Cajun Shrimp Tacos

Cajun Shrimp Tacos are spicy, savory, and satisfyingly fresh. Featuring tender shrimp coated in bold Cajun spices, paired with a creamy slaw and tucked into warm tortillas, these tacos are a quick and flavor-packed meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Bold and spicy – Cajun seasoning brings heat and flavor.
• Customizable – Swap toppings or tortillas to match your taste.
• Perfectly balanced – Creamy slaw and citrusy toppings cool down the heat.
• Impressive yet simple – Great for casual dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas

For the Slaw:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Crumbled feta or cotija cheese
• Mango salsa or pico de gallo

Directions

1. Prepare the slaw: In a bowl, mix the shredded cabbage with mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Chill while preparing the shrimp.
2. Season the shrimp: Toss shrimp in Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
4. Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and warm.
5. Assemble the tacos: Fill each tortilla with a scoop of slaw, a few shrimp, and any desired toppings. Serve with lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (2 tacos per person)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes

Variations

• Blackened Shrimp Tacos: Use blackening seasoning instead of Cajun for a slightly smokier flavor.
• Shrimp and Pineapple Tacos: Add grilled pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast.
• Grilled Shrimp: Skewer and grill the shrimp for added char and smokiness.
• Taco Bowl: Serve over rice or salad greens for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave just until warm.
• Tortillas: Reheat tortillas fresh before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

It can be. Adjust the amount to your heat preference or use a mild blend.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Skip the cheese and use a dairy-free mayo in the slaw.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Both flour and corn work well. Flour tortillas tend to be more flexible, while corn gives a traditional texture.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prep the slaw and season the shrimp ahead of time, but cook the shrimp just before serving for best texture.

How can I tone down the spice?

Use less Cajun seasoning or mix it with a little olive oil and honey to mellow it out.

What goes well with Cajun shrimp tacos?

Serve with corn on the cob, black beans, rice, or a citrus salad.

Can I bake the shrimp?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Watch closely and cook just until they turn pink and opaque—overcooking makes them rubbery.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free Cajun seasoning and corn tortillas.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Tacos are a fiery, fresh, and delicious way to enjoy seafood with a Southern twist. With spicy shrimp, cool slaw, and your favorite toppings, they make a quick and flavorful meal that’s easy to customize and hard to resist. Give them a try and bring the heat to your next taco night!

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