Print

Flavorful Loaded Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Cream Cheese Slaw

loaded grilled shrimp tacos - featured image

These loaded grilled shrimp tacos feature smoky shrimp paired with a creamy, tangy cream cheese slaw, wrapped in warm tortillas for a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • ½ cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, extra lime wedges

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Squeeze the lime juice over and mix well. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the slaw.
  2. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese with apple cider vinegar and honey. Whisk until smooth. Add shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside in the fridge if you want it chilled.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot enough to sear the shrimp quickly without overcooking.
  4. Place shrimp on the grill in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque with grill marks. Remove from heat.
  5. Wrap tortillas in a clean cloth and warm them on the grill for about 30 seconds per side or until pliable and lightly charred.
  6. Spread a spoonful of cream cheese slaw on each tortilla, top with 3-4 grilled shrimp, and add any optional toppings like avocado slices or pickled jalapeños. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime if desired.

Notes

Keep the grill clean and well-oiled to prevent shrimp from sticking. Soften cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Warm tortillas wrapped in a damp towel to keep them soft. Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Slaw can be made ahead and chilled. Leftover shrimp and slaw should be stored separately and shrimp reheated quickly in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, grilled shrimp, cream cheese slaw, quick dinner, easy tacos, smoky shrimp, summer recipes, backyard BBQ, gluten-free option