Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Nachos bring a seafood twist to a beloved dish, offering a unique and delicious variation on the classic nacho platter. The shrimp is seasoned perfectly, adding a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the gooey cheese and crispy chips. The toppings—like fresh avocado, tangy sour cream, and zesty salsa—add brightness and balance to the richness of the melted cheese. Plus, this recipe is customizable, so you can adjust the toppings to suit your taste, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the nachos:

10-12 oz tortilla chips
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the toppings:

1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/4 cup salsa or pico de gallo
Lime wedges, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the shrimp:

Season the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

For the nachos:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Assemble the nachos: On the prepared baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips, then add the black beans (if using), diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and red onion. Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake the nachos: Place the nachos in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are slightly crispy.

For serving:

Add the shrimp: Once the nachos are done baking, remove them from the oven and top with the cooked shrimp. Add sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and salsa or pico de gallo on top.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the nachos with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add guacamole: For an extra creamy topping, add a scoop of fresh guacamole on top of the nachos for an extra burst of flavor.
Spicy shrimp: If you like your shrimp with a kick, marinate them in a mixture of hot sauce and lime juice for a few minutes before cooking, or drizzle hot sauce on top of the nachos.
Vegetarian option: Skip the shrimp and load the nachos with more vegetables like roasted corn, bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack for extra spice or queso blanco for a creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the chips may become soggy. The shrimp can be stored separately in the fridge.
Reheating: To reheat, place the nachos in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the shrimp separately in the skillet over low heat for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make these nachos ahead of time?

While nachos are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare all the components ahead of time—cook the shrimp, chop the veggies, and assemble the nachos. When ready to serve, just bake and top with the shrimp and garnishes.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta for a unique twist.

4. Can I add other toppings to the nachos?

Absolutely! You can top the nachos with sour cream, guacamole, pickled red onions, or even crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

5. How can I make these nachos spicier?

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or drizzle with sriracha sauce. You can also add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning for extra heat.

6. Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can use grilled chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian protein like black beans or grilled tofu for a different version of the nachos.

7. Can I make these nachos gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free tortilla chips to make the nachos gluten-free. Be sure to check that the other ingredients (like the shrimp seasoning and sauces) are gluten-free as well.

8. Can I bake the nachos without using a baking sheet?

Yes, you can make the nachos in a large, oven-safe dish or directly on the oven rack with parchment paper to catch any melted cheese drips. Just make sure the cheese has room to melt evenly.

9. Can I add a sauce to drizzle on top of the nachos?

Yes! A creamy sauce like ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or a cheese sauce would be great drizzled over the nachos for an extra burst of flavor.

10. Can I make these nachos without jalapeños?

Yes, you can skip the jalapeños if you prefer a milder version. You can replace them with other veggies like diced bell peppers or simply stick with the classic tomato topping.

Conclusion

Shrimp Nachos are a delightful and unique twist on the classic nacho recipe, bringing together succulent shrimp, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips in one mouthwatering dish. With the combination of fresh toppings, creamy avocado, and a zesty, savory base, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s game day, a casual gathering, or a fun family dinner. Serve them up, and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite