Name: Creamy Shrimp Con Queso: Quick Keto Fajita Fiesta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil.); 2 cups Bell Peppers (mixed colors) (Any sweet peppers can be used.); 1 medium Red Onion (Yellow or white onion can be substituted.); 1 cup Mushrooms (Can use zucchini or spinach as a veggie base.); 1 pound Shrimp (thawed, deveined, and shelled) (Chicken or tofu can be substituted.); 1 tablespoon Taco Seasoning (Homemade options are available.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half is a lighter alternative.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter option.); 1 cup Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese (Cheddar can be used for milder flavor.); 4 ounces White American Cheese (Good melting cheese like mozzarella works.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in the kitchen, the scent of sizzling shrimp and bell peppers wafted through the air, instantly igniting my appetite. This is the magic of my 20-Minute Shrimp Con Queso, a dish that’s not only a feast for the senses but also a solution for those hectic weeknights when fast food is all too tempting. With succulent shrimp nestled among vibrant fajita veggies and drizzled with rich homemade queso, this low-carb delight promises to put a smile on everyone’s face. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a cozy dinner at home. So, are you ready to dive into this flavorful journey and elevate your weeknight dinners?

18b8f9b3 3da6 4c5b 9d71 d56335f5d808tr tglrjy

Why is Shrimp Con Queso a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of this Shrimp Con Queso bursts with the zesty flavor of fajita veggies and rich queso, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy evenings or those moments you crave home-cooked goodness.

Keto-Friendly: With its low-carb profile, this dish allows you to indulge without the guilt, keeping your diet on track.

One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup, letting you enjoy more time with family or guests.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to mix it up—add jalapeños for spice or swap proteins to cater to everyone’s taste. For instance, try a delicious Honey Garlic Shrimp for a different flavor twist!

Get ready to savor a delightful dish that not only delights the palate but also fits into your lifestyle beautifully.

Shrimp Con Queso Ingredients

For the Fajita Mix
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor; you can substitute vegetable oil if desired.
• Bell Peppers (mixed colors) – Provides sweetness and crunch; any sweet peppers can be used.
• Red Onion – Adds mild onion flavor and sweetness; yellow or white onion works if red is unavailable.
• Mushrooms – Infuses umami flavor and texture; use zucchini or spinach for a different veggie base.
• Shrimp (thawed, deveined, and shelled) – The main protein source that cooks quickly; chicken or tofu can also work as substitutes.

For the Queso Sauce
• Taco Seasoning – Provides spice and flavor depth; a homemade blend of chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin can be easily substituted.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich base for the queso; half-and-half is a lighter alternative, and coconut cream works for dairy-free options.
• Cream Cheese – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; swap with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option.
• Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese – Adds creaminess and a bit of spice; cheddar cheese can be used for a milder flavor.
• White American Cheese – Offers smooth, melty texture; any good melting cheese like mozzarella makes a great substitute.

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients for this Shrimp Con Queso, let’s dive into crafting this delightful dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Con Queso

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan, letting it shimmer for about 1-2 minutes. This will ensure your flavors are locked in right from the start. As the oil warms, gather your vibrant bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once your skillet is hot, toss in the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms. Sauté these colorful veggies for 5-6 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize, releasing their aromatic flavors. Stir frequently to avoid sticking, and watch for the vibrant colors to deepen, signaling that they are ready for the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet alongside your taco seasoning. Stir everything together, ensuring the shrimp are well-coated, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be mindful not to overcook them; perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender and juicy. Once done, remove the shrimp and vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Queso Sauce
Lower the heat to low and add your cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until these ingredients melt together into a smooth, creamy sauce—about 2-3 minutes. The warmth of the skillet will help create a luscious queso base.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses
Gradually add your shredded pepper jack and white American cheese into the creamy mixture. Keep stirring continuously to ensure everything melts evenly, creating a rich, cheesy texture. If the sauce seems too thick for your liking, feel free to add a splash more heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together
Return the sautéed shrimp and colorful veggies back into the skillet with the queso sauce. Gently stir to coat everything with that deliciously creamy texture of your Shrimp Con Queso. Allow it to heat through for another minute or two, making sure every ingredient is beautifully integrated and deliciously warm.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your amazing Shrimp Con Queso is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately, either in warm tortillas or simply as a dip with crispy tortilla chips. The combination of tender shrimp, sautéed veggies, and gooey queso will surely delight everyone at the table.

18b8f9b3 3da6 4c5b 9d71 d56335f5d808bl q3du3i

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Con Queso are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the fajita vegetables (bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy queso sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just remember to add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to create a smooth consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the vegetables and sauce in a skillet, add the thawed shrimp, and heat until everything is just warm and bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Shrimp Con Queso with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp Con Queso

Timing is Key: Cook shrimp until just pink and opaque; overcooking makes them tough.

