15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, delicious meal. With spicy, juicy shrimp nestled in warm corn tortillas and topped with a refreshing slaw, these tacos are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe stands out for its balance of taste and texture, making it a go-to dish any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can have a full meal ready to enjoy.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of taco seasoning and fresh ingredients brings out the best flavors.
- Versatile Serving Options: These tacos can be served as a main dish or as part of a taco bar for entertaining.
- Healthy Choice: Made with shrimp and fresh veggies, this recipe is a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Easy Cleanup: Using a few simple tools keeps the mess to a minimum.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. For this recipe, you’ll need basic kitchen equipment that helps streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures that the shrimp cook evenly without sticking, making flipping easier and cleanup simpler.
- Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized and makes mixing sauces convenient.
Ingredients
This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe combines fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Slaw
- 14 ounces bag of coleslaw (or 3 cups shredded cabbage)
- 1/2 small bunch cilantro (finely chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Assembly
- 9 corn tortillas
- Avocado oil (for frying)
- Easy guacamole (optional)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (2%+ fat)
- 1/4 cup mayo (I use avocado oil mayo)
- 1 lime (juice of)
- 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Pinch cayenne
How to Make 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, add plain yogurt, mayo, lime juice, additional taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Preheat your non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink on one side; then flip them over until no longer gray. For extra char, press down on each shrimp with your spatula while cooking. Alternatively, grill them on a silicone grill mat if preferred.
Step 4: Combine Slaw Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together coleslaw, chopped cilantro, salt, and most of the sauce—reserve some for drizzling later. Gently stir to combine.
Step 5: Warm Tortillas
To warm up corn tortillas properly, use a cast iron skillet on high heat. Heat each tortilla for about 10 seconds per side while pressing down with your spatula.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
Fill each warmed tortilla with 3-4 pieces of cooked shrimp followed by some slaw mixture. Drizzle with reserved sauce before serving immediately.
Enjoy these delicious 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos at your next meal!
How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
These 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos are perfect for a quick meal or a casual gathering. They can be customized with various toppings and sides to suit your taste.
Fresh Toppings
- Sliced Jalapeños – Add some heat with fresh jalapeños for those who enjoy spicy flavors.
- Chopped Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes provide a juicy burst and balance the shrimp’s richness.
- Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of cheese, like cotija or cheddar, adds creaminess and flavor.
Salsas
- Pico de Gallo – This fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro pairs perfectly with shrimp tacos.
- Mango Salsa – Sweet mango salsa brings a tropical touch that complements the savory shrimp.
Drizzles
- Hot Sauce – A few drops of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Crema – A drizzle of sour cream or crema adds a creamy texture that balances out the spices.
Salads
- Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the tacos.
- Corn Salad – A zesty corn salad can add sweetness and crunch alongside your shrimp tacos.

How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
For the best results with your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos, consider these tips:
- Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh shrimp enhances the overall taste. If possible, buy shrimp from a trusted source.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp – Cook shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Warm Tortillas Properly – Warming tortillas on high heat helps them stay pliable and enhances their flavor.
- Customize Your Slaw – Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Experiment with Spices – Adjust taco seasoning to your liking or try adding cumin for a deeper flavor.
- Serve Immediately – For the best taste and texture, serve tacos right after assembling them.
Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your shrimp tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice adds vibrant flavor.
- Black Bean Salad – A protein-packed salad that combines black beans, corn, cilantro, and lime for freshness.
- Guacamole & Tortilla Chips – Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips is an excellent appetizer before diving into tacos.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime complements the flavors of the tacos well.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil make for a tasty and healthy side dish.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices provide a comforting side option that everyone loves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the shrimp properly can lead to bland tacos. Ensure you coat the shrimp evenly with taco seasoning and garlic powder.
- Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Keep an eye on them; they should turn pink and opaque quickly.
- Using cold tortillas – Serving tacos with cold tortillas can spoil the experience. Always warm your corn tortillas before assembly for better texture and flavor.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients – Fresh cilantro and lime juice elevate the dish. Don’t skip these; they add vital flavor to your tacos.
- Ignoring sauce balance – Too much sauce can overwhelm your tacos. Reserve some sauce for drizzling instead of mixing it all into the slaw.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- You can freeze the cooked shrimp separately from the slaw and tortillas.
- Shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds at a time until hot. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet on medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about this easy shrimp tacos recipe.
How do I keep my shrimp from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy shrimp, ensure they are cooked just until pink and serve immediately after assembling your tacos.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.
What toppings pair well with shrimp tacos?
Some tasty toppings include diced avocado, fresh salsa, or crumbled queso fresco for added flavor!
How spicy is this 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe?
The spice level depends on how much cayenne you add. For a milder taste, reduce or omit cayenne from the sauce.
Can I customize the slaw in my tacos?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is a delightful option for any dinner. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its customizable nature allows everyone to enjoy their preferred flavors. Give it a try and feel free to experiment with different toppings!

15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3 (3 tacos per serving) 1x
Description
Indulge in these 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave flavor without the fuss. Juicy shrimp are seasoned to perfection and tucked into warm corn tortillas, complemented by a vibrant slaw for crunch. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. With customizable toppings and a refreshing sauce, everyone can enjoy their own personalized taco experience. Get ready for a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 14 ounces coleslaw mix
- 9 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime (juice of)
Instructions
- Combine shrimp with taco seasoning and garlic powder in a bowl; set aside.
- Mix yogurt, mayo, lime juice, taco seasoning, and cayenne in another bowl; set aside.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat; cook shrimp until pink on both sides.
- In a large bowl, mix coleslaw, cilantro, salt, and most of the sauce.
- Warm corn tortillas in a skillet for about 10 seconds on each side.
- Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with shrimp and slaw; drizzle with reserved sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg