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–+ servings

Easy Famous Fish Tacos Recipe

This easy fish taco recipe combines tender, spiced tilapia with a tangy sriracha-lime crema and fresh, vibrant toppings.
Perfect for gatherings, these tacos are simple to prepare and pack bold flavors in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired
Servings 24 tacos

Equipment

  • Rimmed baking sheet with parchment or silicone mat
  • Griddle or skillet (cast iron preferred for best results)

Ingredients
  

For the Fish Tacos:

  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1½ pounds tilapia fillets
  • 1 tablespoon extra-light olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 24 small white corn tortillas

For the Sriracha-Lime Crema:

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce optional

Topping Suggestions:

  • Shredded purple cabbage
  • Sliced avocado
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Diced red onion
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Grated cotija cheese
  • Lime wedges

Instructions
 

Cook the Fish:

  • Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  • In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, cumin, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.
  • Place the seasoned fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the fish with olive oil and place small dots of butter on each piece. Bake the fish for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through the cooking time. For a golden finish, broil the fish for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Prepare the Sriracha-Lime Crema:

  • While the fish cooks, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and sriracha in a medium bowl. If not serving immediately, refrigerate the crema for up to 3 days.

Toast the Tortillas:

  • Using a Griddle: Heat the griddle over medium-high heat and toast the tortillas in a single layer for 15-30 seconds on each side. Look for light browning in spots.
  • Using a Skillet: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Toast the tortillas one layer at a time for 15-30 seconds per side, ensuring they are warm and slightly golden.

Assemble the Tacos:

  • When the fish is ready, transfer it to a serving platter and gently break it apart into large chunks using forks.
  • Set out the warmed tortillas, prepared crema, and your choice of toppings in separate bowls. Let everyone assemble their tacos by layering the fish, fresh toppings, and a drizzle of the crema.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips: The fish can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance and served at room temperature.
Crema Variations: For a milder sauce, omit the sriracha, but it adds a flavorful kick that complements the fish.
Substitute Shrimp: If preferred, replace tilapia with shrimp. Use half the spice amounts per pound of shrimp for best results.
Tortilla Options: While corn tortillas offer authentic flavor and a gluten-free choice, you can use flour tortillas for a softer texture.
Keyword Easy fish taco recipe, easy recipes, Gluten-free fish tacos, Homemade taco ideas, Quick taco recipes, Simple tilapia tacos
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