Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner? My Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas are easy, tasty, and perfect for busy nights. With just one pan, you can enjoy the rich flavors of shrimp, bell peppers, and spices. This recipe is quick and uses simple ingredients like garlic and lime juice. So grab your sheet pan, and let’s dive into a meal that will please everyone at your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 bell peppers (one red, one green), sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
I love using large shrimp in this dish. They are sweet and tender. Bell peppers add color and crunch. Using one red and one green pepper gives a nice flavor mix. The red onion brings a mild sweetness.
Seasonings and Oils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil helps the shrimp and veggies cook nicely. Chili powder gives a warm kick. Cumin adds earthiness, while smoked paprika gives a hint of smoke. A little salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Additional Components
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Tortillas, for serving
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Garlic adds a strong, savory taste. Lime juice brightens up the dish. The tortillas are essential for wrapping the filling. Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness, making each bite even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Prepping the shrimp
Start with one pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water. This step ensures your shrimp taste fresh. Pat them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp cook better and get that nice sear.
Slicing the vegetables
Next, grab two bell peppers, one red and one green. Slice them into thin strips. This helps them cook evenly. Now, take one red onion and slice it as well. These veggies add color and crunch to your dish. Finally, mince three cloves of garlic. Garlic brings great flavor to your fajitas.
Combining the Ingredients
Mixing the shrimp and vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, sliced bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic. Toss them gently to mix. This helps ensure every piece is coated with flavor.
Adding seasonings
Drizzle two tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture. Then, add two teaspoons of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, and one teaspoon of smoked paprika. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Toss everything again until well coated. This step is key to getting bold flavors in your fajitas.
Cooking Process
Preparing the sheet pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, spread the shrimp and veggie mix evenly on a large sheet pan. Make sure they are in a single layer. This helps them cook properly and get that nice roasted texture.
Baking time and temperature details
Bake your fajitas in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them. The shrimp should turn opaque and the veggies should be tender. Once done, take the sheet pan out and drizzle it with lime juice. This adds a zesty touch to your meal. Enjoy your colorful, flavorful shrimp fajitas!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, do not overcook them. Cook shrimp for just 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). When they turn opaque, they’re ready. For crispy vegetables, cut them into uniform sizes. Thin slices cook faster and get crispy. Toss them with oil and spices before baking for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Fajitas shine when you serve them warm. Use soft tortillas to wrap the shrimp and veggies. You can also serve them on a plate with toppings on the side. Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream add great flavor. Fresh cilantro is a must for garnish. It brightens up every bite!
Equipment Recommendations
For even cooking, use a heavy-duty sheet pan. A large pan allows shrimp and veggies to spread out. This keeps them from steaming. Use a spatula for easy mixing and serving. A sharp knife makes slicing veggies quick and safe. Consider a cutting board that is easy to clean. This makes prep time a breeze!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the shrimp for other proteins. Chicken or tofu works well. Both options absorb the spices nicely. If you want to go plant-based, try jackfruit. It has a good texture and takes on flavors great.
For vegetables, you can use many options. Try zucchini or mushrooms for a fun twist. Corn adds sweetness and crunch. You can mix and match to suit your taste.
Flavor Adjustments
If you like it spicy, add more chili powder or some cayenne pepper. You can also use sliced jalapeños for fresh heat. For a milder version, skip the spicy stuff and focus on the smoky paprika.
You can add sweetness too. A bit of honey or brown sugar can balance the heat. Just a spoonful can change the whole dish. Adjust to find your perfect balance.
Dietary Modifications
For gluten-free options, use corn tortillas instead of flour. They taste amazing and hold the filling well. You can also skip the tortillas and serve it over rice.
If you want a vegan version, replace the shrimp with chickpeas. They add protein and texture. You can also use more veggies, like spinach or kale, for added nutrients.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, place shrimp fajitas in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. This way, your meal stays fresh. The shelf life in the fridge is about three days. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked shrimp fajitas for longer storage. Make sure they cool completely first. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. For best results, use them within three months. For thawing, move the container to the fridge overnight. This gentle method keeps the shrimp and veggies from getting mushy.
Reheating Instructions
The best methods for reheating are the oven or stovetop. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the fajitas on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. On the stovetop, use a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently for about five minutes until heated through. To avoid overcooking, watch closely. Remove them from heat just as they warm up.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long to cook shrimp in the oven?
You should cook shrimp in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. They will turn opaque when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and taste great.
Nutrition-Related Questions
How many calories are in shrimp fajitas?
Shrimp fajitas have about 250 to 300 calories per serving. This depends on how many tortillas and toppings you use.
Are shrimp fajitas healthy?
Yes, shrimp fajitas are healthy. They are low in fat and high in protein. The veggies add fiber and nutrients.
Cooking Technique Questions
Can I make this on a grill instead?
Yes, you can grill shrimp fajitas. Just use a grill pan or skewers. Cook them until the shrimp are opaque and the veggies are tender.
What temperature should shrimp be cooked to?
Shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 120°F. This ensures they are safe to eat and taste their best.
In this post, we explored making delicious shrimp fajitas. We covered the key ingredients, like shrimp, bell peppers, and spices. You learned how to prep and cook your meal step-by-step, with tips for perfect results. We also discussed variations and storage methods.
These fajitas are versatile and easy to adjust. You can make them fit any taste or diet. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy the process and indulge in a tasty meal!
