Name: Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 to 2 limes, cut into wedges

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Fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex dish that is both flavorful and versatile, offering a wonderful combination of tender shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and a mix of savory seasonings. Sheet pan recipes have become increasingly popular for their simplicity and ability to create a delicious, hassle-free meal. Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas are no exception. With vibrant bell peppers, red onions, and perfectly seasoned shrimp, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is the perfect solution. It eliminates the need for multiple cooking steps, as everything cooks together on a single sheet pan. The shrimp is seasoned with fajita seasoning and roasted alongside the vegetables, resulting in a dish that’s both hearty and light. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a busy weeknight meal or a weekend treat. With the added freshness of lime wedges and the ease of serving, Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas offer a stress-free way to enjoy a flavorful, Mexican-inspired dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a perfect balance of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and minimal effort. The shrimp cooks quickly, soaking in the fajita seasoning, while the bell peppers and onions soften and caramelize, creating a mouthwatering dish with lots of texture. The best part is the versatility; you can serve the fajitas in tortillas, over rice, or alongside a refreshing salad. It’s a great meal to serve to a crowd, as it requires no complicated steps. Plus, the fact that it all cooks together on a single sheet pan means fewer dishes to clean!

The fajita seasoning is customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level and flavor profile to suit your preferences. The fresh squeeze of lime at the end enhances the dish with a zesty kick. With the balance of protein, vegetables, and seasoning, Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Fajita seasoning
Shrimp
Olive oil (divided)
Yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
Green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
Red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
Red onion (thinly sliced)
Limes (cut into wedges)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cauliflower.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the bell peppers or increase the amount of chili powder in the fajita seasoning for a spicier dish.
Chicken Fajitas: Swap the shrimp for chicken breast or thighs for a heartier version.
Pineapple Fajitas: For a sweet and savory twist, add pineapple slices or chunks to the sheet pan during cooking.
Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it is fully heated before placing your sheet pan inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the bell peppers and red onion into thin strips. Arrange them evenly on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with one tablespoon of olive oil and the fajita seasoning. Ensure the shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp to the Sheet Pan

Place the seasoned shrimp on the baking sheet with the vegetables, spreading them out evenly.

Step 5: Roast the Fajitas

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the shrimp and vegetables. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lime wedges over the fajitas. Serve with tortillas, rice, or your preferred side.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Sheet Pan: Make sure to spread the shrimp and vegetables out evenly to ensure they cook properly and get a slight caramelization.
Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and veggies in advance by slicing them the night before and storing them in the fridge.
Use a Heavy Sheet Pan: A sturdy sheet pan helps ensure even heat distribution, giving the vegetables and shrimp a nice char.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of fajita seasoning or opt for a mild version of the seasoning.

How to Serve

Serve your Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas in soft tortillas for a traditional presentation or over a bed of rice for a more substantial meal. You can also top them with fresh avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, or cilantro for added flavor and garnish. For a lighter option, serve the fajitas in a salad bowl with greens and a lime vinaigrette dressing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the shrimp and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat to preserve their texture.

Freezing

If you have a lot of leftovers or want to prep the dish ahead of time, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and vegetables. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the fajitas in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the vegetables may lose some of their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without fajita seasoning?

Yes, you can create your own seasoning mix using chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the shrimp with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.

4. How do I prevent the shrimp from getting overcooked?

Monitor the shrimp closely, as they cook very quickly. Remove them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

5. Can I use other vegetables besides bell peppers and onions?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other veggies such as mushrooms, tomatoes, or even sweet potatoes.

6. How spicy is the fajita seasoning?

The spice level of fajita seasoning can vary depending on the brand. If you’re sensitive to spice, look for a mild version or adjust the amount to your preference.

7. Can I cook the shrimp on the stovetop instead of the oven?

Yes, you can sauté the shrimp and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat if you prefer.

8. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice the vegetables and season the shrimp a few hours before cooking. Simply store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

9. Can I add cheese to the fajitas?

Yes, adding shredded cheese can be a delicious addition, especially if you’re serving the fajitas in tortillas.

10. What type of tortillas should I use?

Flour tortillas are the most common option for fajitas, but corn tortillas are also great for a gluten-free alternative.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that brings together tender shrimp, caramelized vegetables, and bold fajita seasoning. With minimal prep and a single sheet pan to clean, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you prefer to serve it in tortillas, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad, these fajitas are a versatile option for any meal. With tips for making the recipe your own and suggestions for storing leftovers, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.