These fiery Cajun shrimp tacos combine blackened Gulf shrimp, crunchy slaw, and cooling lime crema for the ultimate sweet-heat bite. Includes the perfect spice blend ratio, how to char tortillas properly, and why double-layering prevents soggy shells. Summer in every bite!
⭐ Why These Tacos Rock
✔ Bold Cajun flavors without overpowering heat
✔ 3-texture slaw for crunch contrast
✔ Meal-prep friendly (cook shrimp ahead)
Yields: About 8 tacos
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Slaw:
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (green and/or red)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Lime wedges
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream, hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pictures:
Step 1: Prepare the Slaw
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- While the shrimp is cooking, warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can warm them in a dry skillet, in the oven, or the microwave.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- To assemble the tacos, place a few cooked shrimp in the center of a warm tortilla.
- Top with a generous spoonful of the prepared slaw.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the Cajun shrimp tacos immediately with lime wedges and any desired optional toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or hot sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
✔ No Cajun spice? Mix: 1 tsp each paprika, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder + ½ tsp cayenne
✔ Extra smoky: Grill shrimp on skewers
✔ GF option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas
🍽️ Serving Style
- With black beans & rice
- Frozen margarita pairing
- As an appetizer, sliders (use mini tortillas)
🌡️ Storage
- Shrimp only: Fridge 2 days / Freeze 1 month
- Crema: Fridge 1 day (avocado browns)
📊 Nutrition (Per Taco)
Calories: 180 | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 15g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cajun Shrimp Taco Recipe!
THANK YOU for Visiting Savory Life Recipes!
👉 If you loved this recipe, please share it on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram!
