These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy. With crispy shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce, they bring excitement to any dinner table. They are perfect for family nights or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, they’re pretty easy to make, making them a great option for busy weeknights.

Why You Will Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

This recipe is a hit because it combines delicious flavors with straightforward steps. You can whip these tacos up in no time, using easy-to-find ingredients. They’re fun to eat and perfect for both kids and adults in the family. Everyone will enjoy the crispy shrimp and zesty sauce wrapped in warm tortillas.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Making these tacos is simple! Start by marinating the shrimp to keep them tender. Then, coat them in a seasoned flour mix and fry until golden and crispy. Finish by assembling the tacos with fresh toppings and a drizzle of sauce. It’s an easy, hands-on recipe that’s sure to impress.

What You Need

Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

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

Step-by-Step

In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to tenderize and flavor the shrimp.
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured shrimp back into the buttermilk, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
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.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
To assemble the tacos, place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla, top with fried shrimp, drizzle with the bang bang sauce, and add avocado slices.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

These tacos shine with their fresh toppings! Pair them with a side of Mexican-style rice or black beans for a complete meal. For extra crunch, consider adding sliced jalapeños or more crunchy veggies. You can also enjoy them with a refreshing side salad. They are perfect for Taco Tuesday or even a weekend gathering!

How to Store Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For optimal freshness, keep the shrimp and toppings separate until ready to eat. You can reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Unfortunately, these tacos aren’t the best for freezing because of the texture of the shrimp.

Recipe Tips

Soak shrimp well in buttermilk; it helps with tenderness.
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust spice levels in the sauce to suit your taste.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying for extra crispy shrimp.
Let the shrimp rest on paper towels after frying to avoid sogginess.

Variations & Swaps

Swap shrimp for fish like tilapia or even chicken for different flavors.
For a kid-friendly version, skip the spicy sriracha and use mild mayonnaise.
Make it gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

FAQs

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance. Store the cooked shrimp and sauce separately in the fridge, then assemble the tacos just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze the shrimp?
It’s not recommended to freeze the cooked shrimp as they can lose their crispy texture. However, you can freeze raw shrimp before marinating and use them later.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover shrimp?
To reheat leftover shrimp, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid using a microwave as it can make them rubbery.

Can I use another sauce besides bang bang sauce?
Absolutely! You can use a simple garlic aioli or a chipotle sauce for a different flavor.

What toppings pair well with these tacos?
Lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cilantro make great fresh toppings. You can also add cheese or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.