Craving a quick and tasty meal? Try my Garlic Butter Shrimp Fajitas Sheet Pan Delight! This dish brings juicy shrimp and colorful veggies together on one easy-to-clean pan. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with bold flavors and a beautiful presentation! Dive in to learn how you can make this delicious meal tonight.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium red onion, sliced
Seasoning and Flavorings
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Juice of 1 lime
– Corn or flour tortillas (to serve)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Garlic butter shrimp fajitas are simple yet full of flavor. The large shrimp add a nice touch of sweetness. The red and green bell peppers bring color and crunch. The red onion adds a bit of sharpness.
The garlic butter mixture is key. It makes the shrimp juicy and rich. The smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder add depth. A pinch of salt and pepper rounds out the flavors.
Don’t forget the unsalted butter. It helps the garlic and spices stick. Fresh lime juice adds brightness. Serve it all in warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro for that pop of green. These ingredients work together to create a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures even cooking.
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Add smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until mixed.
Combining Ingredients
1. Add the shrimp to the garlic mixture. Toss them until they are fully coated. This adds great flavor to the shrimp.
2. In another bowl, mix the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lime. Season with a bit of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the veggies well.
Baking
1. Spread the seasoned vegetables on one side of the prepared baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Arrange the shrimp on the other side in a single layer. This ensures they cook properly without steaming.
3. Bake everything in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and the veggies should be tender.
4. Remove the sheet from the oven and drizzle fresh lime juice over the shrimp and veggies. Toss lightly to combine.
This method gives you a quick and delicious meal. Enjoy it with warm tortillas and fresh cilantro on top!
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Tips
Choosing the best shrimp
When buying shrimp, look for large, fresh shrimp. They should be firm and slightly shiny. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy smell. Frozen shrimp can work too; just thaw them before cooking.
Selecting fresh vegetables
Choose bright and crisp bell peppers and onions. They should feel heavy and firm. Avoid any that look dull or soft. Fresh veggies add color and crunch to your fajitas.
Cooking Tips
Ensuring perfectly cooked shrimp
Cook shrimp until they turn pink and curl slightly. This usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes in the oven. Overcooking can make them tough, so watch them closely.
Adjusting spices for preferred heat levels
If you want more heat, add extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper. For milder flavors, reduce the chili powder. Taste the garlic butter mix before adding shrimp for the right balance.
Serving Tips
Presentation ideas
Serve fajitas on a large platter for a fun family meal. Arrange shrimp and veggies nicely. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a pop of color.
Keeping tortillas warm
Wrap tortillas in a clean cloth to keep them warm. You can also place them in a covered dish. This ensures they stay soft and ready to fill with your tasty shrimp and veggies.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up proteins in this recipe. Try using chicken or tofu if you prefer. For chicken, cut it into thin strips and adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked. Tofu gives a great texture and absorbs flavors well. For vegetables, mix and match. You could add zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for a different taste.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to kick up the flavor? Add extra spices like cayenne pepper or oregano. You can also toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh taste. Experiment with different tortillas too. Whole wheat or spinach tortillas can add a nice touch. You can even try flavored tortillas for extra fun.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, pair these fajitas with sides like rice or salads. A simple cilantro lime rice complements the shrimp well. You can also serve them with a fresh garden salad for a light option. Include lime wedges on the side; they add a burst of flavor. This meal is perfect for family-style serving on a big platter.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your garlic butter shrimp fajitas fresh, follow these steps:
– Place leftovers in an airtight container.
– Store in the fridge for up to three days.
– For longer storage, freeze the fajitas.
– Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
– Shrimp fajitas can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, use one of these methods:
– Microwave: Place fajitas on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through.
– Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place fajitas on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes.
– Skillet: Warm a skillet over medium heat. Cook fajitas for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
To keep flavor and texture, avoid overheating. Check for warmth before serving.
Shelf Life
Leftovers can last a few days, but watch for these signs:
– Shrimp should look pink and firm.
– Vegetables need to be bright and crisp.
– If there’s an off smell or slimy texture, discard it.
Following these tips helps you enjoy your garlic butter shrimp fajitas safely!
FAQs
How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
You can tell shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a C shape. If they look gray or feel tough, they need more time. Cook shrimp for 12-15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). They should be tender and juicy. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.
Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Fajitas in advance?
Yes, you can prep your ingredients ahead. Chop the veggies and marinate the shrimp a few hours before cooking. Store them in the fridge in separate containers. This makes for a quick dinner. Just remember to bake everything when you’re ready to eat.
What are the best sides to serve with shrimp fajitas?
Great sides include:
– Rice (white or brown)
– Black beans
– Guacamole
– Salsa
– Fresh salad
For drinks, consider:
– Margaritas
– Lime soda
– Iced tea
These sides pair well with the garlic butter shrimp fajitas and add fun flavors to your meal.
This guide covered all you need to make great Garlic Butter Shrimp Fajitas. We talked about key ingredients, easy steps, and tips for best results. You can adjust flavors and try different proteins too.
In the end, cooking is fun and tasty. Enjoy your fajitas fresh and share with friends. Happy cooking!
