Easy Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Lime Sauce

If you’re craving a bold yet simple dinner, these Easy Spicy Shrimp Tacos deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Juicy shrimp coated in smoky chili spices, tucked into warm corn tortillas, and finished with a cooling cilantro-lime crema make this recipe a guaranteed taco-night favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Spicy Shrimp Tacos

These tacos strike the perfect balance between heat and freshness. The shrimp cook in minutes, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights, while the creamy lime sauce adds a restaurant-style finish. They’re naturally gluten-free, family-friendly, and easy to customize based on spice level or toppings you already have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the shrimp:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

For serving:

• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the cilantro-lime crema:

• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 pinch salt

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Tacos (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lime juice. Let marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Lime Sauce

In a blender or small food processor, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), garlic, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly charred. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

Warm corn tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a dry skillet until lightly charred and pliable. Keep them wrapped in a clean towel to stay warm.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with shrimp, shredded lettuce, a drizzle of cilantro-lime crema, green onions, and extra cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Milder flavor: Reduce chili powder or use sweet paprika instead
• Extra heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or sliced jalapeños
• No shrimp option: Swap shrimp for chicken breast or firm white fish
• Crunch upgrade: Use shredded cabbage instead of lettuce
• Dairy-free: Use plain dairy-free yogurt for the crema

Serving Ideas & Storage

Serve these tacos with Mexican-style rice, black beans, or grilled corn for a complete meal. Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store crema separately and assemble fresh for best texture.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320
Protein	26g
Carbs	24g
Fat	14g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	420mg

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are proof that a quick dinner can still feel special. With vibrant flavors, simple ingredients, and endless customization, they’re a recipe you’ll come back to again and again — especially on busy nights when taco cravings hit.

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