Taco night just got a gourmet glow-up. These Black Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos with Charred Corn Salsa are everything you want in a bite — rich, buttery shrimp laced with umami-packed black garlic, topped with a smoky, zesty corn salsa that bursts with brightness. All of it wrapped in warm corn tortillas for the kind of flavor that makes your tastebuds sing. Whether it’s Tuesday or just your turn to host, this recipe is a guaranteed win.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magic about the balance in this dish. The black garlic butter gives the shrimp a deep, almost caramelized richness. Meanwhile, the charred corn salsa brings the crunch, the sweetness, the lime-bright lift. And with tender grilled shrimp and warm tortillas, each taco feels like a little edible celebration. Plus, it all comes together quickly — ideal for a weeknight dinner or an easy entertaining option that still feels special.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp black garlic butter
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Black Garlic Butter: Make it by mashing roasted black garlic cloves into softened butter. If unavailable, use roasted garlic butter as a substitute.
- Corn: Fresh or frozen kernels work — just get them charred in a pan or grill for the smoky edge.
- Shrimp: Medium to large shrimp work best. Make sure they’re patted dry for better sear.
- Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas add that classic taco texture, but flour works too.
- Add-Ons: Crumbled cotija cheese, avocado slices, or hot sauce are all fair game.
Instructions
1. Prep the Grill
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season & Cook the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with 2 tablespoons of black garlic butter, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Make the Corn Salsa
In a hot, dry skillet or on the grill, char the corn kernels until slightly blackened. Transfer to a bowl and mix with red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat the Tortillas
In a skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of black garlic butter over medium heat. Warm the tortillas in the butter for about 1 minute per side, just until soft and golden.
5. Assemble the Tacos
Layer shrimp into each tortilla, then top with a generous spoonful of charred corn salsa. Serve immediately while hot and buttery!
Tips for Success
- Use Dry Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook fast — remove from heat as soon as they’re pink and curled.
- Char the Corn Well: A bit of blackening adds real depth to the salsa.
- Warm Tortillas Right: Heating them in black garlic butter makes them unforgettable.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these tacos with a chilled drink and some bold sides to complete the experience:
- Pair with This Beer Cheese Dip for a creamy, cheesy companion
- Add These Totchos to your taco night table
- Serve with This Crockpot Nacho Dip to satisfy every snacker
- Pair with These Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fiesta-style spread
- Round it all out with This Dorito Casserole for next-level comfort fusion
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Shrimp: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Corn Salsa: Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days — great on everything!
- Tortillas: Warm fresh before assembling leftovers to bring them back to life.
More Recipes You Will Love
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- These Totchos Are My Favorite Party Food Hack: Tater Tot Nachos for the Win
Final Thoughts
These Black Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos with Charred Corn Salsa are a flavor-packed upgrade to your usual taco night. They’re fast, easy, and gourmet-level impressive — the kind of dish that turns dinner into an event.
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