Name: 15 Minute Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Chili Mayo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: Sweet Chili Mayo Mixture:; 1 cup shredded cabbage mixture (from a bag of coleslaw); Juice of 1 lime; 1 tsp rice vinegar (unseasoned); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish; 1 tbsp diced red onions; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp sesame oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Shrimp:; 12 oz shrimp, frozen, deveined and tail off, thawed; 1 tbsp cornstarch; Vegetable oil, for frying; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 head lettuce (butter lettuce recommended); 2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil, plus more as needed

Fresh, vibrant, and ready in just 15 minutes—these Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Chili Mayo are the ultimate quick meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant but is actually fast, easy, and totally satisfying. Picture juicy, perfectly seared shrimp nestled in crisp, buttery lettuce cups, drizzled with a creamy, tangy, slightly sweet chili mayo that makes every bite pop with flavor. The crunch from cabbage and the fresh zing of lime and cilantro elevate this dish into something irresistibly fresh and fun.

These wraps are perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a party appetizer. They’re fresh and bright, yet indulgent enough to feel like a treat. The balance of textures—creamy, crunchy, tender—and the harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors make these wraps a total crowd-pleaser. You’ll be amazed at how something this quick can taste this good!

Recipe Origin

Shrimp lettuce wraps are inspired by Asian-inspired street food and light, healthy meals designed for speed without sacrificing flavor. Pairing sweet chili sauce with mayonnaise creates a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that elevates simple shrimp and crisp vegetables. Using butter lettuce for the wraps keeps each bite soft, delicate, and perfect for scooping up all the delicious fillings. This recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen in record time.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or nonstick pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Small serving bowls for garnish

Why You’ll Love 15 Minute Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Chili Mayo

This recipe is more than a meal—it’s a fast, flavorful experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:

Quick and Easy

Ready in just 15 minutes, these wraps are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute lunches.

Fresh and Vibrant

Crisp cabbage, bright lime, and fresh cilantro balance the richness of shrimp and mayo.

Flavor-Packed

Sweet, tangy, slightly spicy mayo with tender shrimp delivers a flavor punch in every bite.

Customizable

Adjust the heat, swap in different greens, or add avocado for creaminess.

Healthy and Light

Low-carb, fresh, and satisfying, perfect for anyone looking for a lighter meal without sacrificing taste.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Pat shrimp dry: Ensures they sear properly instead of steaming.
Use high heat for shrimp: Quick searing gives a golden exterior and juicy interior.
Adjust mayo mixture: Add more chili sauce for extra kick or more lime juice for tang.
Choose the right lettuce: Butter or Bibb lettuce works best for soft, scoopable cups.
Serve immediately: Wraps are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.

Ingredients in 15 Minute Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Chili Mayo

Sweet Chili Mayo Mixture

Shredded cabbage adds crunch, lime juice and rice vinegar give brightness, fresh cilantro provides herbaceous aroma, red onion adds a mild sharpness, and sweet chili sauce mixed with mayonnaise and sesame oil gives creamy, sweet, and umami-rich flavor. Salt and pepper finish it off perfectly.

Shrimp

Deveined, tail-off shrimp coated lightly with cornstarch, then seared in hot oil for a tender, flavorful bite.

Lettuce Cups

Soft butter lettuce acts as the perfect vehicle for the shrimp and sauce, keeping the dish light and refreshing.

Finishing Touch

Extra cilantro for garnish adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Prepare Sweet Chili Mayo Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, lime juice, rice vinegar, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, sesame oil, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and refrigerate while preparing shrimp.

Prepare the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry, season with salt and pepper, and toss with cornstarch until lightly coated.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sear 1–2 minutes per side until pink and golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Prepare Lettuce Cups

Rinse lettuce leaves and pat dry. Arrange on a serving platter.

Assemble the Wraps

Spoon sweet chili mayo mixture into each lettuce cup, top with seared shrimp, and garnish with additional cilantro.

Serve Immediately

Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying the combination of creamy, spicy, tangy, and crunchy textures in every bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 250
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve 15 Minute Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Chili Mayo

These wraps are perfect on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Side of Rice or Quinoa: Add grains for a more filling lunch or dinner.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture.
Fresh Veggies: Add sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, or radish for more crunch and color.
Dipping Sauce: Serve extra sweet chili mayo on the side for dunking.
Light Cocktail Pairing: These wraps pair well with sparkling water or a crisp white wine for entertaining.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: Make the sweet chili mayo mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate.
Shrimp: Cook shrimp right before serving for the best texture.
Lettuce: Wash and dry lettuce leaves in advance and store in the fridge.
Storage: Leftover shrimp and sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Assemble wraps fresh to prevent soggy lettuce.

Variations to Try

Spicy Version: Add Sriracha or extra chili sauce to the mayo mixture.
Avocado Addition: Top wraps with sliced avocado for creaminess.
Asian-Inspired: Add a dash of soy sauce or sesame seeds to the sauce.
Different Protein: Substitute shrimp with cooked chicken, tofu, or crab for variety.
Extra Crunch: Add toasted peanuts or cashews on top for texture and nutty flavor.

Additional Tips

Work quickly when assembling wraps to maintain lettuce crispness.
Adjust seasoning to taste; a squeeze of extra lime brightens the flavors.
For a lower-calorie version, reduce mayo slightly and increase chili sauce.
Garnish generously with fresh herbs for visual appeal and flavor pop.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A1: Yes, just warm them briefly in the skillet before assembling.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A2: Absolutely—swap shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or cooked mushrooms.

Q3: Can I make the sweet chili mayo ahead of time?
A3: Yes, make a few hours in advance and refrigerate.

Q4: Can I use romaine instead of butter lettuce?
A4: You can, but butter lettuce provides the softest, most scoopable wrap.

Q5: Can I add more veggies?
A5: Definitely—shredded carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers work great.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Assemble fresh before serving.

Q7: Can I freeze this recipe?
A7: Not recommended—lettuce becomes watery after freezing, but shrimp can be frozen separately.

Q8: Can I make this gluten-free?
A8: Yes, just ensure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.

Q9: How can I make it spicier?
A9: Add more minced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the mayo mixture.

Q10: Can I add noodles or rice to make it more filling?
A10: Yes, serve shrimp and mayo over cooked rice noodles or jasmine rice for a hearty version.

Conclusion

These 15 Minute Shrimp Lettuce Wraps with Sweet Chili Mayo are the perfect combination of fresh, crisp, creamy, and flavorful in one bite. Quick to make, packed with protein and veggies, and bursting with bold, zesty flavor, they’re ideal for a fast weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or even as a party appetizer. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch, a little sweetness, and that perfect pop of chili heat that keeps you coming back for more.

Grab your skillet, mix up that sweet chili mayo, and get ready to enjoy a fresh, colorful, and delicious meal in just 15 minutes. These wraps are simple, impressive, and guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!