Imagine biting into a warm tortilla filled with juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp, fluffy rice, and creamy avocado, all topped with fresh salsa and a squeeze of lime. This Shrimp Burrito Recipe is not just a meal—it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds straight to a coastal paradise.
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or even meal prep, this recipe combines bold spices, fresh ingredients, and endless customization options. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, these burritos deliver a satisfying and nutritious meal in every bite.
Table of contents
What Is a Shrimp Burrito?
A shrimp burrito is a flavorful twist on the classic burrito, featuring tender, seasoned shrimp wrapped in a warm tortilla alongside a medley of delicious fillings. Typically, it includes fluffy rice, creamy beans, sweet corn, zesty salsa, and fresh avocado, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
This dish is lighter than traditional burritos with heavier proteins like beef or pork, yet it’s just as satisfying. The shrimp brings a fresh, coastal vibe to the meal, making it ideal for warm weather gatherings or as a quick weeknight dinner.
With its versatile ingredients and endless topping possibilities, a shrimp burrito is a great choice for anyone looking to elevate their burrito game while keeping preparation simple and fun.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Burrito Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This Shrimp Burrito Recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something fast yet delicious. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a no-fuss option for a flavorful meal.
2. Packed with Flavor
From the perfectly seasoned shrimp to the vibrant salsa and creamy avocado, every bite of this burrito is bursting with fresh, bold flavors. The combination of textures—from the tender shrimp to the fluffy rice and crunchy toppings—makes it irresistible.
3. Customizable for Any Diet
Whether you’re looking to cut carbs, go dairy-free, or add extra veggies, this recipe is easy to adapt to suit your dietary preferences. Swap the tortillas for lettuce wraps, add plant-based cheese, or load up on fresh greens for a personalized twist.
4. Great for Meal Prep
These burritos can be assembled ahead of time, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Wrap them tightly and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick grab-and-go lunch or dinner.
This recipe is all about bringing maximum flavor and flexibility to your kitchen, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Shrimp Burrito Recipe
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful and versatile Shrimp Burrito Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb | Peeled, deveined, and tails removed |
| Tortillas | 4 large | Flour or gluten-free tortillas |
| Rice | 1 cup | Cooked, white or brown |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained and rinsed |
| Corn | 1 cup | Fresh, canned, or frozen |
| Salsa | 1/2 cup | Mild, medium, or hot |
| Avocado | 1 | Sliced or mashed |
| Lime | 1 | For juice and garnish |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup | Chopped, for garnish |
| Taco seasoning | 2 tbsp | Store-bought or homemade |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For cooking shrimp |
Ingredient Notes
- Shrimp: Use large shrimp for easier preparation and a meatier texture. Frozen shrimp works great—just thaw before cooking.
- Tortillas: Warm the tortillas before assembling for better flexibility and to prevent cracking.
- Rice: Feel free to use flavored rice, such as cilantro-lime or Spanish rice, for added depth.
- Beans: Black beans are traditional, but pinto beans or refried beans also work well.
- Salsa: Choose a salsa that suits your spice tolerance, or use fresh pico de gallo for a chunkier texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Shrimp Burrito Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make your Shrimp Burrito Recipe a success:
1. Preparing the Shrimp
- Season the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with taco seasoning, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking.
- Set Aside:
- Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Preparing the Fillings
- Cook the Rice:
- If not already done, prepare 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Warm the Beans and Corn:
- In a small saucepan, heat the black beans and corn until warmed through. Drain if necessary.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- Slice or mash the avocado and chop the cilantro. Set them aside for assembly.
3. Assembling the Burritos
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet for 15–20 seconds per side, or microwave them for 10–15 seconds to make them pliable.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- On each tortilla, spread a layer of rice, followed by the black beans, corn, cooked shrimp, and salsa.
- Add avocado slices, a squeeze of lime juice, and sprinkle with cilantro.
- Fold the Burritos:
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
4. Serving the Burritos
- Serve Immediately:
- Place the burritos seam-side down on a plate and serve warm.
- Optional Crispy Finish:
- For extra texture, toast the assembled burritos in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Customizing Your Shrimp Burrito Recipe
The best part about a Shrimp Burrito Recipe is its versatility. Whether you want to spice things up, make it lighter, or add extra toppings, here are some ideas to customize your burritos:
1. Adding Extra Veggies to Your Shrimp Burrito Recipe
- Bell Peppers and Onions: Sautéed peppers and onions add a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Shredded Lettuce: Add fresh crunch with shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce.
