Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! are an exciting twist on traditional tacos, combining crispy shrimp with a flavorful bang bang sauce. Perfect for casual dinners or gatherings, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. The combination of textures and tastes makes them truly unique, and they can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – With a prep time of just 30 minutes, these tacos come together in no time.
- Delicious Flavor – The spicy bang bang sauce adds a kick that elevates the shrimp to new heights.
- Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite toppings like cilantro, lime, or extra hot sauce for added flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s taco night or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to impress.
- Crispy Texture – The panko breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet – A good skillet is key for frying the shrimp evenly and achieving that perfect golden color.
- Mixing bowls – Use multiple bowls to keep your ingredients organized while you prepare the dish.
- Whisk – A whisk helps you blend sauces smoothly without any lumps, ensuring great flavor in every bite.

Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
For Assembling Tacos
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges, for serving
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!
Step 1: Soak the Shrimp
In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step helps tenderize and flavor the shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip them back into the buttermilk, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
* 1 tablespoon sriracha
Adjust the heat level according to your preference.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
To assemble each taco:
* Place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla.
* Top with fried shrimp.
* Drizzle generously with bang bang sauce.
* Add sliced avocado on top.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over your delicious tacos. Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to consider.
Fresh Toppings
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime adds a zesty kick to your tacos.
- Cilantro – Chopped cilantro provides a burst of freshness and complements the flavors well.
- Sliced Jalapeños – For added heat, sprinkle on some thinly sliced jalapeños.
Salsas and Sauces
- Pico de Gallo – This fresh tomato salsa pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp.
- Guacamole – Creamy guacamole balances the heat and adds richness to your tacos.
Crunchy Additions
- Radish Slices – Thinly sliced radishes add a crisp texture and peppery flavor.
- Crunchy Onions – Fried onions or pickled red onions can elevate the crunch factor.
How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!
Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out amazing.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh shrimp will make a significant difference in taste and texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Tailor the amount of cayenne and sriracha based on your heat preference.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crunch – For an extra crispy coating, dip shrimp in buttermilk twice before breading.
- Heat Oil Properly – Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents sogginess and promotes even cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!
Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can create a more complete meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the tacos nicely.
- Black Beans – Seasoned black beans add protein and richness, making them a hearty side.
- Corn Salad – A refreshing corn salad with lime juice enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Chips and Salsa – Serve tortilla chips with salsa for a crunchy appetizer option.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned grilled veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the spicy flavors of the tacos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos can be a delightful experience, but avoiding some common pitfalls can enhance your results. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:
- Using unseasoned shrimp: Failing to season the shrimp before frying can lead to bland tacos. Always soak them in buttermilk and use spices in the coating for better flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many shrimp in the skillet at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy shrimp. Fry them in small batches for a crispy texture.
- Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the fried shrimp to drain on paper towels can make them greasy. Let them rest briefly after frying to maintain their crispiness.
- Ignoring sauce balance: Using too much or too little bang bang sauce can overpower or underwhelm the dish. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.
- Forgetting fresh toppings: Neglecting fresh ingredients like avocado or lime wedges can lessen the freshness of your tacos. Always include vibrant toppings for a delicious finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!
- If you want to freeze, store the fried shrimp separately from tortillas and toppings.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring all air is removed. These can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, but this may not retain crispiness.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that might help clear up any doubts:
What makes Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos unique?
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are unique because they combine crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce that elevates traditional taco flavors.
Can I use different proteins for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken, turkey, or even vegetables if you’re looking for a non-seafood option.
How spicy are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
The spiciness largely depends on how much sriracha you add to the bang bang sauce. Adjust it according to your taste preferences!
Can I prepare these tacos ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components like the sauce and chopped toppings in advance. Fry the shrimp just before serving for optimal crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any taco night. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces for a personalized touch. Enjoy making this tasty dish!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
Description
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delectable fusion of crispy shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings, delivering an explosion of flavors in every bite. With a delightful crunch from panko breadcrumbs and the freshness of avocado and lime, these tacos are not only satisfying but also customizable to your liking.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each shrimp first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip back into buttermilk and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For the bang bang sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth.
- Assemble tacos by placing cabbage on tortillas, adding fried shrimp, drizzling with sauce, and topping with avocado slices.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 155mg