Skillet shrimp fajitas are a quick and tasty meal! With juicy shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and zesty seasonings, they are perfect for a fun dinner. Plus, they come together in just one pan!
Who doesn’t love the sizzle of fajitas? I like to wrap them in warm tortillas and top with a bit of sour cream. It’s a fiesta on a plate, and my friends always ask for seconds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for this dish as they cook quickly and have a lovely texture. If shrimp isn’t available, try chicken or firm tofu for a tasty alternative!
Spices: The mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika creates a nice flavor profile. Feel free to substitute with taco seasoning or add crushed red pepper for heat.
Bell Peppers: Using red and green peppers adds sweetness and color. Yellow and orange bell peppers work too. You can skip them for a lighter version or add zucchini for a twist.
Avocado: Sliced avocado is great for creaminess. If you don’t have any, creamy Greek yogurt or sour cream makes an excellent substitute!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky—overcook them and they turn tough! Here’s what to do to get them just right:
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps sear the shrimp quickly for better texture.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on the first side. They should turn pink and char slightly.
- Flip them carefully, then add your veggies. This way, you ensure the shrimp finish cooking without becoming rubbery.
- Watch for the shrimp turning opaque. When they reach that point, it’s time to remove them from heat!
How to Make Skillet Shrimp Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
For Serving:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Tortillas, for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Skillet Shrimp Fajitas recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a tasty meal ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated with the spices and oil. This will give them a wonderful flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, until they start to turn pink and get a little char. This step is key for that yummy flavor!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Time to flip the shrimp over! Once they’re partly cooked, add the sliced red and green bell peppers, and onion to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are fully cooked and the veggies are tender. Smells amazing, doesn’t it?
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Turn off the heat and taste the fajita mix. Adjust the seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if you think it needs it. Now, it’s time to serve! Grab warm tortillas and fill them with the shrimp and veggie mixture. Top with sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, and fresh cilantro if you’re using it. Enjoy your delicious Skillet Shrimp Fajitas!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. To do this quickly, place the frozen shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Drain and pat dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Certain Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing any of the spices, you can substitute with taco seasoning or fajita seasoning as a convenient option. Alternatively, using fresh garlic and a dash of cayenne pepper can add great flavor and heat!
How to Store Leftover Fajitas
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also heat them in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in or substitute other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or corn. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of vegetables you choose to ensure everything is cooked through and tender.
