A shrimp burrito filled with seasoned shrimp, corn, diced vegetables, and herbs, resting on a wooden board

Delicious Shrimp Burrito Recipe – A Flavorful Mexican Delight

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The Shrimp Burrito recipe brings together tender, seasoned shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and creamy sauces wrapped in a soft tortilla.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive lunch option, these burritos pair wonderfully with a side of tortilla chips, guacamole, or a fresh salad.

Close-up of a shrimp burrito filled with shrimp, beans, corn, avocado, and spices, wrapped in a toasted tortilla

Shrimp Burrito

The Shrimp Burrito brings together tender, seasoned shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and creamy sauces, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive lunch option, these burritos pair wonderfully with a side of tortilla chips, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 burritos
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Grater optional, for cheese

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp:

  • 450 g raw shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Burritos:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup  shredded lettuce
  • ½ cup  diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup  shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend
  • ½ cup  sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • ¼  cup  guacamole
  • ¼  cup   salsa
  • Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
    Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
    In a mixing bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture to coat evenly.
    Close-up of seasoned shrimp in a bowl, showcasing vibrant orange hues and spices
  • Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
    A close-up of shrimp cooked to perfection, served over seasoned grits with chopped cilantro as garnish
  • Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
    Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
    Spread a layer of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa down the center of each tortilla.
    Add a portion of cooked rice, black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and cooked shrimp on top.
    Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to form a burrito.
    A hand assembling a shrimp burrito with guacamole, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and crumbled cheese on a tortilla
  • Step 4: Heat the Burritos (Optional)
    For a crispy finish, lightly toast the wrapped burritos in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and heated through.
    Step 5: Serve
    Slice each burrito in half, if desired, and serve with lime wedges and additional salsa or guacamole on the side.
    Close-up of a shrimp burrito, packed with shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla

Video

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 7g
Cooking Tips:
  • Shrimp Substitution: You can use cooked shrimp, but reduce the cooking time to 1 minute per side to avoid overcooking.
  • Add Heat: For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
  • Rice Options: Cilantro-lime rice adds a burst of freshness to the burrito.
  • Meal Prep: Pre-cook and refrigerate the shrimp, rice, and beans for easy assembly during the week.
Keyword Healthy Dinner, Quick Meals, Seafood

What if You Lack some Ingredients?

If you’re looking to switch up this shrimp burrito recipe, there are plenty of alternative ingredients to explore while maintaining its deliciousness. For a vegetarian twist, swap the shrimp for seasoned roasted vegetables such as:

  • Bell peppers
  • Zucchini
  • Mushrooms
  • Sweet potatoes

Blackened tofu or crispy chickpeas can also provide a satisfying protein option. For those who prefer poultry, grilled chicken or turkey works wonderfully with the same spices used for the shrimp.

For a gluten-free option, replace flour tortillas with corn tortillas or large lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative. Instead of traditional rice, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter, nutrient-packed base. You can also experiment with different beans, such as pinto beans or refried beans, for a creamier texture.

In terms of toppings, substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or omit the cheese entirely for a vegan version. Get creative with your sauces, try chipotle mayo, tahini dressing, or a zesty mango salsa to add a flair to your burrito. If you lack shrimp, you can use some different seafood variants.

Close-up of a shrimp burrito featuring seasoned shrimp, corn, diced vegetables, and cilantro wrapped in a toasted tortilla
Shrimp is one of the most versatile proteins, pairing well with a variety of spices and fresh ingredients

The Bottom Line

Crafting a shrimp burrito is more than just preparing a meal, it’s about bringing vibrant flavors together in a way that’s both satisfying and easy to make. By combining fresh ingredients, bold spices, and a little creativity, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Experimenting with alternative ingredients or toppings allows you to tailor the recipe to your taste and keep it exciting. The flexibility of this dish ensures that it remains a favorite, offering a delicious way to enjoy Mexican-inspired cuisine with your twist.

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