A Shrimp Burrito is the perfect combination of bold Mexican flavors, juicy shrimp, and fresh toppings all wrapped up in a soft, warm tortilla. Whether you prefer it grilled, sautéed, or fried, this burrito is loaded with delicious ingredients like seasoned shrimp, fluffy rice, black beans, melted cheese, and creamy avocado.
Unlike traditional burritos with beef or chicken, a shrimp burrito offers a lighter, seafood-packed twist that’s just as satisfying. You can keep it classic with simple fillings or go all out with spicy chipotle sauce, grilled peppers, and fresh pico de gallo.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Burrito Recipe
✔️ Juicy & Flavorful Shrimp – Cooked with a smoky, zesty seasoning blend.
✔️ Perfectly Balanced Fillings – A combination of creamy, crunchy, and fresh ingredients.
✔️ Easy to Customize – Make it spicy, cheesy, or extra saucy based on your preference.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and freeze extras for a quick meal later.
For more Mexican-inspired recipes, check out Grilled Cheese Burrito for another delicious wrap or Southern Cornbread Recipe to serve on the side!
What is a Shrimp Burrito?
A Shrimp Burrito is a Mexican-inspired dish that features juicy, seasoned shrimp wrapped in a soft tortilla along with a delicious mix of rice, beans, cheese, fresh toppings, and sauces. It’s a lighter, seafood-packed alternative to traditional beef or chicken burritos, while still offering bold, satisfying flavors.
This burrito can be grilled, sautéed, or fried, depending on the texture and flavor you prefer. It can also be Baja-style, featuring grilled shrimp and a fresh slaw, or spicy chipotle-style, with a smoky, creamy sauce.
Shrimp Burrito vs. Other Mexican Wraps
| Dish | Key Ingredients | Main Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp Burrito | Shrimp, rice, beans, cheese, avocado, salsa | Fully wrapped tortilla with a hearty filling. |
| Shrimp Taco | Shrimp, slaw, salsa, crema | Open-faced, served in a smaller tortilla. |
| Shrimp Quesadilla | Shrimp, cheese, tortillas | Grilled tortilla with a cheesy, folded filling. |
| Shrimp Enchilada | Shrimp, tortillas, enchilada sauce, cheese | Baked in sauce with melted cheese on top. |
A shrimp burrito is perfect when you want a portable, filling, and well-balanced meal with a mix of textures and flavors.
Now that we know what makes a Shrimp Burrito special, let’s go over the best ingredients needed to make it!
Ingredients Needed for the Best Shrimp Burrito
A great Shrimp Burrito starts with fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of savory, spicy, creamy, and crunchy textures. Here’s everything you’ll need to make the ultimate burrito at home.
Key Ingredients for the Shrimp
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Shrimp | The star of the dish—tender, juicy, and flavorful. |
| Olive Oil or Butter | Helps coat the shrimp while cooking. |
| Lime Juice | Adds brightness and a zesty kick. |
| Garlic Powder & Onion Powder | Enhances depth of flavor. |
| Chili Powder & Paprika | Gives a smoky, slightly spicy taste. |
| Cumin & Oregano | Traditional Mexican seasonings for warmth. |
The Best Fillings for a Shrimp Burrito
| Filling | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | Fluffy, well-seasoned, and absorbs flavor. |
| Black Beans | Adds protein and texture. |
| Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Queso Fresco) | Melts beautifully inside the burrito. |
| Avocado Slices or Guacamole | Creamy and rich, balances the spice. |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh, zesty, and slightly tangy. |
| Grilled Bell Peppers & Onions | Adds a sweet, smoky flavor. |
| Sour Cream or Chipotle Sauce | Creamy and cooling, balances the heat. |
| Chopped Cilantro & Jalapeños | Extra freshness and spice. |
Best Tortillas for a Shrimp Burrito
| Tortilla Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Large Flour Tortilla | Soft and flexible, holds all the fillings together. |
| Whole Wheat Tortilla | A healthier alternative with extra fiber. |
| Spinach or Tomato Tortilla | Adds color and slight flavor variation. |
| Gluten-Free Tortilla | A great option for gluten-sensitive eaters. |
Pro Tips for Choosing the Best Ingredients
✔️ Use fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
✔️ Toast the tortilla lightly before rolling for extra flexibility and a hint of smokiness.
✔️ Choose high-quality cheese that melts easily and adds a creamy bite.
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to how to cook the shrimp perfectly for your burrito!
How to Cook Shrimp for a Burrito (Grilled, Sautéed, or Fried)
The cooking method you choose for your shrimp will impact the texture and flavor of your Shrimp Burrito. Whether you prefer grilled, sautéed, or fried shrimp, each technique adds a unique touch to your burrito.
Option 1: Grilled Shrimp (Smoky & Charred)
Grilling shrimp gives them a slightly smoky flavor and a beautiful charred texture. This is perfect for a Baja-style shrimp burrito with fresh toppings.
How to Grill Shrimp:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F).
- Season the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and squeeze extra lime juice over them for added freshness.
✔️ Best For: A fresh, light burrito with slaw and avocado crema.
Option 2: Sautéed Shrimp (Quick & Flavorful)
Sautéing shrimp in a skillet is the easiest and fastest method while still packing plenty of flavor.
How to Sauté Shrimp:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly browned.
- Finish with fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro for a burst of freshness.
✔️ Best For: A classic shrimp burrito with beans, rice, cheese, and sour cream.
Option 3: Fried Shrimp (Crispy & Crunchy)
For a crispy, crunchy burrito, frying the shrimp creates an extra indulgent texture that pairs well with creamy sauces.
How to Fry Shrimp:
- Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour + salt & pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs + splash of water.
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs + chili powder & paprika.
- Dip shrimp in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Heat 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over 350°F.
- Fry shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on a wire rack to keep them crispy.
✔️ Best For: A crunchy burrito with chipotle mayo or avocado crema.
Pro Tips for Cooking Shrimp for Burritos
✔️ Don’t overcook shrimp—they should be pink and firm but still juicy.
✔️ Use fresh or thawed shrimp, not frozen, for better texture.
✔️ Let shrimp rest for a minute after cooking to absorb flavors before assembling the burrito.
Now that the shrimp is perfectly cooked, let’s move on to choosing the best tortillas for your Shrimp Burrito!
The Best Tortillas for a Shrimp Burrito
The tortilla is just as important as the filling in a Shrimp Burrito. It should be soft, flexible, and sturdy enough to hold all the delicious ingredients without breaking apart.
Best Tortilla Options for a Shrimp Burrito
| Tortilla Type | Best For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Large Flour Tortilla | Classic shrimp burrito | Soft, flexible, and easy to roll. |
| Whole Wheat Tortilla | Healthier option | Higher in fiber and slightly nutty in flavor. |
| Spinach Tortilla | Light & fresh burrito | Adds a mild, earthy taste with extra nutrients. |
| Tomato Basil Tortilla | A unique, colorful twist | Slightly sweet with a vibrant color. |
| Gluten-Free Tortilla | Alternative for gluten-sensitive eaters | A great option for dietary restrictions. |
Pro Tips for Choosing & Using Tortillas
✔️ Use burrito-sized tortillas (10–12 inches) to fit all the fillings.
✔️ Warm the tortilla before rolling—this makes it more flexible and prevents tearing.
✔️ Toast the tortilla on a skillet for extra flavor and structure.
✔️ Avoid overstuffing—too many fillings make rolling difficult and cause breakage.
Now that we have the perfect tortilla, let’s move on to the best fillings and toppings for your Shrimp Burrito!
The Best Fillings & Toppings for a Shrimp Burrito
A great shrimp burrito combines savory, creamy, crunchy, and fresh ingredients to create a balanced and flavorful bite. Whether you prefer a classic version or a more adventurous twist, these fillings and toppings will take your burrito to the next level.
Best Fillings for a Shrimp Burrito
| Filling | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | Fluffy and well-seasoned, absorbs extra moisture. |
| Black Beans or Refried Beans | Adds protein and a creamy texture. |
| Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Queso Fresco) | Melts beautifully and adds creaminess. |
| Avocado Slices or Guacamole | Rich and buttery, balances the spice. |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh and zesty, adds brightness. |
| Grilled Bell Peppers & Onions | Sweet and smoky, enhances the overall texture. |
| Sour Cream or Chipotle Mayo | Creamy and cooling, balances the heat. |
| Crispy Lettuce or Shredded Cabbage | Adds crunch and freshness. |
Best Toppings for a Shrimp Burrito
| Topping | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Fresh Cilantro | Brightens the flavors and adds freshness. |
| Sliced Jalapeños | Adds heat for spice lovers. |
| Pickled Red Onions | Tangy and slightly sweet, cuts through richness. |
| Lime Wedges | Enhances all the flavors with a citrusy touch. |
| Hot Sauce or Salsa Verde | Adds an extra layer of spice and depth. |
Pro Tips for Perfect Fillings & Toppings
- Use warm rice and beans to help hold everything together.
- Avoid too much liquid-heavy ingredients like extra salsa to prevent a soggy burrito.
- Keep the toppings balanced; too many ingredients can make rolling difficult.
Now that the fillings and toppings are ready, let’s move on to how to assemble and roll a shrimp burrito the right way.
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling & Rolling a Shrimp Burrito
Making a shrimp burrito is more than just piling ingredients onto a tortilla. A properly rolled burrito ensures that all the flavors are evenly distributed and that the burrito holds together without falling apart. Follow these steps for the perfect assembly.
Step 1: Warm the Tortilla
- Place the tortilla on a dry skillet over medium heat for 10-15 seconds per side.
- Warming makes the tortilla more pliable and less likely to tear when rolling.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings Properly
To avoid a messy burrito, place the fillings in the center in the following order:
| Layer | Ingredients | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Base Layer | Warm Mexican rice or black beans | Creates a stable base and absorbs moisture. |
| Protein | Cooked shrimp | Placed on top of rice for even distribution. |
| Cheese | Monterey Jack, cheddar, or queso fresco | Melts from the heat of the shrimp and rice. |
| Creamy Ingredients | Guacamole, sour cream, chipotle mayo | Spread evenly to balance textures. |
| Crunchy Additions | Lettuce, cabbage, pickled onions | Adds freshness and contrast. |
| Final Touches | Salsa, lime juice, fresh cilantro | Brings everything together with extra flavor. |
Step 3: Fold & Roll the Burrito
- Fold the sides inward to prevent fillings from spilling out.
- Tightly roll the burrito from the bottom up, tucking the ingredients as you go.
- Press down gently on the seam to keep it secure.
Step 4: Toast for Extra Crispiness (Optional)
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and place the burrito seam-side down.
- Toast for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- This step adds extra texture and helps keep the burrito sealed.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Burrito
- Avoid overstuffing to prevent the burrito from breaking apart.
- Use a light spread of sauce instead of drenching ingredients in liquid toppings.
- If meal prepping, wrap the burrito in foil or parchment paper for easy storage.
Now that the burrito is assembled and ready to eat, let’s explore the best sauces to pair with a shrimp burrito.
Best Sauces to Pair with a Shrimp Burrito
A great sauce can elevate a shrimp burrito by adding an extra layer of creaminess, spice, or tanginess. Whether you prefer a classic salsa or a rich, smoky aioli, these sauces will take your burrito to the next level.
Top Sauces for a Shrimp Burrito
| Sauce | Flavor Profile & Best Pairings |
|---|---|
| Chipotle Aioli | Smoky, creamy, and slightly spicy. Pairs well with grilled or fried shrimp. |
| Avocado Crema | Smooth, rich, and cooling. Balances heat from jalapeños or salsa. |
| Lime Crema | Tangy and refreshing. Enhances the citrus flavors in the shrimp. |
| Garlic Cilantro Sauce | Herbaceous and fresh. Great for adding a zesty punch. |
| Salsa Roja | Classic tomato-based salsa with a mild to spicy kick. Ideal for traditional shrimp burritos. |
| Salsa Verde | Made with tomatillos, offers a slightly tangy, green sauce with mild heat. |
| Mango Habanero Salsa | Sweet and fiery. Pairs well with grilled shrimp for a tropical twist. |
| Spicy Mayo | Adds heat and creaminess, perfect for fried shrimp burritos. |
How to Choose the Right Sauce
- For a mild burrito, use avocado crema, lime crema, or garlic cilantro sauce.
- For a spicy kick, go with chipotle aioli, salsa roja, or spicy mayo.
- For a fresh, citrusy contrast, try mango habanero salsa or lime crema.
Now that the perfect sauce has been chosen, let’s move on to what to serve with a shrimp burrito for a complete meal.
What to Serve with a Shrimp Burrito (Best Side Dishes)
A shrimp burrito is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can enhance the flavors and make the meal even more satisfying. Whether you prefer something light and fresh or warm and hearty, these sides will complement your burrito perfectly.
Best Classic Side Dishes
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mexican Street Corn (Elote) | Sweet, smoky, and creamy, pairs well with the bold flavors of a shrimp burrito. |
| Tortilla Chips & Guacamole | Crunchy contrast to the soft burrito, with a creamy and zesty dip. |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Light, citrusy, and refreshing, a great complement to shrimp. |
| Refried Beans | Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, adds protein to the meal. |
| Grilled Vegetables | Smoky and slightly charred, a great healthy side. |
| Chiles Toreados (Blistered Peppers) | Spicy, smoky, and flavorful, ideal for spice lovers. |
Lighter & Refreshing Side Options
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Cucumber Avocado Salad | Light, fresh, and cooling, balances out the burrito’s richness. |
| Mexican Slaw | Crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy, adds texture to the meal. |
| Pico de Gallo & Chips | Fresh, zesty, and great for scooping between burrito bites. |
| Jicama & Mango Salad | Sweet and crunchy, a tropical contrast to the savory burrito. |
| Pickled Jalapeños & Onions | Tangy, slightly spicy, and cuts through the richness of the shrimp. |
Best Drinks to Pair with a Shrimp Burrito
| Drink | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Horchata | Creamy, slightly sweet, cools down spicy burritos. |
| Agua Fresca (Hibiscus or Watermelon) | Light, fruity, and refreshing. |
| Classic Margarita | Citrus and tequila balance the burrito’s bold flavors. |
| Mexican Beer (Corona, Modelo, Pacifico) | Crisp and slightly bitter, pairs well with seafood. |
| Lime Sparkling Water | Light and refreshing, enhances the flavors without overpowering. |
Pro Tips for the Perfect Burrito Meal
- Serve the burrito with a side of extra salsa or crema for dipping.
- Add a side of warm tortilla chips for texture contrast.
- For a full meal, pair it with cilantro lime rice and grilled vegetables.
Now that we have the perfect side dishes, let’s move on to how to store and reheat a shrimp burrito properly to keep it fresh and delicious.
How to Store & Reheat a Shrimp Burrito
If you have leftover shrimp burritos, storing and reheating them properly will help maintain their freshness and texture without making them soggy. Follow these simple steps to keep your burrito just as delicious as when it was first made.
How to Store a Shrimp Burrito
| Storage Method | Best For | How Long? | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Leftover burrito | 2–3 days | Wrap in foil or parchment paper to prevent drying out. |
| Freezer | Meal prep | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil to prevent freezer burn. |
How to Reheat a Shrimp Burrito
| Reheating Method | Steps | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap burrito in foil, and heat for 12–15 minutes. | Even heating without drying out the tortilla. |
| Skillet | Heat on medium heat for 5 minutes per side, flipping occasionally. | Adds a crispy texture to the tortilla. |
| Air Fryer | Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway. | Best for restoring crispness to the burrito. |
| Microwave | Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. | Quickest option but can soften the tortilla. |
Pro Tips for Storing & Reheating
- Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the tortilla chewy and rubbery.
- For best results, reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain texture.
- If freezing, store sauce separately and add it after reheating to prevent sogginess.
- For meal prep, wrap and freeze burritos individually for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Now that you know how to store and reheat your shrimp burrito properly, let’s move on to frequently asked questions about shrimp burritos to cover any last-minute details.
FAQs About Shrimp Burritos
Is a shrimp burrito healthy?
It depends on the ingredients. A shrimp burrito can be a healthy meal if made with grilled shrimp, whole wheat tortillas, fresh veggies, and light sauces. However, adding fried shrimp, excessive cheese, and heavy sauces can increase calories and fat content.
What is in a traditional burrito?
A traditional burrito usually contains a large flour tortilla filled with protein (beef, chicken, or shrimp), rice, beans, cheese, and salsa. Some variations include avocado, sour cream, and grilled vegetables.
What is in a Filiberto’s shrimp burrito?
Filiberto’s shrimp burrito typically includes grilled shrimp, rice, refried beans, cheese, pico de gallo, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Does Taco Bell have shrimp burritos?
Taco Bell does not currently offer a shrimp burrito on its regular menu. However, some locations or limited-time promotions may feature seafood-based items.
Are burritos OK for weight loss?
Burritos can be part of a weight loss diet if made with lean proteins (grilled shrimp or chicken), whole grain tortillas, and lots of fresh vegetables while limiting cheese and heavy sauces. Portion control is key.
Is Mexican shrimp good for you?
Yes! Shrimp is high in protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. Choosing grilled or sautéed shrimp over fried options makes it a healthier choice.
Now that all your shrimp burrito questions are answered, let’s wrap up with why you’ll love this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A shrimp burrito is the perfect combination of savory, fresh, and bold flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla. Whether you enjoy it grilled, sautéed, or fried, this burrito offers endless possibilities for customization, making it a great choice for any meal.
Why This Shrimp Burrito Recipe Stands Out
- Juicy, flavorful shrimp seasoned to perfection.
- Perfect balance of textures, from creamy avocado to crunchy veggies.
- Customizable—adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add your favorite toppings.
- Easy to make at home, saving money while enjoying restaurant-quality flavors.
- Great for meal prep—make extra and store for quick lunches or dinners.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or a fresh new way to enjoy shrimp, this shrimp burrito recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
For more Mexican-inspired recipes, check out:
- Grilled Cheese Burrito – A delicious burrito variation with cheesy goodness.
- Southwest Chicken Salad – A refreshing and flavorful side dish.
- Southern Cornbread Recipe – A great addition to any meal.
Shrimp Burrito
Equipment
- Skillet or Grill – For cooking the shrimp
- Mixing Bowls – For seasoning and marinating shrimp
- Tongs – For flipping shrimp while cooking
- Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping toppings and slicing avocado
- Measuring Spoons & Cups – For precise ingredient measurements
- Spatula – For flipping the burrito if toasting
- Breading Station (for Fried Shrimp) – Three bowls for flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs
- Deep Skillet or Fryer (for Fried Shrimp) – If making crispy shrimp
- Foil or Parchment Paper – For wrapping burritos (optional for meal prep)
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco
- 1 ripe avocado sliced (or ½ cup guacamole)
- ½ cup pico de gallo fresh tomato salsa
- ½ cup grilled bell peppers and onions
- ¼ cup sour cream or chipotle sauce
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño thinly sliced (optional for spice)
- 4 large flour tortillas 10–12 inches
- Optional: Whole wheat spinach, or gluten-free tortillas
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Grilled Method: Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C). Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until slightly charred.
- Set up a breading station: flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with chili powder & paprika.
- Coat shrimp in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Heat 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Warm each tortilla for 10–15 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
- Lay the warm tortilla flat and add ½ cup Mexican rice as the base.
- Layer on ¼ cup black beans, cooked shrimp, shredded cheese, and avocado slices.
- Add pico de gallo, grilled peppers & onions, and a drizzle of sour cream or chipotle sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (if using).
- Fold in the sides slightly, then roll the burrito tightly from the bottom up, tucking in the ingredients as you go.
- For a crispy burrito, place seam-side down on a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Cut the burrito in half and serve with extra salsa, hot sauce, or a side of tortilla chips.
Notes
✔ Meal Prep Friendly: Wrap burritos in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Healthier Option: Use whole wheat tortillas, grilled shrimp, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
✔ Serving Suggestion: Pair with Mexican street corn (Elote), tortilla chips & guacamole, or a refreshing agua fresca.