Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Name: Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup pico de gallo; 1/4 cup crema or sour cream; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Eats

I absolutely love grilling shrimp tacos on warm evenings! The combination of marinated shrimp, fresh toppings, and crispy tortillas creates a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist. I usually prepare everything in advance, so when it’s time to eat, I just need to fire up the grill and assemble my delicious tacos. It’s one of those meals that feels special yet is straightforward enough to whip up any day of the week. Trust me, once you try them, these shrimp tacos will become a regular in your cooking rotation.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:24:36.887Z

When I first made grilled shrimp tacos, I marinated the shrimp in a zesty lime and garlic mixture, and they turned out sensational! The key is to let the shrimp soak in the marinade long enough to absorb those vibrant flavors without overpowering them. I also discovered that cooking the shrimp quickly over high heat gives them a delightful char, adding depth to each bite.

What really elevates these tacos is the choice of toppings. I love to pile on fresh avocado, crunchy cabbage, and a drizzle of spicy crema. The combination of textures and flavors makes every taco a delightful experience. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that allows you to mix and match your favorite toppings!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Succulent shrimp grilled to perfection for that smoky flavor
Fresh, vibrant toppings that brighten every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

The key to tasty grilled shrimp tacos lies in the marinade. Using fresh lime juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps to tenderize the shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness. Aim to marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes; if you have more time, letting them sit for up to an hour in the refrigerator allows the flavors to penetrate deeper. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidic lime juice can cause the shrimp to become too soft.

While you're marinating, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor. These ingredients complement the chili powder and give the shrimp a delightful smoky kick. Experimenting with spices is part of the fun—if you're feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of cumin or some fresh herbs like cilantro to the marinade for a unique twist!

The Perfect Grill Technique

When grilling the shrimp, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, around 400°F (204°C). This temperature allows the shrimp to cook quickly without drying out, achieving that beautiful char. Use skewers to keep the shrimp secured; if you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, watching closely for that pink and opaque transformation, which indicates it's done.

If your shrimp start to stick to the grill, gently loosen them with a spatula or grill tongs. This will help you avoid tearing the shrimp. Remember, overcooking makes shrimp rubbery; they finish cooking even after removal from the grill due to residual heat. So better to take them off just as they turn opaque around the edges!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your grilled shrimp tacos:

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup pico de gallo
1/4 cup crema or sour cream
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious grilled shrimp tacos:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and mix well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure they are evenly spaced. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Warm the Tortillas

While the shrimp are grilling, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred.

Assemble the Tacos

Place grilled shrimp on each tortilla, then top with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your tacos immediately while they're hot and fresh!

Pro Tips

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your tacos.

Tortilla Tips

Warming the corn tortillas is essential for a satisfying taco experience. Heat them directly on the grill for about 30 seconds per side, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning. If you prefer, try wrapping them in foil and placing them on the grill to warm through while keeping them soft. If you don't have a grill, you can easily warm them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping as needed until they're pliable.

If you find corn tortillas difficult to handle because they tend to crack, consider using flour tortillas instead, which are generally more flexible. Alternatively, you can also try slightly heating the tortillas in a microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture without char.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

To serve, have all your toppings ready so guests can customize their tacos. Alongside the shredded cabbage and avocado, try including sliced jalapeños or pickled red onions for an extra kick. A squeeze of additional lime over the top right before serving brings everything together beautifully and enhances freshness. Pairing the tacos with a side of tortilla chips and salsa makes for a fantastic meal experience.

If you have leftover shrimp, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the shrimp will lose some texture when reheated. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat until just warmed through. I recommend not reheating in the microwave because that can make shrimp rubbery and tough.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for corn tortillas?

Flour tortillas work well too, or you can even serve the shrimp over a salad for a low-carb option.

→ How do I store leftover shrimp tacos?

You can store the marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to consume the tacos fresh.

→ Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

While you can prepare the shrimp and toppings in advance, it's best to assemble the tacos just before serving to maintain the tortilla's texture.