Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas Easy and Flavorful Recipe

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? My Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. You’ll enjoy shrimp, colorful peppers, and spices roasted to perfection, all in one pan. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend get-together. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these easy-to-make, mouthwatering fajitas! Let’s dive into this fun and flavorful recipe together.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
– 1 red onion, sliced into thin wedges
– 8 small flour tortillas
Spices and Seasoning
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Juice of 1 fresh lime
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Ripe avocado, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot, even cook for your fajitas.
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier and keeps food from sticking.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. Make sure all the veggies are fresh and colorful.
Seasoning the Mixture
1. Drizzle three tablespoons of olive oil over the shrimp and veggies. This adds flavor and helps them cook well.
2. Sprinkle in two teaspoons of chili powder, one teaspoon of ground cumin, and one teaspoon of smoked paprika.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Squeeze the juice of one fresh lime over everything. This adds a nice zing to the dish.
5. Use tongs or your hands to toss everything together. Make sure the shrimp and veggies are coated well in the oil and spices.
Baking Instructions
1. Spread the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly across the sheet pan. Lay everything in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch closely as the shrimp should turn pink and opaque. The veggies should become tender but not mushy.
3. To check for doneness, look for the shrimp’s color change. If they are fully pink, they are ready.
4. While baking, warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for about 30 seconds on each side until they are slightly golden.
5. Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let it cool for a minute. Then, serve the shrimp and veggies with the warm tortillas.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Fajitas
To keep shrimp from overcooking, pay attention to cook time. Shrimp only need 12 to 15 minutes in the oven. They turn pink and opaque when ready. If you leave them in too long, they can get rubbery. You want them tender and juicy.
Spreading ingredients evenly on the sheet pan is key too. Make sure the shrimp and veggies lie flat. This helps them cook at the same rate. If they are bunched together, some may burn while others stay raw.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun family-style meal, serve the fajitas on a large platter. Lay out the warm tortillas beside the shrimp and veggies. This lets everyone build their own fajitas. It makes the meal more interactive and enjoyable.
Adding lime wedges is a great way to boost flavor. The fresh lime juice brightens the dish. Just squeeze some lime over your fajita before eating. It adds a nice zing!
Storage Recommendations
To store leftovers, let the fajitas cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for up to three days.
For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Warm the shrimp and veggies until heated through. This keeps them tender. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them again.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change up your shrimp fajitas by using different veggies. Try zucchini, mushrooms, or even sweet corn. Each adds a unique taste and texture. If you want to switch proteins, chicken or tofu works great too. For a fun twist, use corn tortillas instead of flour. They add a nice crunch and flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost taste, add cheese like shredded cheddar or crumbled feta. You can also mix in spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for extra kick. Marinades can change the whole dish. Try lime juice with cilantro or a spicy chipotle sauce for a new flavor.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, choose corn tortillas or skip the tortillas entirely. For veggie lovers, make a vegetarian version. Use beans or extra veggies in place of shrimp. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal!
Nutritional Information
Breakdown of Nutrients
This recipe makes four servings. Each serving has about:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 15g
– Sodium: 550mg
– Carbohydrates: 30g
The shrimp gives you protein. The olive oil adds healthy fats. The tortillas provide carbohydrates for energy.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Shrimp is low in calories and rich in nutrients. It has omega-3 fatty acids, which help heart health.
Bell peppers are high in vitamins A and C. They also add fiber, which is good for digestion.
Using fresh ingredients boosts flavor and nutrition. Fresh veggies have more vitamins than canned ones.
Portion Control
For balanced meals, serve two tortillas per person. Each serving includes a good mix of protein and vegetables. This helps keep you full and satisfied. Adjust serving sizes based on your needs. Enjoy your fajitas with a side of fresh salad for extra crunch!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. To thaw frozen shrimp, place it in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Change the water halfway through to help the thawing. After thawing, make sure to pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and allows the spices to stick well.
How do I know the shrimp is cooked?
To know if shrimp is cooked, look for a few signs. Cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque. It should curl into a “C” shape. If it curls into an “O,” it might be overcooked. Cook the shrimp for 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Always keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
What can I serve with shrimp fajitas?
You can serve shrimp fajitas with several side dishes. Here are some great ideas:
– Refried beans
– Mexican rice
– Guacamole
– Salsa
– Fresh salad
– Corn on the cob
These sides bring extra flavor and color to your meal. Enjoy a fun family-style serving and let everyone build their own fajitas!
Shrimp fajitas are simple and fun to make. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step prep, and tasty tips. Don’t forget to customize with your favorite veggies and toppings. Enjoy them fresh and share with family. Remember, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Store leftovers for later meals. Get creative and make these fajitas your own. Now, it’s time to grab your shrimp and enjoy a delicious dish!
