This Shrimp Con Queso is the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and bold Tex Mex flavors. Juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp are paired with sautéed peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all smothered in a luscious homemade queso sauce. The best part? It all comes together in just one pan in 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner!
Whether you’re serving this dish with warm tortillas, over cauliflower rice for a low carb option, or just scooping it up with tortilla chips, it’s guaranteed to impress. The balance of spice, creamy cheese, and succulent shrimp will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it for your next family meal or party, and watch it disappear in no time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Shrimp Fajitas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups bell peppers, mixed colors, sliced
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 pound thawed shrimp, deveined and shelled
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
Queso Sauce
- ¼ cup heavy cream (plus more for thinning, if needed)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- ½ cup white American cheese
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until tender.
- Add shrimp and taco seasoning, tossing to coat evenly. Sear shrimp for 2-3 minutes until cooked through, then remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually add shredded cheese in small increments (½ cup at a time), stirring continuously until melted and incorporated. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more heavy cream or milk as needed.
- Return shrimp and veggies to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the queso sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado, if desired.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 359 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Shrimp Con Queso: A Creamy and Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight
Shrimp Con Queso is the perfect marriage of two beloved culinary elements: juicy, succulent shrimp and a rich, cheesy queso sauce. This dish takes the best of Tex Mex flavors and transforms them into a quick, one pan meal that is packed with bold spices, creamy textures, and irresistible flavors.
Perfect for a family dinner, a special gathering, or even a casual weeknight meal, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. Whether served with warm tortillas, rice, or crunchy tortilla chips, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Shrimp Con Queso special, how it fits into different diets, serving suggestions, and tips to make it even better.
What Makes Shrimp Con Queso Special?
Shrimp Con Queso stands out for its balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp are lightly seasoned and seared until they’re perfectly tender and juicy, while the homemade queso sauce adds a creamy, cheesy richness that makes every bite indulgent.
Unlike traditional queso dips, which are often just melted cheese and a few spices, this recipe takes things to the next level by incorporating sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. These vegetables add depth, slight sweetness, and a hint of smokiness to the dish, making it both hearty and satisfying.
The use of pepper jack cheese and white American cheese ensures the queso sauce is smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy. Pepper jack cheese brings a mild heat, while white American cheese creates that signature creamy texture that clings perfectly to shrimp and veggies. The addition of taco seasoning ties everything together with warm, earthy flavors.
Is Shrimp Con Queso Keto-Friendly?
Yes! Shrimp Con Queso is an excellent option for those following a low carb or keto lifestyle. Unlike traditional queso based dishes that may be served with carb heavy sides like rice or tortillas, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates.
Each serving contains only about 6 grams of carbs, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, protein packed meal without breaking their carb limit. The shrimp provide lean protein, while the cheese sauce offers healthy fats that help keep you full and satisfied.
For those on keto, Shrimp Con Queso can be served with:
- Cauliflower rice – A great alternative to traditional rice that keeps the dish low carb.
- Zucchini tortillas – These soft, pliable tortillas mimic the texture of flour tortillas but without the carbs.
- Lettuce wraps – A fresh, crisp way to enjoy the dish while adding extra greens to your meal.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Shrimp Con Queso
Shrimp Con Queso is an incredibly versatile dish, and there are many ways to serve it depending on your preference. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
- With Tortilla Chips – Serve it as a dip for a fun and indulgent appetizer at gatherings. The crispy chips contrast beautifully with the creamy queso.
- Over Rice – For a heartier meal, spoon the shrimp and queso over a bed of fluffy white rice or a flavorful cilantro lime rice.
- In Tacos or Burritos – Wrap it up in warm tortillas for an easy, handheld meal. You can even add fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or jalapeños.
- With Grilled Vegetables – Pair it with roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a well balanced plate.
- As a Protein-Packed Salad Topper – Add a spoonful over a fresh salad with crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips to Make the Best Shrimp Con Queso
Even though this dish is simple and quick to prepare, a few tips can help you make it even better:
Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh, high quality shrimp will always taste better than frozen ones. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking them can make them rubbery and tough. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Adjust the Heat Level – If you love spicy food, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the queso sauce for an extra kick.
Keep the Queso Sauce Smooth – When adding shredded cheese to the sauce, do it in small increments while stirring continuously. This prevents clumping and ensures a velvety texture.
Make It Ahead for Meal Prep – Shrimp Con Queso is a great meal prep option. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated in a skillet with a splash of milk or heavy cream to maintain its creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While pepper jack and white American cheese create a creamy and slightly spicy queso, you can experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Colby Jack work well too.
2. What other proteins can I use in this recipe?
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can easily swap it out for grilled chicken, steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
3. How can I make the queso sauce thinner?
If your queso sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more heavy cream, milk, or even a splash of broth until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Can I freeze Shrimp Con Queso?
While shrimp and vegetables freeze well, cheese based sauces tend to separate when frozen. If you plan to freeze this dish, store the shrimp and vegetables separately and make the queso fresh when ready to serve.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shrimp Con Queso is the perfect meal for anyone who loves bold, cheesy, and satisfying Tex Mex flavors. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and packed with protein and healthy fats. Whether you’re following a low carb diet or simply looking for a comforting, restaurant quality meal that can be made in minutes, this dish is a fantastic choice.
The combination of seasoned shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and velvety queso sauce makes every bite irresistible. Plus, with so many ways to serve it, you’ll never get bored!
So, the next time you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make, give this Shrimp Con Queso a try you won’t be disappointed!