Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Pasta

Name: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup cooked pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors that come together in these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Pasta. The combination of succulent shrimp, a kick of spice, and fresh ingredients wrapped in a soft tortilla creates an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With quick prep and cooking times, I can whip these up on a busy weeknight or serve them at gatherings. Trust me, the next time you're looking for something deliciously different, you'll want to try this recipe!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:02:19.151Z

When I first made these Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Pasta, I was amazed by how quickly everything came together. The shrimp seasoned with just the right amount of spice pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta, creating a unique twist on traditional tacos. I found that marinating the shrimp for even a short time enhances the flavor tremendously, so don’t skip that step!

What I enjoy most about this dish is its versatility. You can customize the level of heat by adjusting the spices or add extra toppings like avocado or cilantro for freshness. Cooking the shrimp until they just turn pink ensures they remain tender and juicy, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
A unique twist on traditional tacos
Versatile toppings to please any palate

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the bold flavors in these Spicy Shrimp Tacos lies in the combination of spices used. Chili powder and cumin provide a warm, earthy base, while cayenne pepper offers a punch of heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the cayenne or substitute it with smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky touch. Fresh cilantro adds brightness and a hint of herbal notes, balancing out the richness of the sour cream in the finished taco.

When it comes to the shrimp, opting for high-quality, wild-caught shrimp can make a significant difference in texture and flavor. Always ensure they are properly peeled and deveined; this not only enhances the eating experience but also allows the marinade to penetrate more effectively. If shrimp aren’t available, you can substitute with chicken breast or firm tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to maintain juiciness.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Marinating the shrimp is an essential step that should not be rushed. Allowing them to marinate for a minimum of 10 minutes—and ideally up to 30 minutes—gives the spices time to infuse the shrimp with flavor. This waiting period also helps tenderize the shrimp, ensuring they remain juicy when cooked. Keep an eye on them while cooking; overcooking can lead to rubbery textures, so aim for a golden color and firm, but not hard, meat.

Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial for achieving the right texture in these tacos. This means boiling the pasta until it's just firm to the bite, which will counterbalance the softness of the tortillas. If you're using penne or fusilli, the ridges help sauce and the shrimp adhere better, creating a more cohesive dish. To elevate the dish even further, consider tossing the drained pasta with a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of salt before assembling your tacos.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Tacos

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup cooked pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Pasta!

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and olive oil. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Cook the Pasta

While the shrimp is marinating, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the marinated shrimp for about 5 minutes, or until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.

Assemble Tacos

To each tortilla, add a scoop of cooked pasta, the shrimp, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Top with a squeeze of lime juice.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tacos warm with extra lime wedges on the side and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Enjoy these tacos fresh off the skillet for the best taste experience!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding shredded cabbage or diced bell peppers. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for a build-your-own taco bar style dinner. Set out bowls of toppings such as diced avocados, pickled onions, and fresh salsa to let guests customize their tacos. You can also serve a simple green salad or Mexican street corn on the side for a colorful presentation that complements the flavors of the tacos.

For a boost of freshness, consider providing a range of salsas, from mango to tomatillo, that can enhance the existing flavors of the shrimp and pasta. A cool, creamy salsa or extra sour cream can also help balance the heat, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Don't forget some tortilla chips with guacamole as a crunchy starter while the tacos are being assembled!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and pasta separately from the tortillas to maintain their textures. Place the shrimp and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 days. The tortillas can be stacked and wrapped in foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the shrimp and pasta in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

If you're making these tacos for meal prep, consider mixing the marinade in advance. Just toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit submerged in it in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This little prep step can save you time on a busy evening. The flavors will deepen and develop, especially if left overnight, making your meals even tastier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tacos in advance?

While the shrimp and pasta are best fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add avocado slices, jalapenos, diced tomatoes, or even cheese for an extra layer of flavor!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover shrimp and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze these tacos?

We recommend eating them fresh. However, you can freeze the shrimp and pasta separately before cooking.