Crispy fried shrimp are combined with your favorite taco toppings and a homemade mayonnaise in these Crispy Shrimp Tacos that are perfect for Taco Tuesday.
Transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into an exciting culinary adventure with these incredible Crispy Shrimp Tacos! Whether it’s a dedicated Taco Tuesday or any day you crave vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, this recipe delivers an unforgettable experience. Beyond this delightful creation, explore other fantastic shrimp-inspired Tex-Mex ideas like our savory Shrimp Fajitas or these perfectly portioned Shrimp Tostadas, each offering a unique twist on this beloved seafood.
Crispy Shrimp Tacos: Your New Favorite Taco Night Recipe
My passion for Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine runs deep, a true culinary love affair that began many years ago. It’s no secret to regular readers that I consider myself a bonafide taco aficionado, always on the hunt for the next great filling and flavor combination. While I’ve certainly experimented with various shrimp taco recipes in the past, there was one irresistible variation conspicuously missing from my repertoire: the fried shrimp taco.
The time had come to remedy this oversight, and I’m thrilled to report the results were nothing short of spectacular. These tacos aren’t just good; they’re truly amazing! There’s a common misconception that frying shrimp is a complicated or messy endeavor, but I assure you, it’s incredibly simple and remarkably quick. In fact, this entire recipe, from prepping the shrimp to assembling the final tacos, comes together in a flash, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still crave something extraordinary. The golden-brown, perfectly crisp exterior of the shrimp, combined with tender, juicy interiors, creates a textural symphony that perfectly complements the fresh toppings and creamy, zesty homemade mayonnaise. Every single bite of these delectable treats was savored, and they disappeared from the plate almost as quickly as they were made!
What makes these crispy shrimp tacos so special is the delightful contrast they offer. The satisfying crunch of the fried shrimp provides a wonderful counterpoint to the soft tortillas, while the bright, tangy notes from the lime-infused mayonnaise cut through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet remains wonderfully fresh and vibrant, guaranteeing smiles around the dinner table. Forget complicated cooking; this recipe proves that maximum flavor can be achieved with minimal fuss, transforming a simple ingredient into a gourmet experience.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crispy Shrimp Tacos
Crafting the perfect crispy shrimp tacos requires a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish truly exceptional. From the zesty homemade mayonnaise to the perfectly breaded shrimp and vibrant toppings, here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
For the Zesty Homemade Mayonnaise:
While store-bought mayonnaise can certainly work in a pinch, taking the extra few minutes to prepare homemade mayonnaise truly elevates these tacos. The fresh, bright flavor and silky texture are unparalleled. This recipe does call for raw egg yolks, so please be mindful of this. If you have concerns about raw eggs or have a weakened immune system, feel free to substitute with a good quality store-bought mayonnaise, thinned slightly with a touch of water or milk for easier drizzling. Alternatively, a simple lime crema or even a spicy sriracha mayonnaise would make excellent additions.
- Dijon Mustard: More than just a flavor enhancer, Dijon mustard is crucial for aiding the emulsification process, helping the oil and egg yolks bind together seamlessly. I prefer the distinct, slightly tangy and spicy flavor of Dijon, but if you have another favorite mustard, feel free to use it. Just be aware that it might subtly alter the final taste profile.
- Fresh Lime Juice: This ingredient is a triple threat. It provides essential acidity to brighten the mayonnaise, cuts through the richness, and crucially, its acidic properties help to denature the proteins in the egg yolks, facilitating the thickening and lightening of the mayonnaise as it emulsifies. Freshly squeezed is always best for maximum flavor.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves of minced fresh garlic infuse the mayonnaise with a pungent, aromatic depth that complements the other Tex-Mex flavors beautifully. For best results, use freshly minced garlic rather than pre-minessed for a bolder taste.
- Egg Yolks: You’ll need just two yolks from large eggs. For optimal emulsification, ensure your egg yolks are at room temperature. This helps them combine more readily with the oil, resulting in a smoother, more stable mayonnaise.
- Neutral Oil: For a clean, unadulterated flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine, I highly recommend using a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil. While olive oil can be used, be aware that its distinct flavor will be present in the mayonnaise, which might not be desirable for everyone. Slowly streaming the oil is key to achieving a stable emulsion.