- Cabbage Slaw: Mix shredded cabbage with lime juice and cilantro for a tangy, refreshing twist.
- Tomatoes or Pico de Gallo: Fresh diced tomatoes or pico de gallo add brightness and texture.
2. Creative Sauce Options for Shrimp Burrito Recipes
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Add a dollop for a creamy tang.
- Chipotle Mayo: A spicy mayo brings bold heat and flavor.
- Guacamole: Replace or pair with avocado slices for an extra creamy layer.
- Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
3. Low-Carb Variations for a Healthy Shrimp Burrito Recipe
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce instead of tortillas.
- Low-Carb Tortillas: Opt for keto-friendly or almond flour tortillas for a lighter option.
- Cauliflower Rice: Swap regular rice for cauliflower rice to cut carbs and add nutrients.
4. Protein Variations
- Grilled Shrimp: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp instead of sautéing them.
- Surf and Turf: Add cooked steak or chicken alongside the shrimp for a hearty twist.
- Plant-Based: Use seasoned jackfruit or tofu for a vegetarian option.
5. Spice It Up
- Jalapeños or Serrano Peppers: Add fresh or pickled peppers for extra heat.
- Cayenne Pepper or Chili Flakes: Mix these into the taco seasoning for a spicier shrimp filling.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Burrito Recipe
Creating a Shrimp Burrito Recipe that’s flavorful, fresh, and satisfying is easy with these expert tips:
1. Use Large Shrimp
- Opt for large shrimp as they’re easier to handle and provide a meaty bite. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
2. Season Generously
- Shrimp have a mild flavor, so don’t skimp on the taco seasoning or spices. You can also marinate the shrimp in lime juice and garlic for extra flavor.
3. Warm the Tortillas
- Warm tortillas are less likely to rip and are easier to fold. Use a skillet or microwave to soften them before assembling.
4. Don’t Overfill
- Resist the temptation to overfill the burrito. This makes folding easier and prevents the ingredients from spilling out during cooking or eating.
5. Add Layers of Flavor
- Balance the burrito with a mix of textures and flavors. Creamy avocado or sour cream complements the bold spices, while fresh toppings like salsa or pico de gallo add brightness.
6. Toast for a Crispy Finish
- After assembling, toast the burritos in a skillet for 1–2 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor and texture with a golden, crispy exterior.
7. Serve Fresh
- For the best taste, serve the burritos immediately after assembling. If making ahead, keep the wet ingredients like salsa or avocado separate until ready to eat.
8. Prep in Advance
- Cook the rice, beans, and shrimp ahead of time to save effort during assembly. Store each component in the refrigerator until you’re ready to build your burritos.
FAQs About Shrimp Burrito Recipe
Are shrimp burritos healthy?
Yes, shrimp burritos can be a healthy meal, especially when made with fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients. Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein, while additional fillings like black beans, corn, and avocado provide fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. To make them even healthier, opt for whole-grain tortillas and reduce high-calorie sauces.
What is in a traditional burrito?
A traditional burrito typically includes a flour tortilla filled with seasoned meat (like beef, chicken, or pork), beans, rice, and cheese. Additional toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are common, depending on regional variations.
What is in a Filiberto’s shrimp burrito?
Filiberto’s shrimp burrito generally includes grilled or sautéed shrimp, rice, beans, pico de gallo, and shredded lettuce, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. Some variations might include creamy sauces or spicy salsas to enhance the flavor.
What’s the best thing to put in a burrito?
The best burrito fillings depend on your preferences, but some classic options include seasoned protein (like shrimp, chicken, or steak), rice, beans, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. For extra flavor, add sautéed vegetables, spicy jalapeños, or creamy sauces like chipotle mayo.
Conclusion
The Shrimp Burrito Recipe is a perfect combination of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and versatility. Whether you’re craving a quick and easy dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a meal-prep option that doesn’t compromise on taste, this recipe has you covered. With juicy shrimp, seasoned rice, creamy avocado, and zesty salsa wrapped in a warm tortilla, every bite is an explosion of flavor.
The fact that this dish is so adaptable just enhances it. From adding your favorite veggies to experimenting with sauces and spices, you can make it uniquely yours. Plus, with easy storage and reheating options, these burritos are just as good the next day.
Ready to bring some coastal-inspired flavor to your kitchen? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the perfect Shrimp Burrito! Don’t forget to share your favorite customizations or serving ideas in the comments—we’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own.