Consistent Heat: Keep the skillet at medium heat while sautéing vegetables to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Creamy Queso: If sauce thickens when refrigerated, add milk or cream while reheating to maintain the creamy texture of your Shrimp Con Queso.

Add Some Kick: For spice lovers, toss in jalapeños while sautéing veggies to elevate the flavor profile.

Effortless Cleanup: Use a non-stick skillet to minimize sticking and make cleanup easier after enjoying this delicious meal.

Shrimp Con Queso Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Shrimp Con Queso recipe, letting your culinary imagination run wild!

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the veggie mix for an extra layer of heat that complements the creamy queso beautifully.
Vegetarian Delight: Use sautéed mushrooms and zucchini instead of shrimp, and add black beans or pinto beans for protein-packed goodness. This twist remains hearty and satisfying while keeping it vibrant.
Protein Swap: Try diced chicken breast or even crispy tofu as a substitute for shrimp. They both soak up flavors wonderfully, making for a delicious variation!
Creamy Twist: For a luxurious touch, swap out heavy cream with mascarpone cheese, resulting in an ultra-creamy and rich sauce that feels indulgent.
Southwestern Flair: Enhance the flavors by adding corn and black beans to the sautéed veggies, lending a festive touch reminiscent of your favorite southwestern dishes.
Add Some Crunch: Mix in some crushed tortilla chips right before serving for extra texture and a delightful crunch in each bite.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions over the top for a fresh, aromatic finish that brightens up every mouthful.
Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheese combinations, like Gouda or queso blanco, to create a unique flavor profile in your queso sauce.

No matter how you choose to customize, each variation will bring its own flavor profile to this delectable dish. If you’re looking for more shrimp inspiration, check out my Honey Garlic Shrimp for another crowd-pleaser!

What to Serve with Shrimp Con Queso?

Bring your dining experience to life by pairing delightful sides that elevate this creamy, cheesy dish into a full-fledged fiesta!

Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas provide the perfect wrap for scooping up the Shrimp Con Queso, creating a delightful handheld meal.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: These crunchy chips are ideal for dipping into the rich queso, enhancing the texture and adding a satisfying crunch.
Zesty Guacamole: A dollop of creamy guacamole adds a fresh, cooling contrast to the flavorful shrimp and cheese, ensuring a balanced bite.
Fresh Salsa: Bright, tangy salsa complements the richness of the queso, delivering a burst of freshness and lightening the meal.
Spanish Cauliflower Rice: Fluffy, low-carb cauliflower rice makes for a delightful bed to serve the Shrimp Con Queso on, soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn enhances the meal with its natural sweetness, bringing an additional layer of flavor to your table.
Margarita: Pair this dish with a refreshing margarita, uniting citrusy notes that awaken the palate and beautifully meld with the vibrant fajita flavors.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich, silky chocolate mousse that provides a delightful contrast to the savory, cheesy shrimp dish.

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Con Queso

Fridge: Store your Shrimp Con Queso in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To preserve its creamy texture, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Freezer: You can freeze leftover Shrimp Con Queso for up to 3 months. Pack it in airtight containers, ensuring no air pockets, as this helps prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through for the best texture.

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the shrimp while reheating to maintain their tender, juicy consistency. Enjoy your Shrimp Con Queso again without losing its delightful flavors!

18b8f9b3 3da6 4c5b 9d71 d56335f5d808br j2pfwy

Shrimp Con Queso Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm, smell fresh, and are free of dark spots or any off-putting odor. The color should be vibrant and translucent. If buying frozen shrimp, choose one that is properly thawed and deveined to ensure the best cooking experience.

What are the best storage methods for leftover Shrimp Con Queso?
You can store your Shrimp Con Queso in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For optimal texture, reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it thickens up. This way, you can enjoy the richness without losing its creamy goodness!

Can I freeze Shrimp Con Queso?
Yes! To freeze your Shrimp Con Queso, pack it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring no air pockets are present to avoid freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

What should I do if my queso sauce is too thick?
If your queso sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of heavy cream or milk gradually while stirring over low heat. This will help you achieve that perfect creamy consistency. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer for a couple of minutes to help it thicken up.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very much! If you’re cooking for someone with a dairy allergy, consider substituting the heavy cream and cheese with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives. For those on keto, this recipe is low in carbs and fits perfectly, but please always check ingredient labels as some options may have hidden sugars. Enjoy the beauty of homemade food tailored to everyone’s needs!

How can I add extra flavor to my Shrimp Con Queso?
To elevate the flavor of your Shrimp Con Queso, add diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables for a spicy kick! Alternatively, fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro can add a refreshing zest. The more the merrier! Customize it to suit your palate.