Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos Flavorful and Simple Dish

If you’re craving a quick, tasty meal, look no further! Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos are simple to make and packed with flavor. In just a few easy steps, I’ll show you how to turn fresh shrimp and savory garlic into a satisfying dish that will impress your family or friends. Ready to satisfy that taco craving? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– Juice of 1 fresh lime

Additional Ingredients

– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

– 8 small corn tortillas

– 1 cup finely shredded red cabbage

– 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced

– Fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish

– Lime wedges, for serving

To make garlic butter shrimp tacos, you need fresh ingredients. The main ingredients are shrimp, butter, and garlic. I use large shrimp because they cook quickly and are easy to eat in a taco. You want the shrimp to be peeled and deveined for a clean bite.

The unsalted butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. Minced garlic gives a strong taste that pairs well with shrimp. Smoked paprika adds a deep, warm flavor, while chili powder gives a slight kick. Fresh lime juice brightens everything up and balances the dish.

For extra crunch and flavor, I add red cabbage and avocado. The cabbage adds a nice texture, and the avocado brings creaminess. Fresh cilantro sprigs make a great garnish, adding a touch of green color and freshness. Don’t forget lime wedges! They offer a zesty twist when you squeeze them on top.

You can find the full recipe [here](#).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Butter Sauce

– Melt unsalted butter over medium heat.

– Add minced garlic and sauté.

To start, take a large skillet and turn the heat to medium. Add four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Watch the butter melt and foam. This is the base of our flavor. Once it’s melted, toss in four cloves of minced garlic. Stir it for about a minute until it smells amazing. Be careful not to let the garlic brown. If it does, it will taste bitter, and we want a rich, buttery flavor.

Cook the Shrimp

– Season shrimp with spices and cook until pink.

– Drizzle lime juice and finish cooking.

Next, grab one pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Season them with sea salt, black pepper, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and one teaspoon of chili powder. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without moving them for about two to three minutes. You want them to turn a lovely pink color. After that, flip the shrimp over. Drizzle fresh lime juice over the shrimp. Cook for another two to three minutes until they are fully pink and opaque.

Warm the Tortillas

– Use a dry skillet to warm the tortillas.

Now, let’s warm up the tortillas. Take eight small corn tortillas and place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easy to fold.

Assemble the Tacos

– Add shrimp to tortillas and top with garnishes.

Now comes the fun part! Take your warmed tortillas and lay down a generous portion of the garlic butter shrimp. Make sure to drizzle some of that tasty garlic butter on top. Next, add finely shredded red cabbage for a nice crunch. Then, lay down a few slices of ripe avocado for creaminess. Finish with fresh cilantro sprigs for a burst of flavor. You can serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter shrimp tacos! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Best Shrimp

For the best garlic butter shrimp tacos, pick large shrimp. They hold flavor well and cook evenly. Look for fresh, pink shrimp. If you buy frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water before use. Wild-caught shrimp has great taste, so choose that if you can.

Garlic Cooking Tips

To get the best garlic flavor, avoid browning it. Browned garlic can taste bitter. Sauté minced garlic in butter over medium heat for just one minute. This method brings out its sweet, rich flavor. To add more depth, consider crushing the garlic before mincing. This helps release its oils and enhances the taste.

Perfect Tortilla Techniques

Soft corn tortillas make the best base for tacos. To soften them, warm them in a dry skillet. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side. This method keeps them pliable and ready for filling. You can also wrap them in a clean cloth to keep them warm while you cook.

For the full recipe, check out the section above.

Variations

Spice Level Adjustments

You can easily change the spice level in your tacos. To make them spicier, add more chili powder or even some cayenne pepper. Start with a pinch and taste. If you prefer less heat, reduce the chili powder or skip it entirely. You can also swap smoked paprika for sweet paprika to lower the spice.

Alternative Proteins

If shrimp isn’t your favorite, try using fish or chicken. For fish, choose a firm type like cod or tilapia. Season and cook them in the garlic butter just like the shrimp. If you use chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

Flavor Combinations

Toppings can take your tacos from good to great. Try adding mango salsa for a sweet twist or jalapeños for more heat. A drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce adds richness. Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors. You can even add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a salty kick. Explore different combinations to find your favorite!

For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Tacos

To store leftover tacos, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the shrimp from the tortillas and toppings. This keeps everything fresh. Store the container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to two days. When you are ready to eat, you can reheat the shrimp and warm the tortillas again.

Freezing Tips

Yes, you can freeze garlic butter shrimp. First, let the shrimp cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. Seal the bag tightly and label it with the date. You can freeze shrimp for up to three months. However, I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best taste.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat shrimp tacos, you have a few great options. You can warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until they are hot all the way through. For tortillas, heat them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. You can also use the microwave. Just cover the shrimp and tortillas with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking to avoid overcooking. This ensures your tacos stay delicious and moist.

FAQs

How do I make garlic butter shrimp tacos?

To make garlic butter shrimp tacos, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Butter Sauce: Melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add Garlic: Stir in finely minced garlic and sauté for one minute.

3. Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika and chili powder, mixing well.

4. Cook the Shrimp: Add peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.

5. Finish Cooking: Flip shrimp and drizzle lime juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

6. Warm the Tortillas: Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.

7. Assemble the Tacos: Place shrimp on each tortilla, adding the garlic butter sauce.

8. Add Toppings: Top with shredded red cabbage and avocado slices.

9. Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Can I make garlic butter shrimp tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep these tacos ahead. Cook the shrimp and butter sauce in advance.

Tips for Meal Prepping:

– Store shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

– Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them fresh.

– Prepare toppings like cabbage and avocado and keep them separate.

What sides pair well with garlic butter shrimp tacos?

These tacos go great with several sides.

Suggestions for Complementary Dishes:

– Fresh corn salad adds crunch.

– Cilantro lime rice gives a zesty kick.

– Black beans offer protein and fiber.

– A light slaw balances the richness of the shrimp.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can easily lighten up garlic butter shrimp tacos with a few swaps.

Substitution Ideas for a Lighter Meal:

– Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat.

– Swap regular tortillas for whole grain or lettuce wraps.

– Add more veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, for extra nutrients.

Check out the Full Recipe to dive deeper into making these delicious tacos!

This blog post shared a tasty recipe for garlic butter shrimp tacos, with key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned how to prepare a rich sauce and cook shrimp perfectly. Tips on choosing the best shrimp, garlic cooking methods, and tortilla techniques were also covered.

Feel free to get creative with spice levels and toppings. Whether you want to store leftovers or meal prep, we provided clear guidance. Enjoy this flavorful dish, and share it with friends for a fun meal!

- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Juice of 1 fresh lime - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper - 8 small corn tortillas - 1 cup finely shredded red cabbage - 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced - Fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish - Lime wedges, for serving To make garlic butter shrimp tacos, you need fresh ingredients. The main ingredients are shrimp, butter, and garlic. I use large shrimp because they cook quickly and are easy to eat in a taco. You want the shrimp to be peeled and deveined for a clean bite. The unsalted butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. Minced garlic gives a strong taste that pairs well with shrimp. Smoked paprika adds a deep, warm flavor, while chili powder gives a slight kick. Fresh lime juice brightens everything up and balances the dish. For extra crunch and flavor, I add red cabbage and avocado. The cabbage adds a nice texture, and the avocado brings creaminess. Fresh cilantro sprigs make a great garnish, adding a touch of green color and freshness. Don't forget lime wedges! They offer a zesty twist when you squeeze them on top. You can find the full recipe [here](#). - Melt unsalted butter over medium heat. - Add minced garlic and sauté. To start, take a large skillet and turn the heat to medium. Add four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Watch the butter melt and foam. This is the base of our flavor. Once it’s melted, toss in four cloves of minced garlic. Stir it for about a minute until it smells amazing. Be careful not to let the garlic brown. If it does, it will taste bitter, and we want a rich, buttery flavor. - Season shrimp with spices and cook until pink. - Drizzle lime juice and finish cooking. Next, grab one pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Season them with sea salt, black pepper, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and one teaspoon of chili powder. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook without moving them for about two to three minutes. You want them to turn a lovely pink color. After that, flip the shrimp over. Drizzle fresh lime juice over the shrimp. Cook for another two to three minutes until they are fully pink and opaque. - Use a dry skillet to warm the tortillas. Now, let’s warm up the tortillas. Take eight small corn tortillas and place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easy to fold. - Add shrimp to tortillas and top with garnishes. Now comes the fun part! Take your warmed tortillas and lay down a generous portion of the garlic butter shrimp. Make sure to drizzle some of that tasty garlic butter on top. Next, add finely shredded red cabbage for a nice crunch. Then, lay down a few slices of ripe avocado for creaminess. Finish with fresh cilantro sprigs for a burst of flavor. You can serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter shrimp tacos! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. For the best garlic butter shrimp tacos, pick large shrimp. They hold flavor well and cook evenly. Look for fresh, pink shrimp. If you buy frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water before use. Wild-caught shrimp has great taste, so choose that if you can. To get the best garlic flavor, avoid browning it. Browned garlic can taste bitter. Sauté minced garlic in butter over medium heat for just one minute. This method brings out its sweet, rich flavor. To add more depth, consider crushing the garlic before mincing. This helps release its oils and enhances the taste. Soft corn tortillas make the best base for tacos. To soften them, warm them in a dry skillet. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side. This method keeps them pliable and ready for filling. You can also wrap them in a clean cloth to keep them warm while you cook. For the full recipe, check out the section above. {{image_4}} You can easily change the spice level in your tacos. To make them spicier, add more chili powder or even some cayenne pepper. Start with a pinch and taste. If you prefer less heat, reduce the chili powder or skip it entirely. You can also swap smoked paprika for sweet paprika to lower the spice. If shrimp isn't your favorite, try using fish or chicken. For fish, choose a firm type like cod or tilapia. Season and cook them in the garlic butter just like the shrimp. If you use chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish. Toppings can take your tacos from good to great. Try adding mango salsa for a sweet twist or jalapeños for more heat. A drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce adds richness. Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors. You can even add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a salty kick. Explore different combinations to find your favorite! For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To store leftover tacos, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the shrimp from the tortillas and toppings. This keeps everything fresh. Store the container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to two days. When you are ready to eat, you can reheat the shrimp and warm the tortillas again. Yes, you can freeze garlic butter shrimp. First, let the shrimp cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. Seal the bag tightly and label it with the date. You can freeze shrimp for up to three months. However, I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best taste. To reheat shrimp tacos, you have a few great options. You can warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until they are hot all the way through. For tortillas, heat them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. You can also use the microwave. Just cover the shrimp and tortillas with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking to avoid overcooking. This ensures your tacos stay delicious and moist. To make garlic butter shrimp tacos, follow these steps: 1. Prepare the Butter Sauce: Melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add Garlic: Stir in finely minced garlic and sauté for one minute. 3. Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika and chili powder, mixing well. 4. Cook the Shrimp: Add peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. 5. Finish Cooking: Flip shrimp and drizzle lime juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. 6. Warm the Tortillas: Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. 7. Assemble the Tacos: Place shrimp on each tortilla, adding the garlic butter sauce. 8. Add Toppings: Top with shredded red cabbage and avocado slices. 9. Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Yes, you can prep these tacos ahead. Cook the shrimp and butter sauce in advance. - Tips for Meal Prepping: - Store shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. - Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them fresh. - Prepare toppings like cabbage and avocado and keep them separate. These tacos go great with several sides. - Suggestions for Complementary Dishes: - Fresh corn salad adds crunch. - Cilantro lime rice gives a zesty kick. - Black beans offer protein and fiber. - A light slaw balances the richness of the shrimp. You can easily lighten up garlic butter shrimp tacos with a few swaps. - Substitution Ideas for a Lighter Meal: - Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat. - Swap regular tortillas for whole grain or lettuce wraps. - Add more veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, for extra nutrients. Check out the Full Recipe to dive deeper into making these delicious tacos! This blog post shared a tasty recipe for garlic butter shrimp tacos, with key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned how to prepare a rich sauce and cook shrimp perfectly. Tips on choosing the best shrimp, garlic cooking methods, and tortilla techniques were also covered. Feel free to get creative with spice levels and toppings. Whether you want to store leftovers or meal prep, we provided clear guidance. Enjoy this flavorful dish, and share it with friends for a fun meal!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos

Delight in the flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos with this easy recipe! Learn how to create juicy shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with crunchy cabbage and creamy avocado all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering, these tacos are sure to impress! Click through for the full recipe and elevate your taco night to delicious new heights.

Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

Juice of 1 fresh lime

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

8 small corn tortillas

1 cup finely shredded red cabbage

1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced

Fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Butter Sauce: In a spacious skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it begins to foam gently.

    Add Garlic: Incorporate the finely minced garlic into the melted butter, sautéing for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be cautious not to let the garlic brown to avoid bitterness.

      Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and chili powder, stirring well to combine these spices with the garlic’s aromatic essence.

        Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they turn a lovely pink.

          Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the shrimp over and drizzle the fresh lime juice over them. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat.

            Warm the Tortillas: To soften the corn tortillas, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable and lightly heated.

              Assemble the Tacos: On each warmed tortilla, lay down a generous portion of the garlic butter shrimp, ensuring to include some of the flavorful garlic butter.

                Add Toppings: Top the shrimp with the finely shredded red cabbage and a few slices of fresh avocado for creaminess.

                  Garnish and Serve: Finish with a handful of fresh cilantro sprigs for a pop of freshness. Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

                    - Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Servings: 4

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