When the sun dips below the horizon and the aroma of something delicious fills the air, it’s the perfect prompt to get cooking. I was hunting for a satisfying weeknight meal that would satisfy my cravings without straying into fast-food territory. That’s when inspiration struck: Loaded Old Bay Shrimp Burritos! These aren’t just any burritos; they’re a flavor explosion wrapped in a soft tortilla, combining seasoned shrimp, hearty black beans, and a zesty homemade aioli that will make every bite something to savor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity you can whip it up in under an hour! With a blend of spices that will transport you to a coastal getaway, and fresh ingredients that sing of summer, these burritos are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Perfect for a quick dinner or impressing guests, this dish is bound to become a repeat favorite. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure!
Why are Old Bay Shrimp Burritos a must-try?
Bold flavors: Each bite bursts with the warm, delightful taste of Old Bay seasoning that perfectly complements the shrimp.
Quick preparation: In under an hour, dinner is served, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your tastes—think grilled chicken or extra veggies!
Crowd-pleaser: Serve these at your next gathering, and watch them disappear as guests rave about the unique flavor.
Easy clean-up: One-pot and minimal mess means more time enjoying your tasty creation!
Comfort food: These burritos are the ultimate hearty meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Old Bay Shrimp Burritos Ingredients
For the Aioli
- Mayonnaise – Creamy base for the aioli; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Sriracha – Adds heat to the aioli; adjust to taste or replace with a milder sauce.
- Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens the aioli flavor; can be replaced with lemon juice.
- Old Bay Seasoning – Signature spice blend for the shrimp; use Cajun seasoning if unavailable.
- Kosher Salt (optional) – Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste.
For the Shrimp Filling
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for cooking vegetables; any neutral oil can work.
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and flavor; substitute with shallots if desired.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and color; red or yellow bell peppers can be used.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; fresh minced garlic is best.
- Small Shrimp – Main protein, peeled and deveined; can substitute with chicken or tofu.
- Ground Cumin – Adds warmth to the shrimp seasoning; omit if sensitive to spice.
- Paprika – Provides color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can add extra depth.
- Freshly Ground Pepper – Enhances seasoning.
For Assembling the Burritos
- Large Flour Tortillas – Wrap for the burrito; whole wheat or corn tortillas are alternatives.
- Cooked Long-Grain White Rice – Adds bulk to the burrito; quinoa or cauliflower rice can be lower-carb substitutes.
- Cooked Black Beans – Provides protein and fiber; chickpeas can be used as a substitute.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese – Adds richness; use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- Shredded Lettuce – Fresh topping for crunch; any leafy greens like spinach can be swapped.
- Pico de Gallo – Fresh salsa that adds zest; store-bought salsa can be an easy alternative.
- Avocado – Creamy texture for balance; substitute with guacamole or omit if preferred.
- Chopped Chives – Garnish for freshness; scallions can also be used.
How to Make Old Bay Shrimp Burritos
- Prepare the Aioli: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, fresh lime juice, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Stir until well combined and adjust seasoning to your taste. You want it zesty!
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding extra-virgin olive oil. Toss in the yellow onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet along with ground cumin, paprika, freshly ground pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble Burritos: Warm the flour tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave. On each tortilla, layer cooked rice, black beans, the shrimp mixture, shredded cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo, avocado, and a drizzle of your homemade aioli. Roll tightly to enclose the filling.
- Serve: Plate the burritos and garnish with chopped chives. Serve with extra aioli on the side for dipping or drizzling!
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lime over the top for extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Old Bay Shrimp Burritos?
Create a full meal that tantalizes your taste buds and satisfies your cravings.
- Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping into the zesty aioli, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
- Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the spices in the burritos and adds a cool touch.
- Black Bean and Corn Salsa: The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the seasoned shrimp, enhancing every bite.
- Classic Margaritas: The citrusy flavors of a margarita complement the burritos, making for the perfect pairing for a casual night in.
- Spicy Roasted Vegetables: Roasting enhances the flavors of seasonal veggies, providing a warm contrast that enriches the meal’s profile.
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole complements the burritos while adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Pineapple Salsa: The tropical sweetness of pineapple salsa contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp for a delightful explosion of flavors.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp white wine enhances the vibrant taste of the shrimp while balancing the warmth of Old Bay seasoning.
- Churros: Finish your meal with some cinnamon-sugar churros for a sweet, indulgent treat that everyone will love.
Old Bay Shrimp Burrito Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that invite personalization and tantalize the taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute shredded Mexican cheese with plant-based cheese for a creamy touch that keeps it vegan-friendly.
- Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or chopped serrano peppers to the shrimp for an extra kick! They’ll elevate the flavor profile with a fiery burst.
- Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, swap shrimp for a medley of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. It’s a colorful and satisfying alternative!
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, earthier flavor. It’ll give your burritos an irresistible BBQ twist.
- Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or firm tofu, seasoned to perfection for a hearty, protein-rich filling. Both are delicious options!
- Grain Choices: Instead of regular rice, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nutritious, low-carb alternative. It’ll add a unique texture!
- Herbed Aioli: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro into the aioli for a refreshing and aromatic lift that brightens every bite.
- Tortilla Varieties: Experiment with different tortilla types—try whole wheat, spinach, or even gluten-free options to cater to your preferences!
These variations are sure to keep mealtime exciting and filled with delicious possibilities!
How to Store and Freeze Old Bay Shrimp Burritos
- Room Temperature: Leftover burritos can be safely kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. However, for best quality, refrigerate them promptly.
- Fridge: Store wrapped burritos in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps retain their flavor and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap burritos tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight (if frozen) and warm in an oven or skillet until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. This will help keep your Old Bay shrimp burritos deliciously tasty!
Expert Tips for Old Bay Shrimp Burritos
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are just cooked until they’re pink and opaque; overcooking can toughen them, leading to a disappointing texture.
- Warm Your Tortillas: Always warm your tortillas before filling to prevent tearing. A slightly warmed tortilla is much more pliable for wrapping up those delicious Old Bay shrimp burritos.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preference—try adding spicy jalapeños or replacing shrimp with grilled chicken for a different twist.
- Mix Up the Aioli: Elevate your aioli by experimenting with additional flavors, like garlic or herbs. Just remember to taste as you go for the best result!
- Prep Ahead: For an even quicker meal, chop your vegetables and marinate the shrimp in advance. This makes assembling your Old Bay shrimp burritos a breeze!
Make Ahead Options
These Old Bay Shrimp Burritos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the aioli, sautéed vegetables, and cooked shrimp filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. To maintain the quality, make sure to store the aioli separately to prevent it from diluting the flavors of the filling. When it’s time to enjoy your burritos, warm the tortillas and assemble them with prepped rice, black beans, shredded cheese, and any fresh toppings like lettuce or pico de gallo. Just roll them up tightly, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Old Bay Shrimp Burritos Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Old Bay Shrimp Burritos?
Absolutely! Using small shrimp peeled and deveined works best for these burritos, as they cook quickly and evenly. If you can’t find small shrimp, feel free to substitute larger shrimp or even diced chicken or tofu for a delightful twist on this recipe!
How should I store leftover Old Bay Shrimp Burritos?
Leftover burritos can be wrapped in foil or placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best taste and texture, make sure they are tightly wrapped and kept away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors.
Can I freeze Old Bay Shrimp Burritos?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do so, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for easy reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Old Bay Shrimp Burritos?
To reheat, remove the burrito from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15 minutes or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
How do I customize the ingredients in my Old Bay Shrimp Burritos?
Very! Feel free to swap out ingredients according to your taste preferences. For example, try using a mix of sautéed vegetables instead of shrimp for a veggie version. You can also add heat with sliced jalapeños or adjust the spices based on your family’s palate — the more the merrier!
Are Old Bay Shrimp Burritos suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Unfortunately, these burritos are not safe for those with shellfish allergies due to the use of shrimp. However, you can easily adapt the recipe by replacing the shrimp with grilled chicken, beef, or plant-based protein like mushrooms or tofu to create a delicious alternative!
Old Bay Shrimp Burritos: Your New Favorite Quick Dinner!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Aioli: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, fresh lime juice, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Stir until well combined and adjust seasoning to your taste. You want it zesty!
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding extra-virgin olive oil. Toss in the yellow onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet along with ground cumin, paprika, freshly ground pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble Burritos: Warm the flour tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave. On each tortilla, layer cooked rice, black beans, the shrimp mixture, shredded cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo, avocado, and a drizzle of your homemade aioli. Roll tightly to enclose the filling.
- Serve: Plate the burritos and garnish with chopped chives. Serve with extra aioli on the side for dipping or drizzling!