Ultimate Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe You’ll Adore

Crispy, golden shrimp, bursting with a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled in a warm tortilla with a refreshing slaw…these Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget. The magic lies in the contrast: the succulent, slightly sweet shrimp, the fiery bang bang sauce, and the cool, crisp slaw all working together in perfect harmony. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure.

These tacos are designed for both convenience and maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or a fun and interactive meal for a weekend gathering, these bang bang shrimp tacos are guaranteed to be a hit. The entire recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it a winner for busy cooks.

Why you’ll love this Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

• Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The creamy, spicy bang bang sauce is incredibly addictive and easy to customize to your spice preference.
• The combination of textures – crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy slaw – is incredibly satisfying.
• This is a fun and interactive meal that everyone can customize to their liking.
• These Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties and gatherings.
• The recipe is easily adaptable to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 small head green cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Lime wedges, for serving

Bang bang shrimp tacos makes every moment feel indulgent. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the slaw for a tangier, lighter dressing.

How to make Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, pour the buttermilk.

Step 2: Bread the Shrimp

Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, then dip in the buttermilk, and dredge again in the flour mixture. Ensure the shrimp is fully coated.

Chef’s Tip: For extra crispy shrimp, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for the second dredge. This will add an extra layer of crunch.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the shrimp in a single layer and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove shrimp and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Chef’s Tip: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp. This will ensure they get crispy and don’t absorb too much oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the shrimp is frying, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 5: Prepare the Slaw

In another bowl, prepare the slaw. Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.

Chef’s Tip: For a more vibrant slaw, add a splash of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas according to package directions. Spread a spoonful of bang bang sauce on each tortilla, top with fried shrimp, and then with the slaw. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the shrimp. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Taste and adjust the bang bang sauce to your preferred spice level. Start with a small amount of sriracha and add more as needed.
• Prepare the slaw and bang bang sauce ahead of time to save time on the day of serving.
• Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with black beans and rice for a complete and satisfying meal. A side of elote (Mexican street corn) would also complement the flavors perfectly. For a refreshing beverage, try a sparkling limeade or a light Mexican vegetable broth.

Craving more inspiration for your next meal? Check out this recipe for turkey turkey pepperoni pizza chips. It’s another fun and flavorful option!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat the shrimp, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

Looking for another great chicken option? We recommend this dill pickle chicken recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these tacos?

It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled tacos, as the slaw and sauce can become watery. However, you can freeze the fried shrimp separately. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level of these tacos can be adjusted to your preference. The sriracha in the bang bang sauce is the primary source of heat. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. You can also omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use a different type of slaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of slaw. A red cabbage slaw or a jicama slaw would also work well. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or radishes, to the slaw for added flavor and texture.

These Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite. The creamy, spicy sauce combined with the crispy shrimp and refreshing slaw creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to become a new favorite. Give them a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!