Crispy Mini Tacos with Prawn Cocktail Filling – The Ultimate Bite-Sized Appetizer

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Imagine serving a dish so irresistible that your guests keep coming back for more. These crispy mini tacos with prawn cocktail filling are exactly that! The crunch of golden-baked tortilla shells paired with the creamy, tangy goodness of the prawn cocktail makes for an appetizer that’s as elegant as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an impressive holiday dish, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create these bite-sized delights, from crafting the perfectly crispy taco shells to making a flavorful prawn cocktail filling.

Ingredients for Crispy Mini Tacos with Prawn Cocktail Filling

Taco Shells

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Small corn tortillas	6	Around 5 inches wide
Cooking salt	1/4 tsp	Use half if using table salt
Olive oil spray	As needed	For crispiness

Prawn Cocktail Filling

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Cooked shrimp	220g (7 oz)	Peeled and diced
Mayonnaise	4 tbsp	Whole egg preferred
Ketchup	1 tbsp	Adds sweetness
Worcestershire sauce	1 tsp	Enhances umami flavor
Horseradish cream	1/2 tsp	Or fresh horseradish
Hot sauce	2 dashes	Optional, for heat
Cayenne pepper	1/8 tsp	Optional, for spice
Garlic powder	1/8 tsp	Or minced fresh garlic
Finely chopped pickles	1 tbsp	Dill or cornichons

Garnish & Serving

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Chives or parsley	1 tbsp	Finely sliced
Salmon roe or caviar	Optional	For extra elegance
Dried black beans/rock salt	As needed	Keeps tacos upright while serving

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Mini Tacos with Prawn Cocktail

Step 1: Preparing the Taco Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut tortillas into 2.4-inch rounds.
3. Warm half of the tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
4. Spray with olive oil and sprinkle salt on top.
5. Flip a muffin tin upside down and press tortillas into the gaps to form a taco shape.
6. Spray tops lightly with oil.
7. Bake for 12 minutes or until crispy and golden.
8. Let cool in the tin to hold their shape.

Step 2: Making the Prawn Cocktail Filling

1. Dice the cooked shrimp into small pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish cream, hot sauce, cayenne, garlic powder, and chopped pickles.
3. Stir in the diced prawns until fully coated.

Step 3: Assembling & Serving the Mini Tacos

1. Fill the crispy taco shells with the prawn cocktail mixture.
2. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley.
3. For an elegant touch, top with salmon roe or caviar.
4. Serve on a bed of dried black beans or rock salt to keep them upright.

Why You’ll Love These Mini Tacos

• Perfect for Parties – Bite-sized and easy to serve.
• Crispy & Creamy – The contrast of textures is irresistible.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the filling ahead and assemble before serving.
• Customizable – Swap shrimp for crab, lobster, or even a vegetarian alternative.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mini Tacos

• Make the shells extra crispy – Bake an extra 2 minutes for added crunch.
• Chill the filling – A cold prawn cocktail mix enhances the contrast with warm shells.
• Use the right tortillas – Corn tortillas crisp up better than flour tortillas.
• Double the batch – These disappear quickly at gatherings! Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe

FAQs About Crispy Mini Tacos with Prawn Cocktail

1. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! Store the crispy taco shells in an airtight container and the prawn cocktail mixture separately in the fridge. Assemble just before serving.

2. What can I substitute for prawns?

You can use crab, lobster, or even smoked salmon for a seafood twist. For a vegetarian version, try diced avocado or hearts of palm.

3. Can I use store-bought taco shells?

Yes, but homemade shells have a better crunch and fresher taste.

4. How do I keep mini tacos upright when serving?

Use a bed of dried beans, rock salt, or a taco holder for presentation.

5. How spicy is the prawn cocktail filling?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat by adding more cayenne or hot sauce.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Appetizer for Your Next Event

Crispy Mini Tacos with Prawn Cocktail Filling are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want an elegant appetizer, these mini tacos are easy to make, visually stunning, and incredibly delicious. Try them out and impress your guests with this simple yet gourmet recipe!

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