Sautéed Shrimp with Spicy Chipotle Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy shrimp simmered in a smoky, spicy chipotle tomato sauce perfect for spooning over rice or crusty bread. This mexican-inspired seafood ready in about 25 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, salt, black pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 1 lb peeled shrimp with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  2. Step 2: Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 small finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, 1 tbsp minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Simmer over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
  5. Step 5: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1 more minute until heated through.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat, stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro and 1 tbsp lime juice. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Spicy Chipotle Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Shrimp with Spicy Chipotle Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Shrimp with Spicy Chipotle Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sautéed Shrimp with Spicy Chipotle Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Sautéed Shrimp with Spicy Chipotle Tomato Sauce?

Mexican seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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