Shrimp guacamole bites are a zesty, crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy guacamole with juicy shrimp for a flavor-packed, bite-sized treat. These little morsels are perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you want a refreshing and satisfying snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp guacamole bites are easy to assemble, fresh, and full of bold flavors. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, while a crispy base adds just the right crunch. They’re ideal for entertaining because they look fancy but are deceptively simple to make. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and can be made low-carb depending on the base you choose.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-off)
- Ripe avocados
- Lime juice
- Red onion (finely chopped)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Cherry tomatoes or Roma tomatoes (diced)
- Jalapeño (optional, finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper
- Tortilla chips, cucumber slices, or mini bell pepper halves (as base)
- Olive oil (for cooking shrimp if using raw)
- Optional toppings: chili flakes, cotija cheese, or a lime wedge
directions
- If using raw shrimp, heat a skillet with olive oil and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Let cool.
- In a bowl, mash avocados with lime juice, red onion, cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeño (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon a dollop of guacamole onto each tortilla chip, cucumber slice, or bell pepper half.
- Place one shrimp on top of each guacamole base.
- Garnish with optional toppings like chili flakes, cheese, or extra cilantro.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 bites.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time (if cooking shrimp): 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add hot sauce or extra jalapeño to the guacamole or sprinkle chili powder over the shrimp.
- Grilled shrimp: Grill shrimp for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Fruit twist: Add mango or pineapple chunks to the guacamole for a tropical flair.
- Low-carb option: Use cucumber slices or bell pepper halves instead of tortilla chips.
- Mini tacos: Use small tortilla rounds and fold for a bite-sized taco version.
storage/reheating
These bites are best enjoyed fresh, as guacamole tends to brown quickly and chips can become soggy.
If needed, prepare components separately:
- Store guacamole in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent browning (up to 1 day).
- Keep shrimp refrigerated in a sealed container (up to 2 days).
- Assemble just before serving. Reheating is not necessary for cooked or chilled shrimp.
FAQs
Can I make shrimp guacamole bites ahead of time?
You can prep the guacamole and shrimp ahead, but assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What shrimp size works best?
Medium-sized shrimp work well—small enough for bites but big enough to be satisfying.
Can I use store-bought guacamole?
Yes, but homemade gives better flavor and freshness. Add a squeeze of lime to enhance store-bought options.
Are these bites spicy?
They can be! Adjust the heat by including or omitting jalapeño and chili flakes.
What’s a good base if I don’t want to use chips?
Cucumber slices, endive leaves, or mini bell pepper halves are great low-carb, crunchy options.
How long do they last once assembled?
They’re best eaten within an hour of assembly to keep the base crisp and the guacamole fresh.
Can I serve these cold?
Yes, they’re meant to be served cold or at room temperature—no heating required.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw, rinse, and cook (if not pre-cooked) before using.
What drinks pair well with shrimp guacamole bites?
Try margaritas, light beer, white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or sparkling water with lime.
How do I prevent the guacamole from browning?
Use plenty of lime juice and press plastic wrap directly onto the guac’s surface if storing.
Conclusion
Shrimp guacamole bites are a perfect party appetizer—fresh, flavorful, and fun to eat. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether for casual snacking or festive gatherings, these bites will always be a hit.
Print
Shrimp Guacamole Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assemble
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Shrimp guacamole bites are a zesty, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy guacamole topped with seasoned shrimp on crisp tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 24 tortilla chips or mini tostada shells
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the cooked shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mash the avocados and mix with lime juice, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Season with salt to taste.
- Place a spoonful of guacamole on each tortilla chip or tostada shell.
- Top each with one seasoned shrimp.
- Garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make guacamole just before serving to prevent browning.
- Use store-bought guacamole to save time.
- Shrimp can be grilled or sautéed for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg