The BEST Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe brings together crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce and nestled in soft, warm tortillas. You get that perfect crunch along with a little kick of heat, plus fresh toppings like crunchy slaw or avocado that make each bite exciting and fresh. It’s a fun twist on classic tacos that feel lively and satisfying.
I love making these tacos when I want something quick but impressive. The bang bang sauce is my secret weapon—it’s spicy and creamy but not overwhelming, so it highlights the shrimp perfectly. I usually make a batch of the sauce ahead of time to save time, and it makes the whole process a breeze. It’s one of those recipes that always gets compliments, and it’s so easy I don’t mind making it on a weeknight after work.
For serving, I like to load the tacos up with some crunchy cabbage slaw and a squeeze of lime to brighten everything up. Sometimes I add a few slices of creamy avocado for extra richness. This meal works great for casual nights with family or friends, and it’s fun to eat with your hands. Bang bang shrimp tacos never fail to bring smiles around the table, and I think you’ll love them just as much as I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for a juicy bite. If you can’t find shrimp, try using small scallops or even bite-sized chicken pieces. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Flour and Cornstarch: The combo creates a crispy coating. You can swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if needed. Cornstarch keeps the crust light and crunchy.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise provides creaminess, while sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and mild heat. If you like it less spicy, reduce Sriracha or use a milder hot sauce. Use vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Cabbage Slaw: Adds crunch and freshness. Feel free to use shredded lettuce, kale, or coleslaw mix. It balances the rich shrimp and sauce nicely.
Tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas both work well. Warm them up to make them pliable and easy to fold around the shrimp and toppings.
How Do I Make the Shrimp Coating Crispy Without Getting Greasy?
The key to crispy shrimp is the batter and frying technique:
- Mix flour and cornstarch for a light, crunchy crust.
- Dip shrimp in wet mix (egg and buttermilk) first so the dry mix sticks well.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F). Cooler oil = greasy shrimp.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches so shrimp cook evenly and stay crispy.
- Drain fried shrimp on paper towels to soak up any extra oil.
Following these tips will give you golden, crunchy shrimp that melt in your mouth without feeling heavy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Deep skillet or frying pan – perfect for frying shrimp evenly and keeping oil temperature steady.
- Slotted spoon – helps you lift shrimp out of hot oil safely while draining excess oil.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll use these for the wet and dry coatings, plus the bang bang sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep your seasoning and sauce ratios just right.
- Paper towels – essential to soak up extra oil and keep shrimp crispy.
- Spatula or tongs – handy for turning tortillas and assembling tacos without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for crispy fried chicken strips if you prefer poultry; works great with bang bang sauce too.
- Add avocado slices for creaminess that cools the spice and adds healthy fats.
- Mix in thinly sliced jalapeños or pickled red onions for a tart, spicy crunch.
- Use pepper jack or cotija cheese crumbles for a mild cheesy boost that pairs well with the sauce.
The BEST Bang Bang Shrimp Taco Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 to 2 tsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (mix of green and purple)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so around 25 minutes total. It’s quick to make, perfect for a tasty weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice. Taste and adjust the heat if needed. Set this delicious sauce aside while you cook the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Shrimp Batter
In a large bowl, stir together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg with buttermilk until smooth. This mix helps the coating stick to the shrimp and makes it crispy.
3. Coat the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp first into the egg and buttermilk mix, then dredge it in the flour mixture until fully covered. This double coating gives your shrimp a perfect crunchy texture.
4. Fry the Shrimp
Heat enough oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to reach about 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Warm the Tortillas
Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until warm and soft.
6. Assemble Your Tacos
Start with a warm tortilla, add a layer of shredded cabbage, then a few crispy shrimp, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
7. Add Sauce and Garnish
Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the shrimp and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh squeeze of citrus.
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, creamy, and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or speed it up by placing sealed shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid soggy batter.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Shrimp?
You can bake the shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. While not quite as crunchy as frying, it’s a healthier alternative.
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to help maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the shrimp soggy.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce actually tastes better after sitting a few hours, which helps flavors meld. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
