Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Bobby Flay’s shrimp tacos recipe brings out incredible flavors by using a blend of lime zest, brown sugar, chili, cumin, and paprika. So delish!

The combo of savory grilled shrimp, accompanied by a creamy slaw and buttery salsa, creates a to-die-for balance of textures and flavors.

To really make the flavors pop, I suggest letting the shrimp marinate for about ten minutes before grilling–it’s a simple step with big impact!

And remember to watch your heat while cooking the shrimp. You want a good sear but burn the spices!

How to Make Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos

Ingredients

• 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp Lime Zest
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 2 tbsp Lime Juice
• 1 tbsp Tequila
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 8 Tortillas
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to high heat.

Mix the brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and lime zest in a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2:

Add the shrimp to this bowl and toss everything together until they’re well-coated.

Allow them to marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3:

In another bowl, mix the sour cream with a couple teaspoons of the sugar-spice combination you prepared earlier.

Set it aside for later use.

Step 4:

Grill the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and slightly charred.

Remove them from the grill and set them aside.

Step 5:

Assemble the tacos by placing a few shrimp in each tortilla, topping them with the creamy sauce, and serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinate the Shrimp Well

Marinating the shrimp gives them more flavor, so ensure you coat them well with the spices and let them sit long enough for the flavors to infuse.

Keep the Grill Hot

Using a very hot grill helps to sear the shrimp perfectly, giving them a nice char on the outside.

Use Fresh Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice makes a big difference in the dish, giving it a vibrant and refreshing taste.

Warm the Tortillas

Warming the tortillas on the grill for a few seconds adds an extra level of flavor and prevents them from breaking.

You can do this while grilling your shrimp to save time.

Add Your Favorite Toppings

Feel free to add toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or avocado to make your tacos more exciting and colorful.

What to Serve with Bobby Flay Shrimp Tacos

Classic Mexican Street Corn

You can’t go wrong pairing shrimp tacos with grilled Mexican street corn.

The sweet and spicy flavors of corn topped with cotija cheese and lime complement the shrimp perfectly.

Plus, it just makes the meal feel more authentic.

Mango Salsa

A fresh mango salsa brings a sweet and tangy element to your shrimp tacos.

With juicy chunks of mango, cilantro, and a hint of lime, it’s an irresistible combination.

Just imagine scooping it up with tortilla chips alongside your tacos!

Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice works wonderfully with shrimp tacos for a simple and satisfying side.

The light and zesty flavors of the rice enhance the taste of the shrimp tacos without overpowering them.

It’s an easy way to add some carbs to the meal.

Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple offers a unique sweet and smoky side that pairs surprisingly well.

The caramelization of the sugars brings a lovely contrast to the savory shrimp.

Try grilling pineapple slices and serving them with a squeeze of lime.

Avocado and Black Bean Salad

This salad combines creamy avocados with protein-packed black beans for a nutritious addition.

The flavors blend together nicely, balancing the heat from the tacos.

It’s a great way to add something hearty and fresh to your dish.

Cucumber and Jicama Slaw

A refreshing cucumber and jicama slaw brings a crisp and tangy crunch.

Tossed with lime and a little chili powder, it brightens up your meal.

It’s an unexpected, yet delightful side that adds a fresh texture!

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options

Switching up the protein can bring new flavors to your shrimp tacos!

You can use fresh fish like cod or tilapia for a light and crispy alternative.

Using grilled chicken breast works great if seafood isn’t your thing.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding fresh herbs creates a burst of flavor.

Cilantro, parsley, or even mint can add a fresh touch to each taco.

Mix various spices into your marinade for a custom taste.

Smoked paprika or chipotle powder could bring a smoky depth to the shrimp.

Greens and Vegetables

Change up the greens for some variety by trying shredded lettuce, cabbage, or even spinach.

Adding sliced avocados or diced tomatoes could add creaminess and a juicy flavor contrast.

Including grilled vegetables like bell peppers or corn could enhance the tacos with added sweetness.

Experiment with what you have on hand!

How to Store Leftover Shrimp Tacos

Storing shrimp tacos properly ensures you’ll enjoy them later with nearly the same freshness!

Wrap the shrimp separately from other components to keep each element tasting its best.

You should place shrimp in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. They’ll be good for up to three days.

Tortillas

Tortillas should be stored separately from shrimp.

Wrap them in foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

If you have a lot of tortillas left, stack them with parchment paper in between.

Toppings

It’s a smart move to put your toppings in separate containers.

Ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes should be in airtight containers to maintain their crunch.

If you used creamy sauces, store them in separate small jars or bottles.

General Tips

Plan to make enough so leftovers are minimal if you’re not a fan of changes in texture.

Use fresh ingredients when preparing, as freshness affects leftover quality.

Never forget to label your containers with the date to track freshness easily!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Grill

When grilling shrimp, avoid placing too many on the grill at once.

This can cause them to steam rather than grill, compromising texture.

Using All the Marinade

Many home chefs use all the marinade even after it’s served its purpose with the shrimp.

Instead, keep some fresh on the side for a lovely drizzle on top!

Forgetting the Lime Zest

Don’t forget lime zest, which adds a crucial fresh dimension to the tacos.

It enhances flavors and complements the spices beautifully!