The aroma of spicy shrimp wafting through the kitchen can transport you to a coastal paradise where every bite is a celebration. Picture this: crispy phyllo pastry cradling succulent shrimp tossed in zesty spices, topped with creamy avocado—a fusion of textures and flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Every time I whip up these Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups for friends, I’m greeted with wide-eyed excitement and endless compliments. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner party, these bite-sized delights always steal the show. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
- Their vibrant colors make them the star of any gathering
- Plus, they are versatile enough to adapt based on seasonal ingredients you have on hand
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying during a casual night in
I remember the first time I made these spicy treats; my friends devoured them in minutes and begged for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Phyllo Dough: This delicate pastry adds an irresistible crunch; ensure it’s thawed before use.
- Raw Shrimp: Use large shrimp for juicy bites; peel and devein them for best results.
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for creaminess; they balance the spice beautifully.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; skip bottled juice if possible.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
- Spices (Cayenne Pepper and Paprika): Adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne for heat; smoked paprika deepens the flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté shrimp and add richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s taste; never skip these
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients on your counter. Thaw phyllo dough in advance and chop shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté The Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika until they turn pink and fragrant.
Add The Creamy Filling: In a bowl, mash ripe avocados with lime juice and chopped cilantro until smooth. Stir in the sautéed shrimp gently to combine.
Assemble The Phyllo Cups: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay sheets of phyllo dough on a clean surface, brushing each layer lightly with olive oil as you stack them.
Bake Until Golden: Cut phyllo into squares and press them into muffin tins. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Fill With Flavor: Remove baked cups from the oven and allow to cool slightly before filling each one generously with the spicy shrimp and avocado mixture.
Serve these delightful Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups warm for an unforgettable appetizer experience
These little wonders will have your guests singing your praises—trust me Enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite as they revel in the explosion of flavors you’ve created.
You Must Know
- These Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups are a delightful combination of crunchy, creamy, and zesty
- They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in
- The vibrant colors and aromas will have everyone clamoring for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping the shrimp with spices while you preheat the oven. Assemble the phyllo cups and bake them simultaneously for optimal crunchiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or add lime zest for an extra zing. Customize the spice level by adjusting the chili flakes to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover phyllo cups in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat briefly in the oven to keep them crispy instead of microwaving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your shrimp is juicy, avoid overcooking them
- Use fresh avocados to achieve maximum creaminess
- Always let phyllo cups cool slightly before filling to prevent sogginess
Cooking these Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups became a family tradition after my cousin declared them “life-changing.” Her enthusiasm turned every gathering into an appetizer showdown.
FAQ
Can I make Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling ahead but assemble and bake just before serving for freshness.
What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?
You can use cooked chicken or tofu as a great alternative for shrimp.
How do I prevent phyllo dough from getting soggy?
Fill phyllo cups just before serving and allow them to cool slightly prior to filling.

Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 (16 filled cups) 1x
Description
Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer combining crispy phyllo pastry with zesty shrimp and creamy avocado, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, cayenne, and paprika. Sauté until pink and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix mashed avocados with lime juice and cilantro. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp.
- Layer phyllo sheets on a clean surface, brushing each with olive oil. Cut into squares and press into muffin tins.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow cups to cool slightly, then fill with the shrimp and avocado mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 filled cups (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg