Sheet-Pan Shrimp Fajitas with Peppers are a colorful, simple, and super tasty meal that comes together in one pan. Juicy shrimp get cooked alongside sweet bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with classic fajita spices. It’s a quick and easy dish that fills the kitchen with amazing smells and feels like a fiesta on your plate.
I love this recipe because it’s such a fuss-free way to enjoy fajitas without standing over the stove flipping things back and forth. Tossing everything on a sheet pan means fewer dishes, and the shrimp come out perfectly tender every time. Plus, the peppers add such a nice crunch and sweetness that balances the spice. I usually like to double the peppers because they’re just that good.
My favorite way to serve these fajitas is with warm tortillas, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. It’s a fun and hands-on meal that’s perfect for casual dinners or even a quick lunch. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe always feels fresh and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best as they cook quickly and stay tender. If shrimp aren’t your thing, try scallops or thin chicken strips. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red, yellow, and green peppers gives both color and sweetness. You can swap in poblano or Anaheim peppers for a milder, earthier flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give fajitas their classic taste. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, just less smoky. Adjust cayenne for your heat preference.
Lime & Cilantro: These fresh touches brighten the dish. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley works fine, and lime can be swapped with lemon for a different citrus note.
How Do You Cook Shrimp and Veggies Perfectly on One Sheet Pan?
Cooking shrimp and veggies together can be tricky because shrimp cook fast, and veggies can take longer. Here’s what helps make it easy:
- Slice peppers and onions thinly and evenly so they cook quickly and finish around the same time as shrimp.
- Preheat the oven fully to get a quick roast that caramelizes veggies and seals in shrimp juices.
- Spread ingredients out in a single layer on the pan to ensure even cooking and avoid steaming.
- Watch the shrimp closely—they’re opaque and firm when done. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery.
- Add lime juice after cooking to keep shrimp juicy and add fresh flavor.
With these tips, your shrimp will be tender and your peppers nicely caramelized every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sheet pan – I like a large one to hold everything in a single layer, which helps everything cook evenly.
- Mixing bowl – useful for tossing the shrimp and veggies with the spices so they get coated well.
- Measuring spoons – ensure your spices and oil are just right for balanced flavor.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing peppers and onions smoothly and safely.
- Juicer or small bowl – to squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked fajitas for brightness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken strips or steak for a different protein — just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add sliced mushrooms or zucchini along with peppers for more veggies and flavor variations.
- Mix in some shredded cheese or crumbled feta after cooking for extra richness.
- Use a spice blend like taco seasoning or add a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
How to Make Sheet-Pan Shrimp Fajitas with Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Fajitas:
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced
- 1 large red onion, sliced into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime (plus lime wedges for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Tortillas, for serving
- Optional sides: sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 10 to 12 minutes to cook in the oven. So, you can have a delicious, colorful dinner ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Preheat
First, heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or just lightly grease it so nothing sticks.
2. Mix the Spices and Oil
In a big bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you like spice), salt, and pepper.
3. Add Shrimp and Veggies
Put the shrimp, sliced bell peppers, and onion wedges into the bowl. Toss everything well so the spice mix coats all the ingredients evenly.
4. Spread and Roast
Spread the shrimp and veggies out in one layer on your prepared sheet pan. Try not to crowd them so they roast nicely. Pop the pan into the oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and the veggies soften with a little caramelization.
5. Finish and Serve
Take the pan out of the oven, squeeze fresh lime juice over everything, and gently toss. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve warm with tortillas and your favorite toppings like sour cream or guacamole.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. The best way is to leave them in the fridge overnight or speed it up by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture on the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the veggies and spice mix ahead, but it’s best to cook the shrimp and vegetables fresh for optimal texture. If needed, store cooked fajitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery.
What Should I Serve with Sheet-Pan Shrimp Fajitas?
Warm tortillas are classic! You can also enjoy them with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Add sides like sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, or salsa for extra flavor and creaminess.