Name: Quick & Spicy Mexican Diablo Shrimp for Epic Flavor Boost
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Roma Tomatoes (Base of the sauce for acidity and sweetness; use fresh for the best flavor.); 3 whole Dried Guajillo Chiles (Adds depth and mild heat; no direct substitute.); 2 whole Dried Chile de Arbol (Provides an extra kick; reduce quantity for milder flavor.); 2 cups Water (Used for simmering chiles and tomatoes.); 1 whole Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce (Optional, intensifies flavor and spice.); 1.5 lbs Raw Shrimp (Large shrimp (31/35 count) recommended.); 2 tbsp Lime or Lemon Juice (Balances spices with acidity, use fresh juice.); 1 tsp Salt (Essential seasoning.); 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper (Essential seasoning.); 2 tbsp Butter (For sautéing shrimp.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (For sautéing shrimp, substitute for butter.); 0.5 medium Onion (Chopped.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 0.25 cup Chopped Cilantro or Parsley (For garnish.); 1 whole Lime or Lemon Wedges (Serve to brighten flavors.); 0.5 cup Sour Cream (Optional cooling element.); 2 cups Rice (Suggested accompaniments.); 8 whole Corn Tortillas (Suggested accompaniments.)

As I watched the vibrant colors dance in the pan, I couldn’t help but feel transported to a sun-soaked market in Mexico, where the air is thick with the aroma of chiles and spices. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Mexican Diablo Shrimp, or Camarones a la Diabla. This dish captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine, bringing a fiery kick to your dinner table in just 30 minutes! Not only is it quick and easy to whip up, but it’s also a glorious crowd-pleaser that promises to impress both family and friends. With succulent shrimp enveloped in a tantalizing, spicy tomato-chile sauce, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds. So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into this deliciously bold recipe!

Why is This Shrimp Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
Robust Flavors: The blend of guajillo and chile de arbol delivers a fiery kick that will thrill spice lovers.
Authentic Experience: Enjoy a taste of Mexico right at home with a recipe that stays true to traditional methods.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it hot over rice or tuck it into warm corn tortillas for fantastic tacos, just like with my Mexican Lasagna Twist or Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes!

Mexican Diablo Shrimp Ingredients

• For the perfect fiery sauce and tender shrimp, gather these ingredients!

Roma Tomatoes – Base of the sauce for acidity and sweetness; use fresh for the best flavor.
Dried Guajillo Chiles – Adds depth and mild heat; no direct substitute; for less spice, consider using fewer chiles.
Dried Chile de Arbol – Provides an extra kick; reduce quantity for a milder flavor.
Water – Used for simmering chiles and tomatoes; regulates sauce consistency.
Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce (optional) – Intensifies flavor and spice; omit for less heat.
Raw Shrimp (1.5 lbs) – Main protein; large shrimp (31/35 count) recommended; can substitute with frozen shrimp, thawed.
Lime or Lemon Juice – Balances spices with acidity; use fresh juice for best results.
Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for overall flavor enhancement.
Butter and Olive Oil – For sautéing shrimp and developing flavor; olive oil is a good substitute for butter.
Onion (½ medium, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; can use brown, yellow, or white onions.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh is best.
Chopped Cilantro or Parsley – For garnish, adds freshness and color.
Lime or Lemon Wedges – Serve with the dish to brighten flavors.
Sour Cream – Optional cooling element to temper spiciness.
Rice and Corn Tortillas – Suggested accompaniments for serving; adds comfort to the meal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Diablo Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Sauce
In a saucepan, combine diced Roma tomatoes, dried guajillo chiles, and enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the temperature and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes and chiles are softened. The tomatoes should become tender and mushy, creating the base for our zesty sauce.

Step 2: Blend Sauce
Transfer the softened tomato and chile mixture to a blender. Blend on high until it reaches a smooth consistency, adjusting thickness by adding reserved cooking water if needed. The blended sauce should be vibrant and glossy, showcasing the rich red color that indicates the flavor-packed sauce ready for our Mexican Diablo Shrimp.

Step 3: Prep Shrimp
While the sauce blends, take the raw shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with fresh lime juice, salt, and ground black pepper. Allow the shrimp to marinate briefly while you sauté aromatics, enhancing their flavor before they meet the fiery sauce.

Step 4: Sauté Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt two tablespoons of butter, adding an equal amount of olive oil to create a flavorful base. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for about 1 minute per side, just until they turn slightly translucent. Quickly transfer the shrimp to a plate, ensuring they remain juicy and don’t overcook.

Step 5: Cook Aromatics
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the chopped onion, cooking for approximately 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic flavor into the air. This mixture will provide the rich foundation for the spicy sauce.

