If you crave a tasty meal that’s quick and easy, you’ve found it! Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Slaw Delight are a perfect mix of fresh flavors. Imagine juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter, and zesty pineapple slaw all in soft tortillas. This recipe is fun, simple, and a great way to impress family or friends. Let’s dive into the tasty details and get cooking!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos
For these tacos, you need:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small corn tortillas
These ingredients create a tasty base for your tacos. The shrimp gives a nice protein boost, while the garlic and butter add rich flavor. Paprika and chili powder bring warmth and depth.
Pineapple Slaw Components
The slaw adds a fresh crunch. You will need:
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely chopped
– ½ cup carrot, shredded
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
This slaw is bright and zesty. The pineapple gives sweetness, while the lime juice adds tang. Red cabbage and carrot provide color and crunch.
Optional Garnishes
To elevate your tacos, consider adding:
– Slices of lime
– Extra cilantro
These garnishes boost the flavor and presentation. Lime adds a citrusy zing, while cilantro gives freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Prepare Pineapple Slaw
To make the pineapple slaw, get a medium mixing bowl. Add the shredded red cabbage, fresh pineapple, and shredded carrot. Then, toss in the chopped cilantro. Drizzle the lime juice and honey over the mix. Stir gently until everything is combined well. Let the slaw sit for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together, making it tasty and refreshing.
Cooking the Garlic Butter Shrimp
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Let it melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning. Now, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle the shrimp with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Warming the Corn Tortillas
Next, take a separate skillet and warm the corn tortillas. Heat it over medium heat. Cook each tortilla for about 15-30 seconds on each side. You want them pliable and slightly charred. This adds a nice flavor and makes them easy to fold.
Assembling the Tacos
Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take a warm tortilla and place a few shrimp in the center. Top it generously with the pineapple slaw. If you like, add slices of lime and extra cilantro for garnish. This adds a bright touch and makes your tacos look beautiful. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Cooking Perfect Shrimp
To cook perfect shrimp, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. You want them peeled and deveined. Heat your skillet to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Then, add minced garlic. Cook it for 30 seconds. This keeps the garlic fragrant without burning. Next, add shrimp and sprinkle paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook them for 4-5 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque. This shows they are done.
Best Practices for Flavorful Slaw
A great slaw needs balance. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Combine shredded red cabbage, pineapple, and carrot in a bowl. Add cilantro for freshness. Drizzle lime juice and honey over the mix. Toss gently to mix the flavors. Let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld nicely.
Suggestions for Tortilla Preparation
Warming the tortillas is key. It makes them soft and easy to fold. Heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Place each tortilla in the skillet for 15-30 seconds per side. You want them to be pliable with slight char spots. This adds flavor that enhances your tacos.

Variations
Alternative Proteins to Use
You can swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works great in this recipe. Use about 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Cook it in the same garlic butter mix. Fish is another option. Try firm white fish like tilapia or cod. Use the same method for cooking, but adjust the time. If you want a meat-free option, use mushrooms. They soak up the flavors well.
Different Slaw Options
While pineapple slaw is tasty, you can get creative. Try using red cabbage alone for a crunchier slaw. Add some apples for a sweet twist. Shredded brussels sprouts offer a nice texture too. If you love spice, add jalapeños to your slaw. You can change the dressing too. Swap honey for agave for a vegan option.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp. You can also use spicy paprika instead of regular. If you like less spice, cut back on chili powder. Serve your tacos with hot sauce on the side. This way, everyone can adjust to their taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Tacos
To keep your leftover tacos fresh, place them in an airtight container. Store the shrimp and slaw separately. This prevents sogginess. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, heat the shrimp in a skillet. Use medium heat and stir often. This should take about 3-4 minutes. You want them warm but not overcooked. For the slaw, give it a quick toss and serve cold. You can also add a splash of lime juice to freshen it up.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to freeze your tacos, do so right after cooking. Wrap the shrimp tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the slaw in a separate airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. Ensure they are peeled and deveined. This helps with even cooking. Frozen shrimp work well and save time.
What can I substitute for corn tortillas?
You can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Lettuce wraps are another great option for a lighter choice. Both will hold the shrimp and slaw nicely. Just remember to warm them up before serving.
How spicy is this dish?
This dish has mild heat from the chili powder. It’s not too spicy, so most people can enjoy it. If you like heat, add more chili powder or jalapeños. You can adjust it to fit your taste.
Can I prepare the slaw in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw ahead of time. Make it up to a day before serving. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to blend and taste even better. Just give it a quick toss before serving.
This article covered how to make garlic butter shrimp tacos. You learned about essential ingredients, like shrimp and slaw, and garnishes. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for cooking, and variations to try.
Remember to store leftovers properly for the best taste. Whether you spice them up or change proteins, these tacos are delightful. You can customize them to fit your taste. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty tacos with friends and family.
