Name: Irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for a Flavorful Feast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Fresh Shrimp (Can substitute with crispy tofu or chicken); 1 cup Buttermilk (For soaking shrimp); 1 cup Flour (For coating shrimp); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (For extra crunch); 1 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Adjust for spice preference); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Base of the sauce); 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce; 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (Adjust according to taste); 8 pieces Tortillas (Flour or corn); 2 cups Shredded Cabbage (Red or green cabbage options); 1 medium Avocado (Creamy topping); 2 pieces Lime Wedges (For serving)

The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting hot oil can instantly transport me to my favorite beachside taco joint. That’s the magic of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with Spicy Dipping Sauce! This dish captures the essence of casual dining while being incredibly easy and quick to prepare at home. Not only do these tacos offer a satisfying crunch from crispy shrimp, but the bold bang bang sauce gives them a perfect kick! With endless customization options to make them gluten-free or to switch up proteins, they are a fantastic crowd-pleaser for any taco night. Are you ready to experience this flavor-packed delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a Must-Try?

Bold, Flavorful Delight: The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos bring an exciting combination of crispy fried shrimp and a rich, spicy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.

Quick & Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap in crispy tofu or chicken for a different protein option, making it easy to cater to your dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: These tacos are fantastic for gatherings, sure to impress family and friends alike. Pair them with sides like Mexican street corn, or enjoy a refreshing margarita for a complete meal!

Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply substitute with gluten-free flour and corn tortillas, allowing everyone to join in on the taco fun.

Get ready to savor every bite of these irresistible tacos—you won’t regret it!

Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Fresh shrimp provides a delicious sea flavor; you can swap with crispy tofu or chicken for non-seafood lovers.
• Buttermilk – Soaks into the shrimp for tenderness and moisture; soak shrimp for at least 30 minutes.
• Flour – Creates a crispy coating; mix with spices to enhance the flavor profile.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives an extra crunch when fried; use regular breadcrumbs if needed, but they won’t be as crispy.

For the Seasoning
• Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Black Pepper) – Enhances the flavor with a perfect balance of heat; adjust cayenne for your spice preference.

For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a lovely sweet note to balance the heat.
• Sriracha – Provides a kick of heat; adjust according to your taste.

For the Tacos
• Tortillas – Soft flour or corn tortillas hold the taco together; choose based on your preference.
• Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness; try red or green cabbage for different flavors.
• Avocado – Creamy and nutritious, perfect for topping your tacos.
• Lime Wedges – Offers a bright zesty finish when squeezed over the tacos.

Get your ingredients ready and let’s make those Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos come to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Soak Shrimp
Begin by submerging your fresh shrimp in a bowl of buttermilk, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the shrimp soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator; this tenderizes them and enhances moisture. While waiting, gather your other ingredients and prepare for the coating process, so you are ready to take the next step!

Step 2: Prepare Coating
In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour with spices, including paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This seasoned blend will create a delightful crust that complements the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, providing a flavor-packed bite once fried.

Step 3: Coat Shrimp
Once the shrimp have soaked, drain them from the buttermilk, then dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Next, dip the shrimp back into the buttermilk for a second coating and finally coat them with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture. Set aside the coated shrimp on a plate while you prepare to fry them.

Step 4: Fry Shrimp
In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, ensuring it’s hot enough to achieve that coveted golden brown color. Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, frying each side for about 2-3 minutes until they turn crispy and beautifully brown. Once done, remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to keep that lovely crunch.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth and well combined. Adjust the sriracha to reach your desired heat level, as this scrumptious Bang Bang sauce is what truly elevates your tacos. Set aside the sauce for drizzling over the assembled tacos.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos
To build your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, lay a warm tortilla flat and generously layer it with shredded cabbage, followed by the crispy fried shrimp. Drizzle a healthy amount of the bang bang sauce over the shrimp and finish with creamy avocado slices. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for that fresh, zesty kick!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can soak the shrimp in buttermilk and prep the coating (flour mixed with spices) up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Additionally, the bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply coat and fry the shrimp fresh for that crispy texture, and assemble the tacos with your prepped toppings and sauce. This way, you’ll have delicious tacos ready to serve with minimal effort—all while keeping that delightful crunch and flavor!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Add a burst of flavor to your taco night by complementing these crunchy delights with some delightful sides and beverages.

