Shrimp Tostadas

Shrimp Tostadas: A Quick & Easy Recipe for Parties

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about family gatherings, it’s that good food has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a laid-back weekend get-together or a full-on fiesta, having a recipe that’s both simple and a total crowd-pleaser is key. That’s where these shrimp tostadas come in. They’re fresh, flavorful, and most importantly quick and easy to make.

Shrimp tostadas are one of those dishes that look fancy but require very little effort, which is exactly what you need when hosting. You get crispy tostada shells, creamy avocado mash, perfectly seasoned shrimp, and a drizzle of sour cream to tie everything together. Every bite is crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy.

Shrimp Tostadas

If you’ve got 25 minutes, you’ve got yourself a winning appetizer, light snack, or casual dinner. So, let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Shrimp Tostadas

  • Super quick to make – Just 10 minutes to cook the shrimp and another 15 to prep everything else.
  • Full of fresh flavors – Lime, cilantro, avocado, and shrimp are a dream team.
  • Perfect for parties – Everyone loves a handheld, crunchy bite!
  • Customizable – Add more heat, swap toppings, or make them dairy-free.

Before you start, make sure you have everything on hand: (serves 4)

Here’s What You’ll Need – For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s What You’ll Need – For Avocado Mash

  • 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt, to taste

Here’s What You’ll Need – For assembling

  • 8 tostada shells
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Shrimp cook fast, so this part is quick and easy!

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The spices give the shrimp a warm, smoky flavor without being overpowering.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Tip: Shrimp can overcook fast, so keep an eye on them. Once they curl into a C-shape and turn pink, they’re done!

Step 2: Make the Avocado Mash

This creamy avocado mash is like a quick guacamole, and it adds so much flavor to the tostadas.

  1. In a bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until mostly smooth (a little texture is good!).
  2. Add lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Tip: If you love extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in for an extra kick!

Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas

Now for the fun part putting everything together!

  1. Lay out the tostada shells on a serving platter.
  2. Spread a generous layer of avocado mash on each tostada.
  3. Top with the cooked shrimp, followed by the diced tomato.
  4. Drizzle with sour cream for a creamy finish.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. The fresh lime juice takes the flavors to the next level!

Tip: If serving these at a party, set up a DIY tostada bar so guests can build their own!

making shrimp tostadas

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about shrimp tostadas is how easy they are to customize!

  • Spicier: Add more jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • Cheesier: Sprinkle on some crumbled cotija cheese.
  • Dairy-free: Skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Extra crunch: Add shredded lettuce or thinly sliced radishes.

What to Serve with Shrimp Tostadas

These tostadas are fantastic on their own, but if you want to round out your meal, here are a few great pairings:

🌮 Mexican Street Corn – A creamy, cheesy side that pairs perfectly.
🥑 Mango Salsa – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
🍹 Margaritas or Agua Fresca – Because a refreshing drink is always a good idea!

plates of shrimp tostadas

Storing & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which doesn’t happen often in my house!), here’s how to store them:

  • Shrimp: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.
  • Avocado Mash: Best eaten fresh, but you can store it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
  • Tostada Shells: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to stay crispy.

Avoid storing fully assembled tostadas, as they’ll get soggy!

Shrimp tostadas are one of those meals that feel special but are incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at a party, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

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