If you’re craving a seafood taco that bursts with fresh, zesty flavors and has a satisfying crunch, these Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos are exactly what you need. The combination of tender shrimp tossed in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce, paired with crisp cabbage and creamy avocado, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas, creates a vibrant meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining. These tacos strike the perfect balance between bright citrus, savory garlic, and buttery richness—making every bite a delight.
Why It’s My Go-To
What makes these shrimp tacos my go-to recipe is their versatility and ease. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent without hours in the kitchen. The shrimp get a light, crispy coating from the butter and olive oil sear, while the lemon juice and zest brighten the whole plate. Plus, the toppings add texture and freshness, rounding out the flavors perfectly. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a last-minute dinner, these tacos never disappoint.
The Ingredient Lineup
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star protein, quick-cooking and tender.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps crisp the shrimp.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that unmistakable fragrant punch.
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested – Bright citrus flavor that wakes up the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds subtle smoky warmth and color.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the shrimp until perfectly crispy.
- 8 small corn tortillas – The perfect soft, slightly nutty base.
- 1 cup shredded cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet contrast.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro – Herbaceous brightness to finish.
- 1 avocado, sliced – Creamy texture to balance the zesty shrimp.
- Lime wedges – For squeezing over and adding extra zing at the table.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan – Essential for getting that crispy sear on the shrimp.
- Microplane or fine grater – For zesting the lemon.
- Mixing bowls – To toss the shrimp and prep toppings.
- Tongs – Handy for flipping shrimp and warming tortillas.
- Citrus juicer (optional) – Makes juicing lemons and limes easier.
Cooking Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos: The Process
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if they aren’t already. Rinse them gently and pat dry with paper towels—dry shrimp will crisp up better. Mince your garlic, zest and juice the lemon, and chop the cilantro. Shred the cabbage finely, dice the tomatoes, and slice the avocado. Have your corn tortillas warmed and ready to go.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning adds flavor without overpowering the bright lemon and garlic that come later.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and butter together in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter foams, add the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep them crispy. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and develop a slight crust.
Step 4: Add Garlic, Lemon Zest, and Juice
Push the shrimp to the side of the pan and add the minced garlic to the butter and oil mixture. Sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then stir in the lemon zest and juice, coating the shrimp in the bright, buttery sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm your corn tortillas over a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave. Layer shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and shrimp on each tortilla. Top with sliced avocado and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over.
If You’re Out Of…
- Corn tortillas: Flour tortillas work fine in a pinch, though corn has the classic flavor.
- Butter: Use ghee or a neutral oil like avocado oil for a similar richness.
- Fresh lemon: Bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh zest is best for aroma.
- Cabbage: Shredded lettuce or kale can add crunch as alternatives.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
- The key to Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos is getting the shrimp nice and dry before cooking and not overcrowding the pan to ensure a golden crust.
- Using fresh lemon zest and juice makes a huge difference in brightness compared to just lemon juice alone.
- If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on the shrimp while cooking or add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
- For an even more decadent twist, try melting a little butter over the top of the assembled tacos just before serving.
- These shrimp tacos pair beautifully with a side of cilantro lime rice or a simple black bean salad for a complete meal.
Storage Pro Tips
Leftover shrimp and toppings can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat shrimp, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying them out. Keep tortillas wrapped in foil or a damp cloth to stay soft. Avoid assembling tacos too far in advance to prevent sogginess—assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Handy Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat very dry before cooking to achieve that perfect crispy sear.
What can I serve with these shrimp tacos?
They’re fantastic alongside a fresh salad, cilantro lime rice, or even these Crispy Honey Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls for a complementary shrimp dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Using corn tortillas naturally keeps this recipe gluten-free. Just double-check any additional toppings or sides to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
How do I make the shrimp extra crispy?
Patting the shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking is crucial. Cook them in hot butter and oil without overcrowding the pan, and don’t move them too soon—let a crust form before flipping.
Cook This Next
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi – For when you want a luscious pasta with similar bright, garlicky shrimp flavors.
- Crispy Honey Garlic Shrimp Rice Bowls – Another quick shrimp dish with a sweet-savory twist.
Serve & Enjoy
Serve your Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos straight off the stove with lime wedges for squeezing. The contrast of the warm, buttery shrimp and tortillas with the crisp cabbage, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro is irresistible. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend cookout, these tacos bring a bright, flavorful punch to your table with minimal fuss. Grab your favorite salsa or hot sauce to add a little extra kick, and you’re all set for a meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
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Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if they aren’t already. Rinse them gently and pat dry with paper towels—dry shrimp will crisp up better. Mince your garlic, zest and juice the lemon, and chop the cilantro. Shred the cabbage finely, dice the tomatoes, and slice the avocado. Have your corn tortillas warmed and ready to go.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning adds flavor without overpowering the bright lemon and garlic that come later.
- Heat olive oil and butter together in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter foams, add the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep them crispy. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and develop a slight crust.
- Push the shrimp to the side of the pan and add the minced garlic to the butter and oil mixture. Sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then stir in the lemon zest and juice, coating the shrimp in the bright, buttery sauce.
- Warm your corn tortillas over a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave. Layer shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and shrimp on each tortilla. Top with sliced avocado and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over.
Notes
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan to get a crispy crust.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish more than juice alone.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
- Try melting a little butter over tacos just before serving for extra richness.
- Store leftover shrimp and toppings separately and reheat shrimp gently to avoid drying out.
