s really hot. This helps create that nice crust on the shrimp.
- Only cook the shrimp in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of blackening.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. Look for a charred, pink appearance and be careful not to overcook them.
Trust me, letting them marinate in that spice mix really makes a difference in flavor!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Lime Crema:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 tbsp lime juice (for crema)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping and marinating the shrimp and 15 minutes cooking and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. Combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to create your blackening spice mix.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil until they are evenly coated. Then sprinkle the spice mix over the shrimp and toss again until they’re well coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10-15 minutes—this helps to really soak in that delicious flavor!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy pan on medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot! Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. They should be blackened and fully cooked. Once done, remove them from heat.
4. Make the Lime Crema:
While the shrimp are cooking, mix the sour cream and lime juice in a small bowl. This will create a tangy crema that pairs perfectly with the spicy shrimp.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
To make the tortillas nice and pliable, warm them in a dry skillet for a minute on each side or pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Start by layering the shredded green and purple cabbage on each tortilla. Next, add 3-4 pieces of blackened shrimp on top of the cabbage.
7. Drizzle with Lime Crema:
Generously drizzle your lime crema over the shrimp and top with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your vibrant and spicy Blackened Shrimp Tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using them. The best ways to do this are by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels before marinating!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil as a substitute. Both work well for cooking at high heat and will give the shrimp a lovely taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, separate the shrimp, cabbage, and tortillas to keep them from getting soggy. Place them in airtight containers in the fridge and consume within 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet to maintain their texture, and warm the tortillas just before serving.
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Tacos?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! Add diced avocado, salsa, or pickled onions for extra crunch and flavor. This is a great way to personalize your tacos to your liking!