Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sauce: A Flavorful Coastal-Inspired Meal

Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sauce are a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying meal made with seasoned shrimp tucked into warm tortillas and topped with a tangy, smooth sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining, these tacos bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Bold flavor from seasoned shrimp and creamy sauce
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• Light, fresh, and satisfying
• Great for family dinners, taco nights, or casual gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the shrimp:

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Salt and pepper
• Lime juice

For the creamy sauce:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Mayonnaise
• Lime juice
• Garlic (minced)
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper

For assembly:

• Small corn or flour tortillas
• Shredded cabbage or slaw mix
• Chopped cilantro
• Diced avocado or tomato (optional)
• Extra lime wedges for serving

Directions

1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, and seasonings. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, and hot sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
4. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Assemble tacos with a layer of slaw, shrimp, a drizzle of creamy sauce, and your favorite toppings.
6. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4 (about 8 tacos)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add mango salsa or pineapple for a sweet and spicy contrast
• Use chipotle in adobo for a smoky version of the sauce
• Replace shrimp with grilled fish or tofu for a different protein
• Top with pickled onions or jalapeños for tang and crunch
• Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option

Storage/reheating

Store cooked shrimp separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat. Assemble tacos fresh when ready to eat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is the sauce spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on the amount of hot sauce added—adjust to taste.

Can I grill the shrimp?

Yes, shrimp can be grilled on skewers for a charred flavor.

Are flour or corn tortillas better?

Either works—corn offers more traditional flavor, flour is softer and more pliable.

What’s the best cabbage for slaw?

Green cabbage, red cabbage, or a pre-packaged slaw mix all work well.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate up to 5 days in advance.

What toppings go well with shrimp tacos?

Avocado, tomato, cilantro, pickled onions, shredded lettuce, and cotija cheese are all excellent.

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warm them before serving to make them more flexible.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s best to use raw shrimp for maximum flavor, but if using pre-cooked, just warm them quickly with the seasoning.

Are these good for meal prep?

Yes, store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Sauce are a fresh, fast, and flavorful option for any meal. With simple ingredients and a zesty, creamy topping, these tacos are as satisfying as they are easy to make—perfect for any taco night or quick dinner craving.

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