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 to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up a delicious meal that impresses everyone.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of the creamy Bang Bang sauce and crispy shrimp creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep for lunch.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite garnishes like avocado or pickled onions to make each taco uniquely yours.
- Fun to Assemble: Get the family involved in putting together their own tacos for a fun mealtime activity!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is key. These essential items will help you create the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Necessary for frying the shrimp to golden perfection while ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Helpful for combining ingredients without creating a mess in your kitchen.
- Slotted spoon: Ideal for draining excess oil from fried shrimp, keeping them crispy.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing sauces smoothly without lumps.
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 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.
Enjoy these flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos at your next gathering!
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not just tasty; they also offer a variety of serving options that can enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, these suggestions will take your tacos to the next level.
Fresh Garnishes
- Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
- Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for a zesty kick.
- Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spicy sauce.
Additional Sauces
- Extra Bang Bang Sauce: Drizzle more of the bang bang sauce over the tacos for those who love extra flavor.
- Hot Sauce: Offer various hot sauces on the side for those who enjoy a spicier bite.
Toppings
- Pickled Onions: These add a tangy crunch that pairs well with the shrimp.
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese can enhance creaminess, though it’s optional.
How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
To elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that each taco is perfectly crispy and flavorful.
- Bold Coating Technique: Marinate the shrimp in buttermilk longer for better coating adherence and tenderness.
- Precise Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) for frying, resulting in crispy shrimp without excess grease.
- Batch Frying Method: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve optimal crispiness.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust the sriracha in the bang bang sauce based on your heat preference—a little can go a long way!
- Fresh Slaw Preparation: Allow slaw to sit for 10 minutes after mixing to enhance flavor infusion before serving.
- Tortilla Warmth: Warm tortillas just before assembling to prevent them from breaking when filled.
Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
To complement your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, serve them with these delightful side dishes. Each option brings something special to your meal.
- Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing that adds crunch and zest. Opt for fresh pico de gallo or tangy salsa verde.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy, flavorful salad features corn, lime, cheese, and spices—a perfect companion.
- Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad mixes black beans with corn, tomatoes, and cilantro for a refreshing contrast.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the flavors of the tacos while providing a cooling effect against the spice.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with lime dressing offers freshness and helps balance hearty tacos.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs adds substance without overpowering the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutritional value and pair well with shrimp’s crunchiness.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and complements the bold flavors of the tacos perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out perfectly every time.
Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the shrimp can lead to a lack of flavor and tenderness. Always marinate for at least 10–15 minutes to enhance the taste and texture.
Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy rather than crispy shrimp. Cook in batches for that perfect crunch.
Ignoring Sauce Adjustments: Neglecting to taste and adjust your Bang Bang Sauce can lead to an unbalanced flavor profile. Always taste and modify spice levels according to your preference.
Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can detract from the overall experience of the dish. Warm them up before assembling your tacos for a better texture and flavor.
Not Letting Slaw Sit: If you skip letting the slaw sit, it won’t absorb all the delicious flavors. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes for optimal taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store 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 Taco Recipe
- It’s best to freeze only the shrimp and sauce separately, as tortillas and slaw don’t freeze well.
- Place shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag, labeled with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10–12 minutes until hot.
- Microwave: Heat shrimp in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, but be careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that may help you along the way.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute shrimp with crispy tofu or cauliflower bites tossed in the same sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.
What can I serve with my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Consider pairing these tacos with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or black bean salad for a complete meal that balances flavors.
How spicy is the sauce in this recipe?
The spiciness is adjustable based on how much sriracha you add. Start with one tablespoon and increase if you prefer more heat!
Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce, slaw, and even fry the shrimp in advance. Just assemble when ready to eat for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only bursting with flavor but also offer great versatility. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or sides. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or any day of the week, this recipe will surely impress!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! This vibrant dish features perfectly crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, all wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with fresh slaw. Ideal for Taco Tuesday or any casual gathering, these tacos are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Customize your tacos with optional toppings like avocado or pickled onions to make them your own.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 tacos each) 1x
Ingredients
- 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)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 6–8 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Optional: diced avocado, pickled onions, or extra chili sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar in a bowl.
- Marinate cleaned shrimp in buttermilk for 10–15 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge shrimp in this mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet and fry shrimp until golden brown on both sides (about 2–3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- Toss crispy shrimp with half of the Bang Bang sauce in a large bowl.
- Mix shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper for the slaw.
- Warm tortillas and assemble by adding slaw and shrimp; drizzle with remaining sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 160mg