These Baja Shrimp Tacos are packed with crispy beer-battered shrimp, avocado, and a fresh and creamy cilantro lime slaw—all wrapped in warm tortillas. Inspired by classic beachside tacos, this easy recipe comes together in just minutes for the ultimate taco night upgrade.
For the Baja Shrimp: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, if using, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beer and whisk until smooth. Use a spatula to stir if the batter becomes too thick to whisk. Pat shrimp dry and add to the batter. Toss until well coated.
1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 ¼ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¾ cup light Mexican beer, 1 ¼ pounds large shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add half of the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Meanwhile, line a large plate with a paper towel. Once the shrimp are golden brown and crispy, transfer to the paper towel-lined plate to drain. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons avocado oil to the skillet and cook the remaining shrimp.
4 tablespoons avocado oil
For the Creamy Cilantro Slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, sriracha, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the shredded cabbage and 1⁄3 cup of the chopped cilantro. Toss until well coated. Set aside until ready to serve.
5.3 ounce container plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 2 teaspoons grated lime zest, 1 teaspoon sriracha, 1 garlic clove, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ large head green cabbage
To Assemble the Tacos: Toast the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame until lightly charred. Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of the Creamy Cilantro Slaw, a few fried shrimp, and 1-2 slices of avocado.
8 corn tortillas
Serve the tacos immediately with the remaining chopped cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
2 small avocados, Green onions, Lime wedges
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Notes
Beer: Be sure to grab a light, Mexican-style beer for the best flavor.
Frying: Heat oil until shimmering; avoid oil that is too hot or cool.
Storage: Store everything separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat shrimp in an air fryer for the best results, or use a skillet. Shrimp will turn out soggy in a microwave.