These Shrimp Guacamole Bites are a tasty treat combining juicy shrimp and creamy guacamole on crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for parties or a fun snack!
It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and let’s be honest, who can resist shrimp and guac? I always take extras because they disappear quickly. Oops! 😂
I love to whip these up in a flash. Just cook the shrimp, mix the guac, and layer them on chips—it’s that easy! They’re fresh, fun, and sure to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium shrimp work too! For a twist, try using cooked shrimp to save time, just make sure to heat them gently so they don’t become rubbery.
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture. If avocados are hard, place them in a brown paper bag to speed up ripening. No avocados handy? You can substitute with store-bought guacamole, though fresh is always best!
Lime: Fresh lime juice adds brightness. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro contributes a fresh flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative. It won’t be as bold, but it’ll still add some color and freshness.
Feta or Cotija Cheese: I love using feta for its tangy flavor, but cotija gives a lovely creamy texture. If you’re avoiding cheese, skip it or sprinkle some nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Getting shrimp perfectly cooked can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easy. It’s important to ensure they’re cooked just right — not too raw or overcooked. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet—medium-high heat is best!
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan before the shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook shrimp just 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and form a ‘C’ shape.
- Remove the shrimp from heat as soon as they’re cooked to avoid rubberiness.
Remember, shrimp cook quickly, so don’t walk away! Keep an eye on them for delicious results.
How to Make Shrimp Guacamole Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Guacamole:
- 2 avocados
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or cotija cheese)
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting your ingredients ready and cooking the shrimp, and about 15 minutes to prepare the guacamole and assemble the bites. It’s a quick and tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Shrimp:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over the shrimp, making sure they are well-coated.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove them from the heat and set them aside.
3. Make the Guacamole:
In a separate bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until it reaches your desired consistency (smooth or chunky). Add the lime juice, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if you’re using it), and half of the fresh cilantro. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste it and add more salt and pepper if needed!
4. Assemble the Bites:
To put it all together, scoop a spoonful of guacamole onto each serving of the shrimp bites. Then, top each guacamole dollop with one cooked shrimp. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and the remaining cilantro over the top for added flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Shrimp Guacamole Bites immediately while they are fresh! Don’t forget to serve lime wedges on the side so everyone can drizzle some lime juice over their bites. Yum!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before seasoning, as excess moisture can prevent them from browning nicely in the skillet.
Can I Make the Guacamole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the guacamole in advance! To keep it from browning, store it in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before sealing the container. It should stay fresh in the fridge for about 1-2 days. Give it a quick stir before serving to fluff it up!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a substitute, cotija cheese works great for a similar salty flavor. You can also use diced avocado or even a vegan cheese alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp Guacamole Bites?
While these bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. For the shrimp, separate them from the guacamole to maintain freshness. To reheat the shrimp, just warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. The guacamole can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature!