- Salt and Pepper: Proper seasoning is vital. A generous pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick. Season to taste, adjusting until the mayonnaise sings.
For the Crispy Shrimp:
The star of the show, these crispy fried shrimp are surprisingly easy to prepare and yield a fantastic crunch.
- Oil for Frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil. You’ll need enough to create a depth of about an inch in your skillet, allowing the shrimp to fry evenly. The right oil temperature is key to achieving a golden, crispy crust without making the shrimp greasy.
- All-Purpose Flour: This initial coating creates a dry surface on the shrimp, allowing the egg wash to adhere more effectively. It’s the first step in building that irresistible crispy crust.
- Egg: Whisked lightly, the egg acts as the vital binder, creating a sticky layer that helps the panko bread crumbs cling firmly to the shrimp.
- Milk: A small amount of milk thins out the egg, making it easier to coat the shrimp evenly without clumping. It contributes to a lighter, more consistent breading.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: The secret to truly crispy shrimp lies in panko. These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are coarser and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, absorbing less oil and frying up much crispier and lighter. While you could use regular breadcrumbs, the texture of your final product will be noticeably different – less airy and crunchy.
- Shrimp: For convenience and optimal eating experience, opt for shrimp that are already shelled and deveined. This saves significant prep time. While leaving the tails on can offer a nice presentation, removing them before frying makes the tacos much easier and more enjoyable to eat, especially for kids. Medium to large shrimp (around 21-25 count per pound) work best for tacos.
For the Tacos:
The canvas for our delicious crispy shrimp, along with a medley of fresh and flavorful toppings.
- Tortillas: The choice between corn and flour tortillas is a matter of personal preference. Corn tortillas offer an authentic, slightly earthy flavor and firmer texture, especially when warmed. Flour tortillas are softer, more pliable, and have a milder taste that allows the fillings to shine. Whichever you choose, ensure they are warmed through for the best experience – soft and flexible, never stiff or cold.
- Desired Toppings: This is where you can truly get creative and customize your tacos! My absolute favorite combination for these crispy shrimp tacos includes:
- Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Adds a creamy, rich texture and healthy fats, balancing the crispiness of the shrimp.
- Pickled Chiles (or Jalapeños): Provides a fantastic tangy kick and a bit of heat, cutting through the richness.
- Thinly Sliced Red Onions: Offers a sharp, zesty bite and a beautiful pop of color. For a milder flavor, you can quick-pickle them for 15 minutes in lime juice.
- Shredded Cabbage: Essential for a refreshing crunch and vibrant texture that complements the fried shrimp. Finely shred green or red cabbage for the best results.
- Fresh Cilantro: A scattering of fresh cilantro leaves adds a bright, herbaceous note and a classic Tex-Mex aroma.
- Lime Wedges: A final squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating brightens all the flavors and ties everything together perfectly.
- Other creative options: Consider a sprinkle of cotija cheese, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a simple salsa fresca.
How to Make Crispy Shrimp Tacos: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing these crispy shrimp tacos is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps to bring this Tex-Mex favorite to your table in no time:
- Prepare the Zesty Mayonnaise: Begin by combining the Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, and egg yolks in a blender or a food processor. Pulse a few times to thoroughly combine these ingredients. With the blender or food processor running on a low to medium-low speed, slowly and steadily stream in the vegetable oil. Continue blending until the mixture emulsifies, becoming thick and creamy. This slow addition of oil is crucial for a stable mayonnaise. Once thickened to your desired consistency, season generously to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust as needed to achieve a balanced flavor profile.
- Crispy Shrimp Perfection: Pour about an inch of your chosen frying oil (vegetable, peanut, canola, or sunflower) into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers and reaches approximately 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a tiny pinch of flour into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. While the oil is heating, set up your dredging station: place the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl, lightly whisk the egg with the milk in a second shallow bowl, and put the panko bread crumbs in a third shallow bowl. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, dip each shrimp first into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated and shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press the shrimp into the panko bread crumbs, making sure it’s completely covered for maximum crispiness. Carefully place the breaded shrimp into the hot oil. Fry the shrimp for about 1 minute per side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. The key is quick frying to keep the shrimp tender and not overcooked. Once perfectly golden, transfer the crispy shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, ensuring they remain perfectly crisp.
- Assemble and Serve: Warm your corn or flour tortillas according to package directions – a dry skillet, microwave, or quick char over an open flame all work well. For each taco, place 2-3 pieces of the golden, crispy shrimp down the center of a warm tortilla. Now comes the fun part: add your desired toppings! Layer on fresh avocado slices, tangy pickled chiles, thinly sliced red onions, crisp shredded cabbage, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Finally, generously drizzle your homemade zesty mayonnaise over the top of the fillings. Serve these magnificent Crispy Shrimp Tacos immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy the incredible combination of flavors and textures while the shrimp are at their peak crispiness.
Explore More Delicious Taco Recipes
If taco night holds a special place in your heart, just as it does in ours, you’ll be excited to discover a variety of other fantastic taco recipes to add to your rotation. Each offers a unique flavor profile and a reason to celebrate any day of the week with a delicious, handheld meal:
Buffalo Chicken Tacos: Experience the fiery kick of classic buffalo sauce combined with tender chicken, all wrapped in a tortilla. These tacos deliver a bold and spicy flavor that’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat and a twist on a popular bar food favorite.
Brisket Tacos: Indulge in slow-cooked, tender, and incredibly flavorful beef brisket, infused with rich spices and served in warm tortillas. These Dallas-style brisket tacos are a hearty and satisfying option, offering a taste of authentic Texas barbecue.
Baja Fish Tacos: Transport your taste buds to the sunny coasts of Mexico with these refreshing Baja-style fish tacos. Featuring crispy fried or perfectly grilled white fish, crunchy cabbage, and a creamy sauce, they’re a light yet incredibly flavorful option.
Fried Fish Tacos: For another delightful seafood option, our fried fish tacos offer a similar crispy texture to our shrimp tacos but with a different fish flavor profile, often paired with tangy slaw and fresh salsa for a vibrant meal.
Buffalo Beef Tacos: If you enjoy the zest of buffalo flavor but prefer beef, these tacos bring together savory ground beef with the signature tangy and spicy buffalo sauce, creating a robust and exciting taco filling.
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Crispy Shrimp Tacos
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Ingredients
Mayo
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- salt and pepper
Crispy Shrimp
- oil for frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 3/4 cups panko bread crumbs
- 12 ounces shrimp peeled and deveined (tails removed, if desired)
Tacos
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- desired toppings: avocado slices, pickled chiles, thinly sliced red onions, shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime wedges, etc.
Instructions
Make the mayo:
- In a blender, combine the mustard, lime juice, garlic, and egg yolks. Pulse to combine. With the blender on low to medium low, start streaming in the oil. Continue to blend until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper.1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice, 2 cloves garlic, 2 egg yolks, 1 cup vegetable oil, salt and pepper
Make the shrimp:
- Pour about an inch of oil into a large skillet or pan. (I like to use a cast iron skillet.) Heat over medium heat until the oil shimmers.oil
- Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk the egg lightly with the milk. Place the panko in a third bowl. Coat the shrimp in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and then into the panko, coating completely. Place the shrimp in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about a minute on each side. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate.1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon milk, 1 3/4 cups panko bread crumbs, 12 ounces shrimp
Assemble the tacos:
- Place 2-3 shrimp down the center of each tortilla. Top with your desired toppings, then drizzle with the homemade mayo. Serve immediately.8 small corn or flour tortillas, desired toppings: avocado slices, pickled chiles, thinly sliced red onions, shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime wedges, etc.
Recipe Notes:
This recipe uses raw egg yolks in the homemade mayonnaise. For those who prefer to avoid raw eggs or have a weakened immune system, a high-quality store-bought mayonnaise can be used as a substitute. If using store-bought, we recommend thinning it slightly with a small amount of milk or water to achieve a drizzly consistency ideal for tacos.
Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide. Nutritional information is figured using flour tortillas. The nutritional value for the frying oil is based on a retention of 1/4 cup oil. Cooking time and temperature can cause this number to change. The toppings (avocado, chiles, onions, etc) have not been included.