The tantalizing aroma of sizzling shrimp mixed with the creamy goodness of avocado wafts through the air. Each bite of these Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups bursts with flavor and leaves you wanting more. With crispy phyllo pastry as the base and a kick of spice in the filling, every moment spent preparing this dish transforms into sheer culinary delight.

Picture this: a gathering of friends around your dinner table, laughter bouncing off the walls while you present these beautiful phyllo cups. The excitement in their eyes as they take their first bite is simply priceless. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive celebration, these cups are bound to steal the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly simple by using store-bought phyllo dough
- The flavor explosion will leave everyone craving seconds
- Visually stunning and vibrant, they make any gathering feel special
- Ideal for parties or casual get-togethers; they’re versatile enough for any occasion
I still remember the time I whipped up these Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups for a surprise birthday party. The look on my friend’s face when he took that first bite was unforgettable
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Phyllo Dough: Look for fresh or frozen sheets; thaw them according to package directions for the best results.
- Shrimp: Choose large shrimp for a hearty bite; make sure they are peeled and deveined.
- Avocado: Use ripe avocados for creaminess; they should yield slightly when gently pressed.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese to ensure a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it
- Spices (Chili Powder and Paprika): These spices give your filling that necessary kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor; chop it finely to distribute throughout the mixture.
- Olive Oil: A light drizzle helps crisp up the phyllo dough; don’t skip this step!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all ingredients; taste as you go
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Phyllo Cups: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray muffin tins lightly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.
Assemble Phyllo Layers: Take 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough and layer them, brushing each layer lightly with olive oil as you go. Cut into squares large enough to fit into muffin cups.
Shape the Cups: Gently press each square into muffin tins, creating cup shapes. Bake until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes—watch them closely so they don’t burn
Create the Filling: While phyllo bakes, sauté shrimp in olive oil over medium heat until pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes should do it.
Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked shrimp, diced avocado, cream cheese, lime juice, chopped cilantro, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Fill Your Cups: Once phyllo cups are cooled slightly, generously spoon in your spicy shrimp and avocado mixture. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired—because we always need more green
Your Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups are now ready to be devoured! Serve warm or at room temperature for an impressive appetizer that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe
You Must Know
- Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures
- The crispy phyllo, creamy avocado, and zesty shrimp make for a perfect appetizer
- They are visually stunning and sure to impress your guests at any gathering!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the shrimp first to infuse them with flavor, then bake the phyllo cups while the shrimp cools. This ensures everything is ready together for the ultimate crunch and taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add ingredients like mango or cucumber for a fresh twist, or swap out spices based on what you love. Customizing keeps it exciting every time you make these
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover phyllo cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Reheat in the oven briefly to restore crispiness before serving again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep an eye on your phyllo cups while baking; they can go from golden brown to burnt quickly
- Use fresh shrimp for maximum flavor and tenderness
- Squeeze lime juice over the filling right before serving for that zesty kick!
Creating Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups has brought my family together countless times. We laugh, share stories, and enjoy this delicious treat that’s always a hit during gatherings.
FAQ
What can I substitute for shrimp in this recipe?
You can use cooked chicken or tofu as great alternatives to shrimp in these cups.
Can I prepare these phyllo cups in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time but bake them just before serving.
How do I make these cups less spicy?
To reduce spiciness, use milder seasonings or omit hot sauce from the recipe entirely.

Spicy Shrimp & Avocado Phyllo Cups
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in these crispy phyllo cups filled with spicy shrimp and creamy avocado—a perfect appetizer that’s sure to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients
- 8 sheets phyllo dough
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing and brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray muffin tins with nonstick cooking spray.
- Layer 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with olive oil. Cut into squares and press them into muffin cups.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown; watch closely to avoid burning.
- Sauté shrimp in olive oil over medium heat until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cooked shrimp, diced avocado, cream cheese, lime juice, cilantro, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Once phyllo cups have cooled slightly, fill them with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cups (180g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg