Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos have a special place in my kitchen for a reason. The very first time I made them, I was craving something spicy, creamy, and satisfying with just the right crunch. These tacos hit all the right notes and left everyone at the table asking for seconds. The combination of the crispy shrimp tossed in that addictive bang bang sauce and the coolness of the slaw wrapped in a warm tortilla is just irresistible.

I love how quickly this meal comes together, making it a weeknight favorite. It’s one of those dishes that looks impressive, tastes like it came straight from a trendy food truck, but is so easy to pull off at home. Every time I prepare these tacos, they bring a sense of excitement and comfort, which is a rare and beautiful balance in a recipe.

Not to mention, they’re completely customizable. I’ve served them with everything from simple cabbage slaw to pickled onions and avocado slices. And if you’re anything like me and enjoy meals with bold flavor and a little heat, these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are guaranteed to become a repeat request in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

These tacos are all about texture and flavor. The shrimp are perfectly crispy, thanks to a light coating before frying, and the bang bang sauce is the ideal balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy. It clings to the shrimp just right, coating them in luscious flavor with every bite.

They’re quick to make but feel like a gourmet treat. You can prepare the shrimp and sauce in under 30 minutes, and with a few fresh toppings, you’re set for a dinner that wows. Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit different diets and preferences, from spicy lovers to those who prefer a milder bite.

If you enjoy dishes like Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli or Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, you’re going to love the vibrant flavor and quick-fix nature of these tacos. Also, if you haven’t tried my Marry Me Shrimp Pasta yet, it’s another shrimp favorite worth checking out!

Ingredients

Shrimp are the stars of this dish. I use medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy, creamy bang bang sauce.

Cornstarch is essential for that crisp coating. It gives the shrimp a light, crunchy texture when fried.

Buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp and helps the cornstarch adhere better, adding a touch of tanginess as well.

Sweet chili sauce is the foundation of the bang bang sauce. It brings sweetness, tang, and mild heat.

Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps carry all the flavors of the sauce. I prefer full-fat mayo for richness.

Sriracha brings the fire. Adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.

Tortillas serve as the perfect vessel. I use soft flour tortillas, but corn tortillas work too.

Shredded cabbage or slaw mix offers crunch and freshness to balance the spicy shrimp.

Green onions and cilantro provide a final burst of freshness and color.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by cleaning and drying your shrimp. Soak them briefly in buttermilk to tenderize and flavor them. Then, coat each shrimp evenly in cornstarch for that signature crispy bite.

Step 2: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a skillet until hot. Fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Taste and adjust the sriracha if you like more heat. The sauce should be creamy and pourable.

Step 4: Toss the Shrimp

Once all the shrimp are fried, gently toss them in the bang bang sauce until well coated. Don’t do this step too early or the shrimp may lose their crunch.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas and place a layer of slaw or shredded cabbage. Top with several bang bang shrimp, then finish with chopped green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily adjust these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos to fit different tastes or dietary needs. If you prefer a lighter option, bake or air fry the shrimp instead of deep frying. The crunch is slightly less intense, but the flavor still shines through.

For a healthier sauce, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. It keeps the creaminess but adds protein and tang. If you’re avoiding shrimp, crispy tofu or even cauliflower florets make great alternatives with the same bang bang sauce.

You can also mix up the slaw. Try a mix of carrots and cucumber for a refreshing crunch, or add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. And if you like it extra spicy, a few jalapeño slices on top go a long way.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These tacos are delicious on their own, but I love serving them with simple sides that complement their bold flavor. A cilantro lime rice or Mexican street corn salad pairs beautifully. Chips and fresh guacamole are also great additions for a taco night spread.

For drinks, consider a chilled citrusy cocktail like a margarita or mojito, or go non-alcoholic with a tangy limeade. The creamy-spicy combo of the tacos loves something refreshing alongside.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and slaw separately to preserve the textures. Keep the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispiness.

The bang bang sauce can be made ahead and stored for about a week in the fridge. Assemble fresh tacos only when ready to serve for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating or frying. Moisture will prevent the coating from crisping up.

How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level is moderate. The sriracha gives a nice kick, but it’s balanced by the sweetness of the chili sauce and the creaminess of the mayo. You can easily adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead, like frying the shrimp and making the sauce, but it’s best to assemble the tacos fresh so they don’t get soggy.

What toppings go best on Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Crispy slaw, green onions, cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime all complement the shrimp perfectly. Choose your favorites and pile them high.

Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos gluten-free?

They can be! Use cornstarch for coating, gluten-free tortillas, and double-check your sauces. Many sweet chili sauces are gluten-free, but always read the label.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos stole your heart, you’ll definitely want to try the Sticky Honey Garlic Steak Rotini next. It offers that same sweet and savory dynamic in a cozy pasta format. Another must-try is the Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce — they’re quick, flavorful, and ideal for lunch or dinner.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If you’re as obsessed with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos as I am, make sure to save this recipe for later. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s just a click away next time taco cravings hit. Share it with friends who love a little kick in their food, or post it on your socials and let everyone in on your new taco obsession. Recipes this good deserve to be passed around!

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