Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

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These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos were born out of a craving for something spicy, creamy, and downright satisfying. I remember the first time I made them—I wanted something with a crunch, a little kick, and that addictive sauce that makes you go back for seconds. That first bite delivered on every front: crisp shrimp, a tangy slaw, and the famous bang bang sauce all nestled in a soft taco shell.

What I love about this recipe is its ability to transform a casual weeknight dinner into something that feels special. The textures and flavors come together in such a balanced way that it feels like a dish from your favorite food truck. Plus, it looks and tastes impressive enough to serve at gatherings or a laid-back dinner party.

I also appreciate how customizable these tacos are. You can easily make them as spicy or as mild as you like, and they go well with just about any side. I often pair them with my creamy garlic chicken breasts or keep it light with a side of broccoli salad for a fresh contrast. Another flavorful side that complements this dish beautifully is the candied jalapenos, which add a sweet heat to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

These tacos deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. The shrimp fry up in just minutes, the sauce is only three ingredients, and the slaw adds that cool crunch. It’s the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, crispy, and fresh—basically everything you’d want in a taco. And since they’re so quick to prepare, they make a great option for weeknight meals, meal prep, or entertaining guests without stress.

Ingredients

Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp brings a juicy, slightly sweet bite that crisps up beautifully when fried.

Cornstarch: Essential for that signature crispy coating; it adheres well to the shrimp and helps create a light crunch.

Buttermilk: Soaks the shrimp to tenderize and help the coating stick better while adding a subtle tang.

Garlic Powder & Paprika: These spices season the shrimp perfectly, adding depth and a hint of smoky flavor.

Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil for high-heat frying.

Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce, balancing out the heat.

Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings a delicious sweet-heat flavor that’s iconic to this dish.

Sriracha: Adds that spicy kick; adjust to taste depending on your heat preference.

Cabbage Slaw: Provides crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the shrimp and sauce.

Taco Shells: Soft tortillas work best to cradle the shrimp and slaw, making each bite satisfying and mess-free.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they fry up crispy.

Step 2: Soak in Buttermilk

Place the shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk, garlic powder, and paprika. Let it soak for at least 10 minutes to tenderize and season.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Toss the soaked shrimp in cornstarch until well coated. Shake off any excess to avoid clumping.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches, about 2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level if desired.

Step 6: Toss and Assemble

Toss the fried shrimp with the bang bang sauce. Warm up the taco shells, add a layer of cabbage slaw, then top with the saucy shrimp. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can swap out the shrimp for crispy tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist, using the same batter and sauce. For a lower-carb version, serve the shrimp and slaw in lettuce wraps. If you’re out of buttermilk, a quick mix of milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice works in a pinch. Want a dairy-free option? Use vegan mayo and plant-based milk instead.

For those sensitive to heat, you can reduce the sriracha or use a milder sauce altogether. The sweet chili sauce on its own still delivers amazing flavor with less fire. And if you like things extra spicy, toss in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are best served fresh and warm. They pair beautifully with simple sides like cilantro-lime rice, Mexican street corn, or a refreshing cucumber salad. For drinks, a cold beer or a citrusy mocktail balances the spice wonderfully. If you’re entertaining, consider a taco bar setup with toppings like avocado slices, extra slaw, lime wedges, and chopped scallions for a build-your-own experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover shrimp separately from the taco shells and slaw to maintain texture. Keep the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven to revive the crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. The sauce can be stored in a sealed container for 3-4 days. Assemble fresh tacos only when ready to eat.

FAQs

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time—store the fried shrimp, sauce, and slaw separately and assemble just before serving to keep the textures ideal.

What can I use instead of shrimp in Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Tofu, chicken tenders, or even crispy cauliflower make great substitutes. Stick to the same seasoning and coating methods.

Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos very spicy?

They have a moderate kick from sriracha. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha or omitting it altogether for a milder version.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before soaking in the buttermilk mix and frying.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos won you over, you’ll definitely want to try my Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites. They have the same addictive sauce and crisp texture but use salmon for a richer flavor. For a hearty twist, the Taco Spaghetti Casserole blends taco spices into a comforting baked pasta dish. And for a seafood feast, my Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna layers shrimp and pasta in creamy, garlicky perfection.

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Don’t let this flavorful creation get lost in your recipe bookmarks. Pin this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it easily next time you need a quick, delicious meal. Share it with your friends on Facebook or Instagram—everyone deserves to taste this spicy, crispy, creamy taco magic!

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