Name: Shrimp Fajitas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice; 2 tsp chili powder (1 tsp regular, 1 tsp ancho); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 3 Tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, divided; 1 small yellow or red onion, halved and sliced; 2 bell peppers, any color; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro; 8 medium flour tortillas, warmed; Sliced avocado and crumbled queso fresco (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, colorful dinner that comes together in a flash, Shrimp Fajitas will absolutely win you over. Juicy, marinated shrimp mingle with tender-crisp bell peppers and onions, all wrapped up in warm tortillas and showered with vibrant garnishes. Every bite pops with flavor and texture, making this a meal you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether it’s a laid-back weeknight or you’re celebrating with friends, these Shrimp Fajitas bring a fiesta of tastes directly to your dining table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about Shrimp Fajitas is that every ingredient has a job—building bold flavors, giving irresistible texture, or adding that irresistible splash of color to your plate. Gather these simple essentials, and you’ve got everything you need for a show-stopping meal.

Large shrimp (1 1/2 lbs, peeled and deveined): Choose big, plump shrimp for maximum juiciness and quick cooking.
Fresh lime juice (2 Tbsp): A splash of citrus wakes up all the flavors and tenderizes the shrimp.
Chili powder (2 tsp): For that signature smoky warmth—try mixing regular and ancho for extra depth.
Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds earthy aroma and a classic Tex-Mex note.
Ground coriander (1/2 tsp): Brings a subtle lemony undertone that lightens up the spice blend.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp, optional): Turn up the heat if you like things spicy—totally adjustable!
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season boldly for balanced flavor in every bite.
Olive oil or vegetable oil (3 Tbsp, divided): For juicy shrimp and perfectly sautéed veggies.
Yellow or red onion (1 small, halved and sliced): Onions caramelize slightly and add natural sweetness.
Bell peppers (2, any color): Red, yellow, green, or orange—all provide crunch and a rainbow of color.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Just a touch gives the shrimp irresistible aroma.
Fresh cilantro (3 Tbsp, chopped): Stirred in at the end, cilantro delivers garden-fresh flavor.
Flour tortillas (8 medium, warmed): Soft, pillowy tortillas are the perfect vessel for all that filling.
Sliced avocado and crumbled queso fresco (optional): For creamy, cool contrast and a touch of richness on top.

How to Make Shrimp Fajitas

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Begin by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear beautifully once they hit the pan—no soggy seafood here! Place the dried shrimp in a medium mixing bowl so they’re ready for their flavor bath.

Step 2: Marinate with Zest and Spice

Add the fresh lime juice, both chili powders, cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne to the shrimp. Toss everything together gently to coat each piece. Leave this aside while you prep your veggies. The shrimp will soak up all those lively flavors and become incredibly tender.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Peppers

Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of oil in a large, sturdy skillet (cast iron if you’ve got it!). Add your sliced onions and sauté for just a couple of minutes until they begin to soften and smell sweet. Then, scatter in your bell peppers, sprinkle on some salt and pepper, and continue to sauté. Let them cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they become tender-crisp—never mushy.

Step 4: Keep Veggies Warm

When the peppers and onions are perfectly cooked, temporarily transfer them to a sheet of foil. Wrap them up to keep warm while you return the skillet to the stove for the next step.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add the remaining oil to your hot skillet. Season the marinated shrimp all over with additional salt and pepper, then lay them gently in the pan. Let them cook, undisturbed, for about a minute and a half. This helps them get a little caramelization and keep their juiciness.

Step 6: Finish with Garlic

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the shrimp as they start to turn pink. Toss well and let them cook through—just 1 to 2 minutes more. Shrimp cook super quickly, so pull them off the heat as soon as they curl and turn opaque.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Add the sautéed peppers and onions back to the skillet. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and give everything one last toss. Serve this colorful, fragrant filling immediately with warm tortillas, sliced avocado, and a crumble of queso fresco, if you’re craving that creaminess.

How to Serve Shrimp Fajitas

Garnishes

Top your Shrimp Fajitas with a generous shower of fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a little extra sliced avocado for creamy contrast. Add crumbled queso fresco for a salty, tangy touch. Sometimes, I even tuck in a few slices of radish for crunch—don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite toppings.

Side Dishes

Round out your Shrimp Fajitas feast with classic sides like fluffy Mexican rice, tangy black beans, or a simple chopped salad. A scoop of creamy guacamole or zesty salsa on the side never hurts, and corn on the cob or grilled street corn makes it feel like a true Tex-Mex celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the skillet right at the table for that restaurant-style sizzle and drama. Or, set out the cooked shrimp, veggies, and toppings buffet-style to let everyone build their own Shrimp Fajitas just the way they like them—perfect for a crowd or family dinner night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply transfer the cooled shrimp and vegetables to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days, making lunch or a quick dinner the next day a breeze.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked filling (shrimp and veggies) in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months, just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

When you’re ready to reheat, toss the shrimp and veggies gently in a hot skillet just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can become rubbery if overheated. Serve with fresh, warm tortillas and toppings to bring back that fresh-cooked magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Fajitas?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your shrimp completely and pat them dry very well. Excess moisture can keep them from searing properly and dilute the flavors.

What’s the best way to warm tortillas?

I love to warm tortillas directly over a dry skillet or open flame for a few seconds on each side. You can also wrap them in foil and heat in a low oven, or microwave for a short burst with a damp paper towel.

Can I make Shrimp Fajitas ahead of time?

You can marinate the shrimp and prep the veggies ahead, but for the very best texture, cook everything just before serving. The shrimp stay juicier and the peppers keep that amazing crunch.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp cook very quickly and are done when they turn opaque pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooking will make them tough, so keep an eye out and pull them from the heat as soon as they’re ready.

Can I swap the veggies or add extras?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or even thin-sliced carrots make tasty additions. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything stays perfectly tender-crisp in your Shrimp Fajitas.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about Shrimp Fajitas—the sizzling skillet, those pops of color, and the burst of flavors in every bite. I hope you’re inspired to grab some tortillas and whip up this simple, lively dish very soon. Happy cooking, and get ready for a seriously delicious dinner!

Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 11 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Shrimp Fajitas are a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp cooked with a blend of spices, onions, and bell peppers, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Customize with your favorite toppings for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat dry the shrimp with paper towels and place in a bowl. Add lime juice, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne. Toss to coat and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 1/2 Tbsp oil in a skillet. Saute onions for 2 minutes, then add bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp: Transfer peppers to foil to keep warm. Add remaining oil to the skillet. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 1 1/2 minutes. Add garlic and cook until shrimp is done, about 1-2 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Stir in cilantro. Serve the shrimp and vegetables in tortillas. Top with avocado and queso fresco if desired.

Notes

You can customize these fajitas with additional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the shrimp seasoning.
If using wooden skewers for grilling shrimp, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading the shrimp onto them.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican