Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Bobby Flay’s Sizzling Shrimp Tacos Recipe for Taco Night

Bobby Flay brings a zesty southwestern twist to these mouthwatering shrimp tacos that’ll make you dance with delight.

Crisp tortillas cradle succulent seafood seasoned with bold spices and fresh herbs.

Vibrant colors and layers of flavor create an irresistible meal perfect for summer evenings.

Each bite promises a burst of tangy, spicy goodness that keeps you wanting more.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients blend seamlessly with classic mexican techniques for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Grab some napkins and prepare to savor every delicious morsel – this recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner sensation.

You won’t be able to resist trying these incredible tacos that pack a serious punch of flavor.

Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos That Pack Bold Flavor

  • Speedy Seafood Sensation: Whip up these mouthwatering shrimp tacos in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings.
  • Flavor Explosion: Bold spices and smoky chipotle sauce create an incredible taste experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal.
  • Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping shrimp for chicken, adjusting spice levels, or making vegetarian modifications to suit different preferences.
  • Health-Conscious Delight: Packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and light ingredients, these tacos offer a nutritious alternative to heavy, greasy meal options.

Build Bobby Flay’s Shrimp Tacos at Home

Protein:
  • Shrimp: Delicate seafood that carries bold marinade flavors, best when fresh and deveined.
  • Cotija Cheese: Crumbly Mexican cheese adds salty and tangy finish to tacos.
Produce:
  • Cabbage, Carrots: Crunchy slaw base with fresh and crisp texture.
  • Cilantro: Bright herb that adds fresh, herbal notes.
  • Lime: Provides zesty citrus tang and helps tenderize shrimp.
  • Avocado: Creamy, rich topping that balances spicy flavors.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that enhances overall depth of flavor.
Pantry and Spices:
  • Olive Oil: Helps marinade stick to shrimp and adds smooth richness.
  • Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Cumin: Warm spice blend for complex, smoky shrimp seasoning.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing flavors.
  • Tortillas: Soft corn or flour base for taco assembly.
  • Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, Honey: Creamy chipotle sauce components.
  • Chipotle Peppers: Smoky, spicy sauce ingredient for bold kick.
  • Honey: Adds subtle sweetness to balance heat in chipotle sauce.

Shrimp Tacos Flavorful Prep

Step 1: Massage Shrimp with Spicy Marinade

Create a flavor explosion by combining shrimp with:
  • Olive oil
  • Smoked paprika
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Fresh lime juice

Gently toss ingredients until shrimp are completely coated.

Let flavors mingle for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Whip Up Crunchy Veggie Slaw

In a mixing bowl, combine fresh ingredients:
  • Shredded cabbage
  • Grated carrots
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Lime juice
  • Olive oil
  • Pinch of salt

Toss everything together creating a vibrant, zesty mixture.

Step 3: Craft Creamy Chipotle Sauce

Blend smooth ingredients in a small bowl:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour cream
  • Lime juice
  • Honey
  • Chopped chipotle peppers
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt

Stir until completely smooth.

Chill in refrigerator.

Step 4: Sear Succulent Shrimp

Heat skillet or grill pan over medium-high temperature.

Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until opaque with slight charring.

Step 5: Warm Tortilla Bases

Quick toast tortillas on dry skillet for 30 seconds each side until warm and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Build Mouthwatering Tacos

Layer each tortilla with:
  • Prepared slaw
  • Cooked shrimp
  • Sliced avocado
  • Drizzle of chipotle sauce
  • Sprinkle of Cotija cheese

Step 7: Serve and Celebrate

Garnish with fresh lime wedges.

Dive into your delicious creation!

Taco Tips for Bobby Flay’s Shrimp Version

  • Let shrimp soak in spices for full flavor absorption, ensuring each bite bursts with smoky, zesty goodness.
  • Adjust heat levels by adding more or less chipotle peppers to match your spice tolerance and personal preference.
  • Cook shrimp quickly over high heat to prevent overcooking, maintaining a tender and juicy interior with slightly charred edges.
  • Prepare slaw and chipotle sauce in advance, allowing flavors to meld and saving time during meal preparation.
  • Swap corn tortillas for lettuce wraps to create a low-carb version, or use plant-based mayonnaise for a vegan-friendly chipotle sauce.

Shrimp Tacos by Bobby Flay Stored Fresh

  • Store leftover shrimp tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Separate wet ingredients like slaw and sauce to prevent soggy tortillas.
  • Warm shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, avoiding overcooking to maintain tenderness.
  • Quickly refresh tortillas on a hot skillet for 15-20 seconds to restore crispness before reassembling tacos.
  • Keep chipotle sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, stirring before using.

Best Side Pairings for Shrimp Tacos

  • Refresh with Crisp White Wine: Pair the zesty shrimp tacos with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the spicy and tangy flavors, cutting through the richness of the chipotle sauce.
  • Boost with Mexican Beer Pairing: Grab a light, crisp Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo Especial to enhance the taco's smoky and vibrant profile, creating a refreshing balance with the spicy shrimp.
  • Cool Down with Margarita Magic: Mix a classic margarita with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a touch of salt to perfectly match the citrusy and spicy notes of Bobby Flay's shrimp tacos, elevating the entire dining experience.
  • Quench with Watermelon Agua Fresca: Blend fresh watermelon with a hint of mint for a light, sweet drink that contrasts the spicy shrimp and provides a cooling sensation between bites.

Shrimp Tacos Spicy Styles

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled cauliflower florets or marinated tofu, seasoned with the same spice blend for a plant-based alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour and ensure all spices and sauces are certified gluten-free for celiac-friendly tacos.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap tortillas with large lettuce leaves for a keto-friendly wrap, maintaining the vibrant flavors and protein-packed filling.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with cashew cream or coconut yogurt in the chipotle sauce, keeping the creamy texture for those avoiding dairy.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure they absorb the flavors and cook evenly.

  • Is there a substitute for chipotle peppers in the sauce?

Yes, you can use cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a similar smoky heat if chipotle peppers aren’t available.

  • How spicy are these tacos?

The spice level is moderate. You can adjust by reducing chili powder or chipotle peppers for a milder version, or add more for extra heat.

  • What if I don't have Cotija cheese?

No problem! You can replace Cotija with feta cheese or queso fresco for a similar tangy and salty flavor profile.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Bobby Flay shrimp tacos bring Mexican coastal flavors straight to your kitchen with zesty lime and smoky spices. Crisp tortillas cradle succulent grilled shrimp, promising a delectable journey through fresh, bold ingredients you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lime, juiced

Salad and Sauce Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
  • 0.5 cup shredded carrots
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 12 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Infuse the shrimp with a vibrant marinade of olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and zesty lime juice. Allow the flavors to meld for 10-15 minutes, ensuring maximum taste absorption.
  2. Craft a crisp, refreshing slaw by combining shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, fresh cilantro, tangy lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Gently toss the ingredients to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
  3. Whip up a creamy chipotle sauce by blending mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, honey, smoky chipotle peppers, garlic powder, and a touch of salt. Refrigerate the sauce to let the flavors intensify while preparing the remaining components.
  4. Fire up a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, achieving a beautiful char and ensuring they turn opaque throughout.
  5. Quickly warm the tortillas on a dry skillet, toasting them for approximately 30 seconds per side until they become pliable and develop slight golden spots.
  6. Construct the tacos by layering each tortilla with a generous bed of zesty slaw, perfectly cooked shrimp, creamy avocado slices, and a liberal drizzle of the chipotle sauce. Sprinkle with crumbled Cotija cheese for an extra flavor dimension.
  7. Serve the tacos immediately, accompanied by fresh lime wedges to add a final burst of citrusy brightness. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.

Notes

  • Marinate smartly by keeping shrimp in citrus-based mix for exactly 15 minutes to prevent protein breakdown and maintain tender texture.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting chipotle peppers or using mild hot sauce for sensitive palates.
  • Gluten-free option works perfectly by substituting corn tortillas and ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Prepare components ahead of time for quick assembly, with slaw and chipotle sauce lasting 2-3 days refrigerated in sealed containers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Emily Harper

Emily Harper

Nutrition Consultant & Recipe Analyst

Expertise

Healthy Recipe Modification, Nutritional Analysis & Meal Planning, Global Cuisine & Dietary Adaptations​

Education

School: French Pastry School, Chicago, IL

Program: L’Art de la Pâtisserie

Focus: Intensive training in traditional French pastry techniques, baking theory, and confectionery arts. ​


Emily’s journey started in a pastry kitchen but took a detour into the world of health and flavor science.
Graduating from the French Pastry School and studying nutrition opened her eyes to a new mission: making healthy food taste like something you’d actually crave.
At Dining At Home, Emily’s the go-to for smart, feel-good recipes that don’t trade flavor for nutrition.
She’s all about adding a fresh spin on old favorites and finding small ways to make everyday meals a little brighter.
Outside of the kitchen, Emily is most at home walking forest trails, testing plant-based recipes, or sharing a picnic under a wide-open sky.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star