This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. With juicy, spicy shrimp and crunchy slaw wrapped in warm corn tortillas, these tacos are packed with flavor and texture. They’re also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual family meals to festive celebrations. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh ingredients that come together in just 15 minutes!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- For the Slaw
- For the Tortillas
- For the Sauce
- Optional
- How to Make 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Step 4: Prepare the Slaw
- Step 5: Warm Tortillas
- Step 6: Assemble Tacos
- How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Fresh Toppings
- Salsas and Sauces
- Accompaniments
- How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
- What toppings can I add to my shrimp tacos?
- How spicy are these shrimp tacos?
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful: The combination of taco seasoning and fresh herbs enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like cheese, salsa, or hot sauce to make it your own.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, these tacos make for a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for serving at gatherings; everyone loves delicious shrimp tacos!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this easy shrimp tacos recipe, gather your essential tools to streamline the cooking process. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and make everything run smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Serving plates
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet allows for even cooking of shrimp without them sticking.
- Mixing bowls: Different sizes help keep ingredients organized while preparing the recipe.
- Spatula: Useful for flipping the shrimp and assembling tacos without making a mess.
Ingredients
This 15 Minute Shrimp Tacos Recipe requires a handful of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled & deveined (I left tails on))
- 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 the Tortillas
- 9 corn tortillas
- Avocado oil (for frying)
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
Optional
- Easy guacamole
How to Make 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, add the shrimp, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine yogurt, mayo, lime juice, taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Preheat a large ceramic non-stick skillet over high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink on one side; then flip them over until they are no longer gray. For extra charred flavor, press down on them with a spatula while cooking. Alternatively, grill them on a silicone grill mat over high heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Slaw
In a large bowl, mix together coleslaw, chopped cilantro, salt, and most of your prepared sauce—reserve some for drizzling later. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Warm Tortillas
Heat each corn tortilla in a cast-iron skillet over high heat for about 10 seconds on each side while pressing down with a spatula.
Step 6: Assemble Tacos
Fill each tortilla with 3-4 pieces of shrimp followed by some slaw. Drizzle additional sauce on top as desired before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe—the perfect meal that’s as delightful as it is quick!
How to Serve 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Serving your shrimp tacos can elevate the overall experience, making them even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to serve your 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe to impress your family and friends.
Fresh Toppings
- Sliced Jalapeños: Add a spicy kick with fresh jalapeño slices.
- Diced Tomatoes: Brighten up the tacos with juicy tomatoes for added flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese like Cotija or cheddar for a creamy texture.
Salsas and Sauces
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime for a zesty addition.
- Mango Salsa: Add sweetness with mango salsa that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
- Hot Sauce: Provide various hot sauces for guests to choose their preferred spice level.
Accompaniments
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy zing.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad can be a fantastic side dish that complements the tacos.

How to Perfect 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
To make your shrimp tacos truly unforgettable, consider these simple tips. They will help you enhance flavors and improve presentation.
- Seasoning Choices: Use high-quality taco seasoning for deeper flavors in your shrimp.
- Ensure Proper Cooking Time: Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid toughness; they cook quickly!
- Warm Tortillas Before Serving: Heating tortillas enhances their pliability, making them easier to fill and fold.
- Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to add shredded carrots or radishes for extra crunch in your slaw mix.
Best Side Dishes for 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your shrimp tacos can create a complete meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that perfectly complements the shrimp.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty addition that balances the meal.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a smoky flavor that’s irresistible alongside tacos.
- Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole make an excellent appetizer.
- Black Bean Salad: This nutritious salad provides protein and fiber while being refreshing.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: Quinoa tossed with cilantro and lime makes for a light, healthy option that pairs well with shrimp tacos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making shrimp tacos can be quick and simple, but certain mistakes can hinder the final dish. Here are common pitfalls to avoid.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp only need a few minutes to cook. Overcooking leads to rubbery texture. Cook until they are pink and opaque.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough taco seasoning can result in bland tacos. Ensure you season both the shrimp and the slaw for full flavor.
- Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can break easily. Warm them in a skillet before filling to enhance flexibility and taste.
- Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Using wilted cilantro or old cabbage affects taste. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best results.
- Not balancing flavors: Relying solely on one flavor (like spicy) can overpower the dish. Balance spices, acidity from lime, and sweetness in slaw for depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Wrap tacos tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.
Reheating 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat tacos on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place tacos in a skillet over medium heat. Heat for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe that might help you out.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just thaw them completely before cooking.
What toppings can I add to my shrimp tacos?
Feel free to add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cheese for extra flavor!
How spicy are these shrimp tacos?
The spiciness largely depends on your taco seasoning choice. Adjust according to your preference!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use corn tortillas that are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This 15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe is not only quick but also delicious and versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or sauces to suit your taste. Give it a try – it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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15 Minute Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos total) 1x
Description
Experience the joy of a flavorful meal in just 15 minutes with this Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos feature juicy shrimp seasoned with taco spices, complemented by a crunchy slaw and served in warm corn tortillas. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize toppings according to your preference, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a fun dish for entertaining, these shrimp tacos are sure to impress. Get ready to savor fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly for a delightful dining experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 14 ounces coleslaw mix (or 3 cups shredded cabbage)
- 9 corn tortillas
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime (juiced)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together yogurt, mayo, lime juice, taco seasoning, and cayenne; set aside.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over high heat and cook shrimp until pink on both sides.
- In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix, cilantro, salt, and most of the sauce; stir gently.
- Warm corn tortillas in a skillet for about 10 seconds on each side.
- Fill each tortilla with shrimp and slaw; drizzle remaining sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 175mg