Step 6: Combine
Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet containing the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring to combine and allow to simmer for 2 minutes. As the sauce bubbles, add the sautéed shrimp back to the pan, cooking until the shrimp are fully opaque and cooked through, about 2 more minutes. The shrimp should be tender and well-coated in the bold sauce.

Step 7: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish your Mexican Diablo Shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately with wedges of lime on the side while the dish is hot. Providing a side of rice or warm corn tortillas will complete this delightful and spicy culinary experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Camarones a la Diabla are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the sauce up to 4 days in advance. Simply cook the sauce as instructed, let it cool, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can also season the shrimp with lime juice, salt, and pepper and store it separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply sauté the shrimp until opaque, combine it with the reheated sauce in the skillet, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time, just as flavorful as if you made it fresh!

Mexican Diablo Shrimp Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and create a version that speaks to your taste buds!

Vegetable Boost: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers while sautéing onions to introduce more flavor and texture.
Seafood Medley: Combine shrimp with scallops or crab for a delightful seafood feast, enhancing the richness of the dish.
Spicy Option: Increase the quantity of chile de arbol or add a dash of cayenne pepper for those who crave a bolder kick.
Herb Twist: Use fresh basil instead of cilantro for a unique flavor profile that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to create a luscious, creamy sauce that mellows the spice.
Extra Zest: Zest a lime or lemon into the sauce before serving for added brightness and a refreshing aroma.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the sauce to deepen the flavor, similar to that found in Honey Blackened Shrimp.
Chili Garlic Sauce: Swap out the dried chiles for a few tablespoons of chili garlic sauce for an easy, quick route to heat.

Customizing this dish helps you create your signature flavor—just like how I love to add a little twist to my beloved Birria Tacos. Enjoy your culinary journey!

What to Serve with Spicy Camarones a la Diabla

Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that balance and complement this zesty shrimp dish.

Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the fiery sauce, providing a comforting base for your shrimp.
Corn Tortillas: Warm tortillas turn this dish into a delicious taco feast, perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices add a refreshing contrast to the heat of the shrimp, making every bite delightful.
Grilled Pineapple: The sweetness of grilled pineapple creates a wonderful juxtaposition to the spices, enhancing the overall experience.
Chilled Cucumber Salsa: A cooling side of cucumber, lime, and cilantro balances the dish’s spicy kick while adding a fresh, crunchy element.
Margaritas: Sipping on a classic margarita complements the bold flavors, creating a festive atmosphere for your meal.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty twist on rice infused with fresh lime and cilantro, perfect for brightening each mouthful of shrimp.
Sour Cream Dip: A dollop of sour cream can temper the heat, offering a cooling effect against the spicy shrimp.
Fruit Sorbet: End your meal with a sorbet to cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing finish after the robust flavors of the shrimp.

Storage Tips for Mexican Diablo Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Mexican Diablo Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, ensuring the shrimp do not overcook and become tough.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, mixing it with the shrimp just before serving.

Expert Tips for Mexican Diablo Shrimp

Adjust Spiciness: Start with fewer chile de arbol if you’re sensitive to heat; you can always add more for a bolder flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Roma tomatoes and lime juice elevate the taste, making your spicy Mexican Diablo Shrimp truly shine.
Sauté Quickly: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be pink and slightly translucent. Remove them from heat promptly for the best texture.
Flavor Boost: A splash of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce adds a smoky dimension; use it to enhance the dish but omit it if you prefer less heat.
Perfect Pairings: Serving this dish with rice or warm corn tortillas balances the heat wonderfully while adding a comforting touch.

Mexican Diablo Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe Roma tomatoes for the sauce?
Absolutely! Look for Roma tomatoes that are firm with vibrant red skin, free from dark spots or blemishes. A slight give when gently squeezed indicates ripeness. Fresh tomatoes are essential as they provide the necessary acidity and sweetness that elevate the sauce.

How should I store leftovers of the Mexican Diablo Shrimp?
To keep your dish fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, ensuring the shrimp remain tender and avoid overcooking.

Can I freeze the Mexican Diablo Shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then pour it into a freezer-safe container. You can store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the sauce appears too thick.

What if my sauce is too spicy?
Very! If you find the sauce too spicy for your taste, you can balance it out by adding more diced tomatoes or some cream to mellow the heat. Start by incorporating a bit of tomato at a time and taste as you go. This way, you can adjust according to your preference without losing the essence of the dish.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Mexican Diablo Shrimp is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you’re serving it to guests with allergies, always check that the shrimp and other ingredients do not contain allergens. For pet safety, avoid giving any shrimp or spicy foods to dogs or cats, as they may not digest them well.

How can I store and reheat leftover shrimp?
To prevent leftover shrimp from becoming tough, place them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume them within 1-2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist. Stir occasionally until they are warmed through, taking care to avoid overcooking.