Grilled Shrimp Tacos: The Easiest Recipe EVER!

December 24, 2025

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Grilled shrimp tacos are a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend fiesta. I remember the first time I made these. It was a sunny afternoon, the smell of the grill filling the air, and laughter echoing through my backyard as friends gathered. Those grilled shrimp tacos were the star of the show, and they have been a favorite ever since. Now, I share my perfected recipe with you!

These aren't just any tacos. They're an experience: smoky, spicy, and utterly satisfying. They are perfect served with our Grilled Shrimp Wraps. Who's ready for the best grilled shrimp tacos ever?

Why You Will Love This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

What's not to love about grilled shrimp tacos? They're incredibly easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and bursting with flavor. The smoky char of the grilled shrimp paired with fresh, vibrant toppings is simply irresistible.

I especially love serving these during the summer. There’s something so comforting about firing up the grill and enjoying a meal outdoors. Plus, the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make these tacos feel healthy and satisfying. Try pairing them with my Slow Cooker Shrimp Tacos for a variation.

These grilled shrimp tacos are also incredibly versatile. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste, making them a crowd pleaser every time. They hit all the right notes: savory, spicy, and subtly sweet. You can enjoy them year round, too!

Ingredients Needed for This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

Here's what you'll need to whip up these delicious grilled shrimp tacos:

For the Shrimp Marinade:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

12 small corn or flour tortillas
1/2 cup shredded cabbage
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges, for serving
Your favorite taco sauce or salsa (I recommend a mango salsa!)

Spicy Taco Sauce (Optional but Recommended):

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced

How to Make This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect grilled shrimp tacos:

Prepare the Shrimp Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor. Don't marinate for too long, or the acid from the lime juice can start to "cook" the shrimp.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium high heat. If using a grill pan, lightly brush it with oil.

Grill the Shrimp: Thread the shrimp onto skewers (optional but recommended for easier handling) or place them directly on the grill. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, or they will become rubbery.
Prepare the Taco Sauce (Optional): While the shrimp are grilling, prepare the taco sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.
Warm the Tortillas: Warm the corn or flour tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or directly on the grill for a few seconds per side, until pliable.
Assemble the Tacos: Layer the shredded cabbage, grilled shrimp, avocado slices, and chopped cilantro inside each tortilla.

Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle with the spicy taco sauce (if using) and serve immediately with lime wedges and your favorite taco sauce or salsa.

How to Serve This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

These grilled shrimp tacos are best served fresh off the grill. Offer a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their tacos to their liking.

Fantastic pairings include a refreshing coleslaw, Mexican rice, or a simple black bean salad. For a complete meal, consider serving these tacos with grilled corn on the cob.

Don't forget the drinks! A cold Mexican beer, a refreshing margarita, or even a limeade is the perfect accompaniment to these flavorful tacos. Or try my Grilled Cod Rice Bowl for a lighter but delicious meal.

How to Store This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

If you have leftover grilled shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cooked shrimp is best consumed within 2 to 3 days.

The assembled tacos are best eaten immediately. However, you can store the individual components (shrimp, toppings, tortillas) separately in the refrigerator and assemble fresh tacos when ready to eat.

Reheating the shrimp is best done gently to prevent them from becoming tough. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals.

Tips to Make This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your grilled shrimp tacos are a resounding success:

Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and unappetizing. Grill them just until they turn pink and opaque.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor. Seek out ripe avocados, crisp cabbage, and fragrant cilantro.
Marinate the Shrimp Properly: Marinating the shrimp for the right amount of time infuses them with flavor without making them mushy.
Warm the Tortillas: Take the time to warm the tortillas for a more enjoyable eating experience.

Helpful Notes for This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

Shrimp Size: I prefer to use large shrimp (21/25 count) for these tacos, but you can use any size you like. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly.
Tortilla Choice: Corn tortillas are a classic choice for tacos, but flour tortillas are also delicious. Choose whichever you prefer. If you are gluten free be sure to use a corn tortilla!
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking. If you're sensitive to spice, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
Grill Pan: If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can easily make these tacos using a grill pan on your stovetop.

Variation of This grilled shrimp tacos Recipe

Spicy Mango Salsa: Add a tropical twist by topping your tacos with spicy mango salsa.
Blackened Shrimp: Substitute blackened seasoning in place of the chili powder and cumin for a bolder flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with grilled halloumi cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
Grilled Pineapple: Adding some grilled pineapple to your tacos can bring sweetness and delicious flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep shrimp from sticking to the grill when making grilled shrimp tacos?

Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before grilling. You can also marinate the shrimp in oil which helps prevent sticking.

What are some good toppings for grilled shrimp tacos?

Popular toppings include shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, and a creamy sauce like chipotle mayo or cilantro-lime dressing.

What kind of tortillas are best for grilled shrimp tacos?

Corn or flour tortillas both work well. Corn tortillas offer a more authentic flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Warm them up on the grill or in a skillet before serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp for grilled shrimp tacos?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before grilling. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure they get a good sear on the grill.

Conclusion

These grilled shrimp tacos are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, they're perfect for any occasion. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best grilled shrimp tacos you've ever had! Share the experience with your friends and family and let me know what you think.