If you are craving something vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe is the perfect choice for your next meal. Combining tender, spiced shrimp with fluffy cilantro-lime rice, creamy avocado, and colorful veggies, it’s a mouthwatering dish that brings the best of the burrito experience into a bowl form. Every bite bursts with texture and zest, making it a satisfying yet light meal that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe lies in its straightforward, high-quality ingredients that balance texture and taste effortlessly. Each element plays a role—whether it’s the smoky spices on the shrimp, the bright lime in the rice, or the creamy avocado adding richness.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, quick to cook and wonderfully succulent when seasoned well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the shrimp and add richness without overpowering the spices.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adds a mild heat and depth to the shrimp seasoning.
- 1 tsp cumin: Brings earthiness that complements the chili powder perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the overall profile.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds savory notes that tie all the spices together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Offers freshness and bright acidity, lifting the shrimp flavors.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base for the bowl—fluffy and neutral to soak up flavors.
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth: For cooking the rice, adding either neutrality or an extra flavor boost.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used in cooking the rice for a silky texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: In rice cooking, to flavor the grains perfectly.
- Juice of 1 lime: Mixed into the rice with chopped cilantro for a fresh lift.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Infuses the rice with bright herbal notes.
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides protein, fiber, and a creamy texture contrast.
- 1 cup corn kernels: Adds sweetness and crunch—great fresh, frozen, or canned.
- 1 avocado, sliced: The creamy, buttery component that rounds out the flavors.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a mild sharpness and crisp texture.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts that bring acidity and color.
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional): Adds a salty, creamy touch, especially for cheese lovers.
- Lime wedges (for serving): Let everyone add that zesty kick as they please.
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt: Forms the base of the creamy sauce with a tangy edge.
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise: Enhances richness and smoothness in the sauce.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Brightens up the sauce flavor, tying it back to the whole dish.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds a subtle heat to the sauce, echoing the shrimp seasoning.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasons the sauce perfectly.
How to Make Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Rice
Start by rinsing your rice under cold water until it runs clear—this prevents it from getting gummy. Cook the rice using either water or vegetable broth with a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil for about 18-20 minutes until tender. Fluff it with a fork and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. This fragrant rice is the flavorful foundation of your Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe, so getting it just right is key.
Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the peeled shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred on the edges. Finish by adding fresh lime juice for that extra pop of brightness that ties into every element of the dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Veggies and Beans
While the shrimp cooks, rinse and drain black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium if canned. If you’re using fresh or frozen corn, make sure it’s ready to go, and slice the avocado, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. These fresh toppings add wonderful texture, color, and nutritional richness to your bowl.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Lime Sauce
Whisk together sour cream or Greek yogurt with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This cooling sauce balances the spices and adds a luscious creaminess that gently coats your ingredients when drizzled over the bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
To build your Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe, start with a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice, then layer on the black beans and corn, followed by your perfectly cooked shrimp. Top with avocado slices, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of queso fresco or cheese if you like. Finish with a drizzle of lime sauce and a wedge of lime on the side for that final squeeze of zing.
How to Serve Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this shrimp burrito bowl is all in the garnishes. Fresh cilantro leaves, a sprinkle of queso fresco, or even a handful of crunchy tortilla strips add extra layers of flavor and texture. Lime wedges are essential for guests to add as much zest as they want, making every bite customizable and exciting.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad or charred street corn to keep things fresh and vibrant. You could also offer warm corn tortillas so everyone can scoop up any leftovers, perfect for an interactive meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe in colorful bowls or glass jars for an eye-catching presentation. Layering the ingredients in clear containers beforehand makes it perfect for meal prep or picnics. For a fun twist, set up a build-your-own burrito bowl bar with all the fixings so friends and family can customize their bowls just the way they like them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp burrito bowl components store beautifully in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp and avocado slices separate from other ingredients to maintain texture and freshness.
Freezing
While the shrimp and rice can be frozen, fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and lime juice do not freeze well. Freeze cooked shrimp and rice in individual portions to make future meals quick and easy. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat rice and shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Avoid reheating avocado and fresh vegetables; instead, add them fresh when serving to keep the bowl vibrant and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking and pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely and absorb the seasoning well. Frozen shrimp make this recipe even more convenient.
What can I substitute for queso fresco?
If queso fresco isn’t available, feta cheese or cotija are excellent alternatives that provide a similar salty, crumbly texture to enhance the bowl.
Is this Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those avoiding gluten. Just make sure any optional additions like sauces or seasonings are checked for hidden gluten.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the shrimp for grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms, and increase the beans for extra protein. The spices and fresh toppings still shine brilliantly.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or including a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick if you like things hotter.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals whenever I want something flavorful, healthy, and filling without tons of fuss. It’s colorful, balanced, and absolutely satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do!
Print
Shrimp Burrito Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Shrimp Burrito Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful meal perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Packed with seasoned shrimp, fluffy lime-cilantro rice, black beans, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado, it offers a balanced blend of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. The zesty lime and smoky spices bring a delicious Mexican-inspired twist, making it a satisfying and colorful bowl that’s easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Bowl Toppings and Garnishes
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (canned or cooked)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Dressing/Sauce
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water or vegetable broth, olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a zesty finish.
- Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Burrito Bowls: Divide the lime cilantro rice evenly among four bowls. Top each with black beans, corn kernels, cooked shrimp, avocado slices, sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cheese if using. Drizzle the prepared dressing over each bowl and garnish with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain option.
- For spice lovers, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or dressing.
- If fresh corn is not available, frozen or canned corn will work well—just be sure to drain any excess liquid.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- This recipe can be easily adapted to a vegetarian version by substituting shrimp with grilled tofu or roasted vegetables.
