Best Blackened Shrimp Tacos: Spicy, Smoky, and Full of Flavor

If you love bold, smoky flavors, these Blackened Shrimp Tacos are a must-try! Featuring shrimp coated in a homemade blackened seasoning blend, these tacos are spicy, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes. Topped with a cool, creamy slaw and fresh toppings, they’re the perfect balance of heat and refreshment. Let’s fire up the skillet and get cooking!

Key Benefits

Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Bold and flavorful: Packed with smoky, spicy blackened seasoning.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings.
• Crowd-pleaser: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Blackened Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Slaw:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

For Serving:

• 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

1. Prep the Shrimp:
   • In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Toss the shrimp in the seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Slaw:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Toss the shredded cabbage in the dressing until well-coated.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce (if using), and garlic powder.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
   • Layer each tortilla with slaw, blackened shrimp, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Adjust the heat: Reduce or increase the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
• Grill the shrimp: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas.
• Add toppings: Try avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled onions for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these tacos with:

• Mexican street corn or a side of black beans.
• A refreshing mango salsa or guacamole.
• A cold margarita or lime-infused sparkling water.

Conclusion

These Blackened Shrimp Tacos are a delicious way to enjoy bold, smoky flavors in a quick and easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, they’re sure to impress. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media. For more quick and flavorful recipes, subscribe to our blog!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw the shrimp in cold water before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store the shrimp, slaw, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep the slaw and sauce ahead, and cook the shrimp just before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat the shrimp?
A: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep them flavorful.

Recipe Recap

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350 per serving

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)