Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, nestled into warm tortillas, and topped with fresh slaw—every bite is crunchy, saucy, and irresistible. Whether you’re hosting Taco Tuesday or just craving something bold and fun, these tacos deliver big flavor with simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, you can have these delicious tacos ready in no time.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of the creamy bang bang sauce and crispy shrimp creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for taco night, casual gatherings, or even a fun weeknight dinner—these tacos fit any occasion.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh slaw and optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions, they are as nutritious as they are tasty.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love getting involved in assembling their own tacos.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the shrimp for that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for achieving a smooth consistency in your bang bang sauce.
• Slotted spoon: This helps you transfer fried shrimp without excess oil.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
  Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar. Taste and adjust spice level as desired. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Place cleaned shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk. Let soak for 10–15 minutes to tenderize and help the coating stick.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated shrimp in the dry mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all shrimp are cooked.

Step 5: Toss in Sauce

In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy shrimp with half of the bang bang sauce. Reserve the rest for drizzling or dipping.

Step 6: Make the Slaw

In a small bowl, toss cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to slightly soften and absorb flavors.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Add a small handful of slaw to each tortilla. Top with bang bang shrimp. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your taco experience.

With Fresh Toppings

• Diced Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats for a richer flavor.
• Pickled Onions: Offers a tangy crunch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Extra Chili Sauce: For those who love an extra kick, drizzle more sauce on top.

As a Platter

• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with all the toppings and let guests customize their own tacos.
• Family Style: Serve all components separately on a large platter for a fun, communal meal.

Pair with Dips

• Guacamole: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and flavor.
• Salsa Verde: A fresh, herby salsa that brightens up each bite of taco.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, consider these tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better texture and flavor than frozen.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce based on your heat preference.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry shrimp in batches to ensure they turn out crispy rather than soggy.
• Let Slaw Rest: Allowing the slaw to sit helps it absorb flavors and soften slightly for better texture.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

Serving side dishes alongside your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A sweet and spicy corn salad that pairs beautifully with tacos.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice for a refreshing side.
3. Black Bean Salad: A protein-rich salad featuring black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a colorful addition.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add depth to the meal.
5. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole for a classic appetizer.
6. Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa made with ripe mangoes offers sweetness and zest that contrasts nicely with spicy shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be fun and rewarding, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch for.

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them tough. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the shrimp in buttermilk can lead to a less tender texture. Always soak for at least 10 minutes.
• Ignoring the Sauce Adjustments: If you don’t taste and adjust the Bang Bang sauce, it might lack flavor. Feel free to modify the spice level to suit your palate.
• Not Prepping Toppings Ahead: Wait until the last minute to prepare toppings can slow down assembly. Prep your slaw and garnishes earlier for smoother taco building.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving tacos with cold tortillas can affect the overall taste. Warm them before serving for better flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• Enjoy them within 2-3 days for best freshness.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Freeze cooked shrimp separately from tortillas and slaw.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat shrimp in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this recipe.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just thaw them completely before marinating.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?

You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo alternative for a lighter sauce option.

How spicy is the Bang Bang Sauce?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Start with one tablespoon and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I customize the toppings on my tacos?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced avocado, pickled onions, or even fresh jalapeños for extra kick.

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not just full of flavors; they’re also versatile! You can customize them with various toppings or sauces to match your mood. Try this recipe out—you won’t be disappointed!