A Shrimp Burrito is the perfect fusion of bold Mexican flavors and fresh ingredients. The juicy, smoky shrimp are perfectly seasoned and combined with creamy avocado, melted cheese, and a drizzle of chipotle sauce. Wrapped in a warm, toasty tortilla, each bite is an explosion of textures—from the soft and fluffy rice to the crunchy grilled peppers and zesty pico de gallo.
This dish is not only easy to make but also highly customizable! Whether you like it spicy with extra jalapeños or creamy with more guacamole, this burrito can be tailored to fit your cravings. Pair it with a side of tortilla chips, a refreshing cucumber salad, or even a chilled margarita for a complete meal that feels like a fiesta!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
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For the Burrito:
- 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced (or ½ cup guacamole)
- ½ cup pico de gallo
- ½ cup grilled bell peppers and onions
- ¼ cup sour cream or chipotle sauce
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for extra spice)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10–12 inches)
Directions:
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Sauté Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Grilled Method: Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C), grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until slightly charred.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for 10–15 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Burrito:
- Lay the warm tortilla flat and add ½ cup of Mexican rice as the base.
- Layer on ¼ cup black beans, cooked shrimp, shredded cheese, and avocado slices.
- Add pico de gallo, grilled peppers & onions, and a drizzle of sour cream or chipotle sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (if using).
- Roll the Burrito:
- Fold in the sides slightly, then roll tightly from the bottom up, tucking in the ingredients as you go.
- For a crispy burrito, place seam-side down on a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Cut the burrito in half and serve with extra salsa, hot sauce, or a side of tortilla chips.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Shrimp Burrito is a Must-Try
1. Bold and Fresh Flavors
Shrimp naturally have a mild, slightly sweet flavor, which pairs beautifully with smoky, spicy, and citrusy seasonings. The combination of chili powder, paprika, cumin, and lime juice enhances the natural taste of the shrimp while giving it that authentic Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Additionally, the burrito is layered with fresh and flavorful ingredients, including homemade pico de gallo, grilled bell peppers, and avocado, creating the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and zesty notes.
2. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this burrito is that it’s easy to modify based on personal preferences. Love extra spice? Add more jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce. Want a crunchier texture? Swap the grilled shrimp for crispy fried shrimp. Looking for a low-carb option? Serve the shrimp burrito as a burrito bowl with cauliflower rice and extra veggies.
Whether you like your burrito extra saucy, loaded with cheese, or packed with greens, you can customize it to match your taste.
3. Quick and Easy to Prepare
This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Shrimp cook very quickly, so whether you’re sautéing, grilling, or frying them, you won’t need much time to get a delicious meal on the table. Plus, with pre-cooked rice and canned black beans, assembly is quick and effortless.
Best Cooking Methods for Shrimp in a Burrito
The way you cook your shrimp can change the overall texture and taste of the burrito. Here are the best cooking methods for making the perfect shrimp filling:
1. Grilled Shrimp
Grilling shrimp is a great way to add a smoky depth of flavor to the burrito. The shrimp get a slightly charred, crisp exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside. Grilled shrimp pairs exceptionally well with fresh toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, and lime crema.
2. Sautéed Shrimp
If you prefer a quick, easy, and mess-free method, sautéing shrimp in a pan with olive oil and spices is a fantastic option. This method allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors of the seasonings, ensuring a well-balanced bite in every forkful.
3. Crispy Fried Shrimp
For those who love extra crunch, breading and frying shrimp before adding them to the burrito creates a delicious contrast of crispy seafood against creamy toppings and warm tortillas. Fried shrimp pairs exceptionally well with a chipotle mayo drizzle or a zesty garlic cilantro sauce.
Best Toppings for a Shrimp Burrito
A shrimp burrito is all about the layers of flavors and textures. The key is to have the right combination of savory, creamy, spicy, and crunchy ingredients.
1. Classic Toppings
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy and well-seasoned, rice absorbs excess moisture and helps hold the burrito together.
- Black Beans – Adds protein, fiber, and a soft texture to complement the shrimp.
- Shredded Cheese – Monterey Jack, cheddar, or queso fresco melts beautifully inside the burrito.
- Pico de Gallo – A fresh, zesty topping that balances the richness of the burrito.
2. Creamy & Spicy Additions
- Guacamole or Avocado Slices – Adds a buttery, rich texture that complements the shrimp.
- Chipotle Sauce – Smoky, slightly spicy, and creamy, this sauce takes the burrito to the next level.
- Sour Cream or Lime Crema – A cooling element that balances out the heat from the spices and jalapeños.
3. Crunchy Extras
- Grilled Bell Peppers & Onions – Adds a slightly sweet, smoky flavor and a crisp texture.
- Shredded Cabbage or Lettuce – Provides a fresh crunch that lightens up the burrito.
- Pickled Jalapeños or Onions – A tangy, slightly spicy element that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
The Best Tortilla for a Shrimp Burrito
The tortilla plays a crucial role in making the perfect burrito—it needs to be flexible, sturdy, and flavorful.
- Flour Tortillas – The best choice for holding all the ingredients together without breaking.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas – A healthier alternative that adds fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.
- Spinach or Tomato Tortillas – Adds a pop of color and subtle flavor to the burrito.
- Gluten-Free Tortillas – Ideal for those with dietary restrictions while still allowing for an authentic burrito experience.
For the best results, warm the tortilla before assembling the burrito to make it more pliable and to prevent it from tearing when rolling.
What to Serve with a Shrimp Burrito
A shrimp burrito is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make the meal even more enjoyable.
Best Side Dishes
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Sweet, smoky, and creamy, it pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the burrito.
- Tortilla Chips & Guacamole – A crunchy contrast to the soft burrito with a creamy dip.
- Refried Beans – A warm, hearty side packed with protein and flavor.
- Cucumber Avocado Salad – A refreshing and light side that balances the richness of the burrito.
Best Drinks
- Horchata – A creamy, cinnamon-infused drink that cools down spicy flavors.
- Agua Fresca (Hibiscus or Watermelon) – Light and fruity, a perfect match for the burrito.
- Classic Margarita – The citrus and tequila balance the bold flavors of the burrito.
Conclusion
A Shrimp Burrito is the ultimate meal for seafood lovers and Mexican food enthusiasts alike. With bold spices, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces, this burrito offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether grilled, sautéed, or fried, the shrimp shine as the star ingredient, making this dish both delicious and satisfying.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making it as spicy, cheesy, or fresh as you like. Pair it with classic Mexican sides or a refreshing drink, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable meal that’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.