Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas: A Quick and Flavorful One-Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends, these Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas are the answer. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they’re also packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. With just one pan, fresh ingredients, and the right seasonings, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Best of all, the easy cleanup makes it ideal for those hectic days when you still want a home-cooked meal.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is how effortlessly it combines texture and flavor. For instance, the shrimp turn out juicy and tender, while the roasted bell peppers and onions add a sweet, smoky char. Together, they create the perfect filling for soft tortillas. Moreover, a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro elevate the flavors, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last.

In addition to being quick, this recipe is highly customizable to suit your taste. For example, you can adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne pepper or leaving it out altogether. Similarly, the toppings are completely up to you—guacamole, sour cream, or salsa all pair wonderfully. Because of its versatility, this dish can easily please both guests and picky eaters alike.

Furthermore, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can slice the vegetables and marinate the shrimp ahead of time, saving even more effort when it’s time to cook. Since everything roasts on a single sheet pan, it’s also a healthier option, as you use less oil compared to stovetop cooking.

In conclusion, these Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas are a fuss-free, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

INGREDIENTS
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), thinly sliced
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lime (plus wedges for garnish)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
8 small flour tortillas
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Make the spice mixture: In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Season the vegetables: Place sliced bell peppers and red onion on the sheet pan. Drizzle with half of the spice mixture and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Spread the vegetables out in an even layer.
4. Marinate the shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with the remaining spice mixture and the juice of 1 lime. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly, ensuring the flavors are well distributed. Set the shrimp aside to marinate while the vegetables begin roasting.
5. Roast the vegetables: Place the sheet pan with seasoned vegetables in the oven. Roast for 10 min until they begin to soften and caramelize lightly.
6. Add the shrimp: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and arrange the shrimp evenly over the vegetables. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Warm the tortillas: During the last 5 min of roasting, wrap the tortillas tightly in parchment paper, place them on a baking tray, and add them to the oven. This will gently warm them while keeping them soft. Alternatively, heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15–20 seconds per side or wrap them in a damp kitchen towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds until warm.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle the shrimp and vegetables with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with warmed tortillas, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or shredded cheese, for a vibrant and customizable meal.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe:

• Don’t skip preheating the oven: For perfectly roasted vegetables and evenly cooked shrimp, always preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures the vegetables char lightly while staying tender, and the shrimp cook quickly without overcooking.
• Use fresh lime juice for vibrant flavor: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the fajitas’ flavor, balancing the spices and adding a bright, zesty kick. It’s worth the extra step to avoid bottled juice for the best results.
• Marinate shrimp for bold flavor: Letting the shrimp sit in the spice mixture for at least 10 minutes before roasting allows the flavors to infuse thoroughly. This simple step makes each bite more delicious and perfectly seasoned.