Garlic Guajillo Shrimp Recipe
Introduction
This Garlic Guajillo Shrimp recipe brings together the smoky heat of guajillo chiles with bright citrus and aromatic garlic. It’s a vibrant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to any gathering.

Ingredients
- 2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 5 guajillo chiles (stems removed)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 3 garlic cloves (for sauce)
- 1 shallot (quartered)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Soak the guajillo chiles in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes until they are soft and pliable.
- Step 2: In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, mayonnaise, lime juice, orange juice, 3 garlic cloves, shallot, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Step 3: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large pan or plancha over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 5: Add shrimp to the pan and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Step 6: Remove shrimp from heat and brush them generously with the guajillo glaze. Serve immediately garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, lightly toast the guajillo chiles before soaking them.
- If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds from the chiles before soaking.
- Serve over rice or with warm tortillas for a complete meal.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter glaze option.
Storage
Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or eat cold in a salad. The sauce can be refrigerated and used as a dip or dressing for up to 3 days.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, medium or small shrimp can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for guajillo chiles if I can’t find them?
Pasilla or ancho chiles are good alternatives as they have a similar mild heat and smoky flavor.
PrintGarlic Guajillo Shrimp Recipe
This Garlic Guajillo Shrimp recipe features succulent, large shrimp seared to perfection and glazed with a vibrant, smoky guajillo chile sauce. The sauce combines the deep flavors of soaked guajillo chiles with fresh citrus juices, garlic, shallot, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard, creating a perfect balance of heat and tang. Served with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, this dish brings a bold and refreshing taste perfect for any seafood lover.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced, for cooking)
Guajillo Glaze
- 5 guajillo chiles (stems removed)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 shallot (quartered)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Soak the chiles: Place the guajillo chiles in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 20 to 30 minutes until they have softened, making them easier to blend and infusing the sauce with their smoky flavor.
- Prepare the guajillo glaze: Drain the softened chiles and add them to a blender along with 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, lime juice, orange juice, 3 garlic cloves, shallot, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a rich and tangy glaze.
- Season the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan or plancha over medium-high heat, preparing it for searing the shrimp.
- Sear the shrimp: Place the shrimp in the hot pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they begin to turn opaque. Flip the shrimp and add the minced garlic to the pan, cooking everything together for an additional minute to infuse the garlic flavor.
- Glaze and serve: Brush the hot shrimp generously with the prepared guajillo glaze. Serve immediately garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, fragrant finish.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add more guajillo chiles or include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the glaze.
- If guajillo chiles are unavailable, substitute with mild dried red chiles but note the flavor will differ.
- Serve with warm tortillas or over rice to make it a complete meal.
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry for best searing results.
- Mayonnaise in the glaze helps create a smooth texture and enriches the sauce.
Keywords: guajillo shrimp, garlic shrimp, Mexican seafood, spicy shrimp recipe, guajillo chile, shrimp glaze, seared shrimp

