Grilled Shrimp Caesar Wraps

These grilled shrimp Caesar wraps combine smoky, charred shrimp with crisp romaine, creamy Caesar dressing, and nutty Parmesan, all tucked inside warm tortillas. The result is a satisfying, restaurant-style handheld meal that balances freshness, richness, and bold savory flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick high-protein meal – Ready in about 25 minutes with lean seafood as the centerpiece.
Classic Caesar flavor in wrap form – Familiar taste presented as a convenient handheld dish.
Perfect balance of textures – Crisp lettuce, tender shrimp, creamy dressing, and warm tortillas.
Easy indoor or outdoor cooking – Works on a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill.
Great for meal prep or lunches – Simple to assemble ahead with minimal reheating.
Customizable for lighter options – Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps or whole-grain versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shrimp and Seasoning

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Provides lean protein and quick-cooking texture.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps seasoning adhere and promotes caramelization during grilling.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth without burning like fresh garlic might on a grill.
1/2 teaspoon paprika – Contributes mild warmth and color.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances and intensifies flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the shrimp and complements Caesar dressing.

Wrap Components

4 large flour tortillas – Serve as the soft, warm structure for rolling.
2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped – Adds crisp freshness and traditional Caesar character.
1/2 cup Caesar dressing – Provides creamy tang and signature flavor.
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness and umami depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the shrimp – Pat shrimp dry, toss with olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and lemon juice, and let marinate briefly while preparing other ingredients.

Grill until perfectly cooked – Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, opaque, lightly charred, and curled into a gentle C-shape. Set aside to cool slightly.

Dress the romaine – Toss chopped lettuce with Caesar dressing and half the Parmesan until evenly coated but still crisp. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Warm the tortillas – Heat tortillas briefly on a grill pan or skillet until pliable with light char marks, then keep covered to retain softness.

Assemble the wraps – Arrange dressed lettuce across each tortilla, top with grilled shrimp, sprinkle remaining Parmesan, fold in sides, and roll tightly from the bottom.

Optional final grill – Place wraps seam-side down on the grill for 1–2 minutes per side to seal and add extra char, then slice diagonally and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Dry shrimp thoroughly before seasoning – Ensures proper browning instead of steaming.
Avoid overdressing the lettuce – Keeps wraps crisp rather than soggy.
Use medium-high heat for grilling – Creates flavorful char without overcooking shrimp.
Let shrimp cool slightly before wrapping – Prevents tortillas from becoming wet.
Grill assembled wraps for structure – Helps them stay sealed and easier to handle.
Homemade Caesar elevates flavor – Adds fresher, more complex taste.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 wraps
Calories: ~380 per serving (estimated based on dressing and tortillas used)

Perfect Pairings

Garlic roasted vegetables – Complements the savory shrimp and Caesar flavors.
Simple tomato salad – Adds acidity and freshness.
Sweet potato fries – Provides contrasting sweetness and crisp texture.
Sparkling water with lemon – Cleanses the palate between bites.

Ideal Occasions

Quick weeknight dinners – Fast preparation with satisfying results.
Meal-prep lunches – Portable and protein-rich for busy days.
Casual summer grilling – Perfect handheld option for outdoor meals.
Light entertaining – Easy to serve sliced for sharing.

Storage & Serving Tips

Best enjoyed fresh – Maintains crisp lettuce and warm shrimp texture.
Refrigerate tightly wrapped – Keeps up to 24 hours, though tortillas may soften.
Reheat gently in skillet – Restores warmth without overcooking shrimp.
Store components separately for prep – Prevents sogginess before serving.

Creative Variations to Try

Spicy Cajun shrimp version – Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning and cayenne.
Low-carb lettuce wraps – Swap tortillas for large romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
Avocado Caesar addition – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Mediterranean twist – Include cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Rubbery shrimp – Caused by overcooking; reduce grill time slightly.
Soggy wraps – Use less dressing and assemble just before serving.
Wraps falling apart – Roll tighter and grill seam-side down to seal.
Lack of char flavor – Ensure grill or pan is fully preheated before cooking.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of these wraps lies in balancing moisture, heat, and texture. High-heat grilling produces flavorful browning on the shrimp while keeping the interior tender. Crisp romaine contrasts with creamy Caesar dressing, and Parmesan adds umami depth that ties the elements together. Wrapping everything in a warm tortilla creates a cohesive handheld structure that’s filling yet not overly heavy—at roughly 380 calories per serving, it delivers satisfying protein and flavor in a moderate portion.

Final Thoughts

Grilled shrimp Caesar wraps offer a fresh, protein-rich take on a beloved salad, transforming it into a convenient and flavorful meal. Their quick preparation, adaptable ingredients, and balanced nutrition make them ideal for both everyday dining and casual entertaining. For a lighter approach, use lettuce wraps or reduced-fat dressing while keeping the signature Caesar taste intact.