Mexican Shrimp Tacos

Elevate your taco game with these Mexican Shrimp Tacos, featuring juicy, seasoned shrimp cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Paired with vibrant toppings like shredded purple cabbage, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy Bang Bang sauce, these tacos are a crowd-pleasing favorite. Finished with a sprinkle of queso fresco, they offer the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and creaminess.

This recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or Taco Tuesdays, with a preparation time of under 30 minutes. It’s also highly versatile, allowing for substitutions like grilled fish or chicken for the shrimp. Whether you’re looking for healthy taco recipes, easy air fryer dinners, or a new way to enjoy seafood, these tacos are guaranteed to impress.

Try this easy Mexican shrimp tacos recipe today and savor the bold, fresh flavors of your new go-to taco dish!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 ½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 4 tablespoons dairy-free butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon garlic olive oil

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 ½ teaspoons rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon sriracha
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder

To Assemble

• Corn tortillas
• Purple cabbage, shredded
• Fresh pico de gallo
• Queso fresco
• Cooked shrimp
• Bang Bang Sauce

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, Italian seasoning, chili powder, and paprika. Mix well.
2. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with ¾ of the marinade, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Reserve the remaining marinade.

Step 2: Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
3. Air fry at 400°F for 4 minutes. Flip the shrimp, brush them with the reserved marinade, and air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in two batches.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
2. Serve immediately or chill until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the corn tortillas.
2. Layer each tortilla with shredded purple cabbage, fresh pico de gallo, cooked shrimp, a drizzle of Bang Bang sauce, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The shrimp is seasoned with a delicious blend of spices, complemented by the creamy and tangy Bang Bang sauce.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cooking time.
• Air Fryer Magic: Cooking the shrimp in the air fryer makes them perfectly juicy with a slight crisp, and cleanup is a breeze.
• Healthy and Fresh: Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and vibrant flavors, these tacos are as nutritious as they are delicious.

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Tips

1. Even Coating: Toss the shrimp well in the marinade for the best flavor.
2. Tortilla Warm-Up: Heat tortillas on a skillet for extra pliability and flavor.
3. Crispier Shrimp: For a slight crunch, sprinkle shrimp with a touch of cornstarch before air frying.
4. Batch Cooking: Keep the cooked shrimp warm in the oven while finishing additional batches.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, tofu, or fish instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with roasted cauliflower or seasoned jackfruit.
• Spice Level: Add more sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce for extra heat or reduce it for a milder version.
• Cheese Substitute: Try cotija cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of queso fresco.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just ensure they are thawed, peeled, and deveined before marinating.

Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: The shrimp and Bang Bang sauce can be prepared ahead, but assemble the tacos just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Q: What can I use instead of an air fryer?
A: You can pan-sear the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side or bake them at 400°F for 6–8 minutes.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado salad.
• Garnishes: Add chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or sliced jalapeños for extra zest and freshness.
• Drinks: Pair with margaritas, sparkling water, or a light Mexican beer for a complete meal.

These Mexican Shrimp Tacos are a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for Taco Tuesdays or any day you crave something special. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a family favorite!