There’s something so satisfying about building the perfect rice bowl: a base of fluffy grains, vibrant toppings, and bold, flavorful protein.
This Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowl delivers all that and more—juicy, well-seasoned shrimp, crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, and a drizzle of tangy spicy mayo to bring it all together.
It’s my go-to when I want something fast, fresh, and full of flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
Big flavor, no fuss – Just a few pantry spices and fresh ingredients.
Done in under 30 minutes – Ideal for lunch or dinner on a tight schedule.
Perfect texture balance – Tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, creamy avocado.
Heat your way – Add as much or as little sriracha as you like.
Great for meal prep – All the components store beautifully.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Shrimp – Use medium-sized, peeled and deveined shrimp. They cook quickly and soak up flavor.
Olive oil – Helps spices stick and gives the shrimp a nice sear.
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne – A warm, smoky, slightly spicy blend.
Mayonnaise + sriracha + lime juice – The ultimate spicy mayo combo.
Jasmine or brown rice – The fluffy base that ties everything together.
Toppings – Think shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, avocado, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Soy sauce or tamari – Adds an optional salty, umami-rich finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the shrimp dry – Moisture will stop them from searing properly.
Don’t overcook – Shrimp only need 2–3 minutes per side.
Make the mayo ahead – It keeps for days in the fridge.
Use leftover rice – Cold rice fluffs up beautifully once reheated.
Prep toppings while shrimp cooks – You’ll save time and keep everything crisp.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowl
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Let sit a few minutes to absorb the flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
Taste and adjust the spice level to your liking.
Step 4: Prepare the Rice
If not already cooked, prepare jasmine or brown rice according to package instructions.
Fluff with a fork and stir in rice vinegar if using.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the rice into four serving bowls.
Top each with cooked shrimp, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, avocado, and green onions.
Step 6: Finish with Sauce & Garnish
Drizzle with spicy mayo.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and add a dash of soy sauce or tamari if desired.
What to Serve It With
A bowl of miso soup
Chilled green tea or citrus water
Seaweed salad or pickled ginger for contrast
A soft-boiled egg on top for extra protein
Crisp nori sheets for wrapping bites
Variations / Substitutions
Swap shrimp for salmon or tofu for a different protein.
Use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Add more crunch with radish, bell pepper, or edamame.
Skip the mayo and drizzle with sesame oil + lime for a lighter sauce.
Omit cayenne and reduce sriracha for a kid-friendly version.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Gently warm the shrimp and rice. Add fresh toppings afterward.
Mayo – The spicy mayo can be made in advance and lasts 5 days chilled.
Meal prep tip – Keep veggies crisp by packing them separately.
Repurpose – Turn leftovers into lettuce wraps or sushi bowls.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Just thaw fully and pat dry before seasoning.
Is brown rice okay instead of jasmine?
Absolutely! It adds a nuttier taste and more fiber.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Skip the cayenne and use less sriracha to tone it down.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but briefly warm in the pan with the spices to add flavor.
How long does spicy mayo last?
About 5 days in the fridge, stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the shrimp?
Cooked shrimp can be frozen, though the texture is best fresh or refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowl is a flavor-packed bowl of joy that comes together in minutes.
It’s quick, colorful, and always hits the spot—whether I’m meal prepping for the week or throwing together a last-minute dinner.
Every element brings something to the bowl, but it’s the combo of spicy-sweet shrimp and creamy mayo that keeps me coming back again and again.
