Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for a Flavor Explosion
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup Buttermilk (for soaking); 1 cup All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch); 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha (add more for extra heat); 8 pieces Tortillas (preferably corn for gluten-free); 2 cups Shredded cabbage; 1 medium Avocado, sliced; 2 pieces Lime, cut into wedges (for serving)

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The sizzling sound of shrimp frying in hot oil can only mean one thing: Taco Night is about to get even better! These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos combine a crispy coating with a creamy, spicy sauce that’s perfect for those craving a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only can you whip these up in around 45 minutes, but they also deliver a delightful crunch that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this dish promises to impress. Ready to dive into an explosion of textures and tantalizing flavors? Let’s get cooking!

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Why Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Irresistible?

Quick Preparation: In just 45 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any weeknight meal.

Crispy Texture: The shrimp’s crunchy coating delivers an addictive crunch in every bite.

Flavor Explosion: With a mix of creamy mayo, sweet chili, and spicy sriracha, the Bang Bang sauce elevates these tacos to crave-worthy status.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for taco night with family or entertaining friends, everyone will love these tacos!

Versatile Options: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or crispy tofu and customize it to suit gluten-free diets with corn tortillas.

Looking for more delicious seafood options? Try my Spicy Shrimp Sushi or a comforting bowl of Shrimp Corn Bisque to satisfy your cravings!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

• Dive into the flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with these essential ingredients!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – The star of this dish, providing seafood flavor and a crispy texture.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp while infusing flavor.
All-purpose flour – Forms the crispy coating; you can swap it for gluten-free flour if needed.
Panko breadcrumbs – For that extra crunchy layer; regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch.
Paprika – Adds mild flavor and vibrant color to the coating.
Garlic powder & onion powder – Essential for savory depth; don’t skip these!
Cayenne pepper – Adjust the heat level according to your spice preference.
Salt & black pepper – Vital for overall seasoning.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
Sweet chili sauce – Brings a sweet kick, perfect for balancing flavors.
Sriracha – Adds a fiery touch; add more if you love heat!

For Assembly

Tortillas – The perfect wrap; opt for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Shredded cabbage – Provides a refreshing, crunchy element.
Avocado slices – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Lime wedges – Squeeze over the tacos for a bright finish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Soak Shrimp
Begin by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This not only tenderizes the shrimp but also infuses it with flavor, setting the stage for an irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos experience. Ensure the shrimp are fully submerged, using a bowl that allows them some space to soak comfortably.

Step 2: Prepare Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined; this will form the seasoned coating that gives the shrimp its crunchy texture. Set this mixture aside while your shrimp soaks.

Step 3: Coat Shrimp
Once the shrimp has finished soaking, drain the buttermilk and dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture. After coating them with flour, dip the shrimp back into the buttermilk before rolling them in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Ensure the shrimp are fully coated and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Fry Shrimp
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering—about 350°F. Carefully add the shrimp in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and keep them crispy for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Step 5: Make Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spiciness to your liking, ensuring this creamy, slightly sweet sauce is ready to elevate each taco with its flavor.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos
To build your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, take a tortilla and layer shredded cabbage for crunch. Add a generous amount of the crispy shrimp, drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce, and finish with slices of creamy avocado on top. Each layer adds texture and flavor to create the perfect taco.

Step 7: Serve
Arrange your assembled tacos on a serving platter and wedge lime slices on the side for a bright burst of flavor. Encourage everyone to squeeze lime over their tacos just before digging in to enhance the flavors. Enjoy this feast of Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with family and friends!

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What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Elevate your taco night with delicious sides that enhance the flavors of your crispy shrimp delight.

Mexican Street Corn: The smoky, sweet taste of charred corn slathered in mayo and cheese complements the spicy shrimp.
Fresh Garden Salad: A bright and crunchy salad with a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate and adds a light touch to your meal.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweet and salty flavors of crispy sweet potato fries create a delightful contrast to the Bang Bang shrimps.
Margaritas: A chilled margarita, with its fruity tang and refreshing zest, pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp tacos.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole and crunchy chips provide a satisfying texture and are perfect for dipping before savoring the tacos.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and fresh cilantro adds a refreshing element that balances the bold flavors of the tacos.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Hot Oil: Always ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; it should shimmer to achieve that perfect crispy texture on your shrimp.
Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying. Frying in batches keeps the oil temperature consistent, ensuring the shrimp don’t turn soggy.
Watch the Clock: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp instead of the tender bites you desire.
Gluten-Free Swaps: Use gluten-free flour and corn tortillas to make these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos suitable for gluten-free diets without compromising flavor.
Sauce Adjustments: Tailor the heat of the Bang Bang sauce by adjusting the amount of sriracha. Add less for a milder flavor or more if you love a spicy kick!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and slice the avocado and cabbage up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to maintain their quality. Additionally, you can soak the shrimp in buttermilk up to 2 hours before frying for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the shrimp in the flour and panko mixture and fry them right before assembling the tacos. This way, you’ll enjoy crispy shrimp without all the last-minute chaos, delivering delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with these exciting twists!

Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a crunchy coating everyone can enjoy.
Crispy Tofu: Swap shrimp for crispy tofu for a delightful vegetarian option that still offers a satisfying crunch.
Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor boost, replace paprika with smoked paprika, adding a luscious depth to your coating.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Use homemade sweet chili sauce for a personalized touch that can enhance the flavor profile of your tacos.
Roasted Corn: Add some roasted corn to your tacos for a burst of sweetness and texture; it complements the shrimp perfectly!
Cayenne Pepper: Want more heat? Increase the cayenne pepper in your coating or sauce to elevate the spice level!
Spicy Crema: Mix sour cream with sriracha for a tangy, spicy sauce alternative that pairs beautifully with the shrimp!
Cabbage Variety: Try using purple cabbage instead of green for a pop of color and a slightly different crunch that adds vibrancy to your tacos.

If you’re looking for some side dishes to enjoy alongside, consider pairing your tacos with a comforting bowl of Shrimp Corn Bisque. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover crispy shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness, avoiding the microwave.

Freezer: Freeze cooked shrimp on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Bang Bang Sauce: Keep the sauce in the fridge for up to 1 week. It can be made in advance and is perfect for drizzling on any meal.

Toppings: Store shredded cabbage and avocado slices in separate airtight containers. Use within 2 days for the best flavor and freshness.

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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that appear mushy or have dark spots. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp can also work beautifully; just ensure they’re thawed properly before cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
For optimal freshness, store leftover crispy shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crunch. The toppings should be stored separately to maintain their freshness and texture.

Can I freeze cooked shrimp for later use in Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Yes, you can! Freeze your cooked shrimp by spreading them out on a baking sheet to prevent clumping. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for your tacos.

What if my Bang Bang sauce is too spicy?
Very! If the sauce turns out spicier than you desire, you can balance it by adding a touch more mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce. Start with a tablespoon of each, mix well, and taste. Just remember to adjust gradually to achieve your preferred flavor without overdoing it!

Are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! However, be cautious: these tacos contain shrimp; if you or your guests have seafood allergies, you can substitute the shrimp with crispy tofu or chicken. Check all sauce ingredients, as especially the sweet chili sauce may contain allergens. Always read labels for food sensitivities.

How long can I keep the Bang Bang sauce in the fridge?
The Bang Bang sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can make it ahead of time, making mealtime even easier. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might separate slightly during storage.