Mexican Street Corn: This char-grilled corn, slathered in mayo, cheese, and lime, provides sweet and savory accents that pair perfectly with the spiciness of the tacos.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crisp, tangy cucumber salad brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bang bang shrimp, enhancing your meal with vibrant textures.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds depth and flavor, making each taco even more indulgent—it’s a classic that never disappoints!
Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and zesty pineapple salsa brings a tropical vibe that complements the spicy shrimp beautifully—a fun twist for your taste buds.
Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Light and crunchy chips with a side of zesty salsa create a delightful appetizer that sets the tone for your taco feast.
Margaritas: The refreshing zest of a traditional margarita balances the bold flavors of your shrimp tacos, making each sip a celebration!
Lime Sorbet: For a light dessert, lime sorbet offers a tangy, palate-cleansing finish that echoes the citrusy goodness of the lime wedges served with the tacos.

With these pairings, your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will be the star of the meal!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with these exciting variations to make them uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend and use corn tortillas for a delicious gluten-free option.
Spicy Twist: Add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the shrimp coating for an exciting heat boost.
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu or grilled chicken to cater to different dietary preferences.
Creamy Sauce: Mix in some avocado mayo or Greek yogurt with the bang bang sauce for a unique creamy twist.
Fresh Herbs: Toss in some fresh cilantro or green onions to the cabbage topping—this adds brightness and freshness delightful in every bite.
Crunchy Veggies: Slip in some pickled onions or shredded carrots among the fillings for additional crunch and a pop of color.
Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of honey or a splash of sweet chili sauce over the assembled tacos for a sweetening contrast to spice!
Baked Option: For a healthier twist, try baking the coated shrimp in the oven instead of frying for a lighter, guilt-free version.

Each variation invites you to explore new flavor profiles, making your taco experience even more joyful. If you love spicy creations, don’t forget to check out Buffalo Chicken Tacos or if you’re in the mood for something sweet, dig into Sweet Savory Tacos. There’s a world of deliciousness to embrace!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, keep toppings separate until ready to eat.

Freezer: For best results, freeze the fried shrimp separately for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness. Avoid freezing assembled tacos, as toppings will soggy.

Reheating: To reheat the fried shrimp, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method ensures your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos stay crispy!

Sauce Storage: The bang bang sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This allows you to enjoy it with other dishes too!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

• Fry in Batches: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring each piece crisps up perfectly without becoming soggy.

• Check Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding shrimp—around 350°F (175°C)—for the best crunchy texture.

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the bang bang sauce and chop your toppings ahead of time for quick assembly, making dinner prep a breeze.

• Adjust Spice Level: Taste the bang bang sauce as you mix; feel free to adjust the sriracha to match your desired heat for the tacos.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp or produce makes all the difference in flavor—choose the best quality for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

• Keep Tacos Warm: If serving a crowd, keep assembled tacos in a low oven (around 200°F) to prevent them from cooling while you fry the shrimp.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?
I recommend using fresh, large shrimp for the best flavor and texture in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild scent of the sea. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp can be a great alternative, just be sure to thoroughly thaw them before cooking.

How long can I store leftover tacos in the fridge?
You can store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, I recommend keeping the toppings separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their freshness and crunchiness.

Can I freeze the fried shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best results, freeze the fried shrimp separately in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

What if my bang bang sauce is too spicy?
If you find that your bang bang sauce is too spicy, don’t worry! You can balance it out by adding more mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce to mellow the heat. Simply mix in small increments until it reaches your preferred taste. Always taste as you go!

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Certainly! To make your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend and use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. This way, everyone can enjoy their tacos without worry, and they’ll still be delicious!

Are there any dietary considerations for my pets or allergies?
Yes, it’s important to be mindful of potential allergies with the ingredients in Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. This recipe contains shellfish, which can be an allergy trigger for some. Additionally, Sriracha contains garlic, which is toxic to pets, so be sure to keep any leftovers out of their reach.