Name: Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste); 2 cups shredded coleslaw mix; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 small tortillas; Vegetable oil, for frying

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

These tacos bring together crispy fried shrimp with a creamy and slightly spicy sauce that makes every bite exciting. You’ll love the mix of textures—from crunchy shrimp to tender tortillas—and the fresh toppings like shredded cabbage and lime that brighten the flavors. This dish is customizable and works great for weeknight dinners or serving friends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Buttermilk
All‑purpose flour
Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper
Panko breadcrumbs
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha (adjust to taste)
Small flour tortillas
Shredded cabbage
Avocado slices
Lime wedges

Directions

Soak the shrimp in buttermilk in the refrigerator to tenderize and add flavor.
In a bowl, mix the flour with paprika, garlic and onion powders, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Remove shrimp from buttermilk, let excess drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour.
Dip floured shrimp back into buttermilk, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat. Fry shrimp in batches until golden and cooked through, then drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to make the bang bang sauce.
Place shredded cabbage on each tortilla, top with fried shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce, add avocado slices, and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 4 servings (8 tacos)
Prep time: ~30 minutes
Cook time: ~15 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cooked shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat shrimp in a skillet or microwave until warm, then assemble tacos fresh so the tortillas and toppings stay tasty.

FAQs

What is bang bang sauce made of?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, corn tortillas can be used if you prefer a different texture or want a gluten‑free option, just warm them before assembling.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and shred the cabbage ahead, but it’s best to fry the shrimp right before serving so they stay crispy.

What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can try crispy tofu, chicken, or fish as alternative proteins for a similar taco style.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add to the sauce; adjust it to match your preference.

Is there a gluten‑free version?

Yes, using gluten‑free flour and gluten‑free breadcrumbs will make the recipe suitable for gluten‑free diets.

Can I use an air fryer for the shrimp?

You can make a lighter version by using an air fryer, but the coating may be slightly less crispy than deep‑fried.

What toppings go well with these tacos?

Toppings like shredded cabbage, radishes, pico de gallo, cilantro, avocado, and lime work really well.

How do I keep the shrimp crispy?

Fry the shrimp in small batches and drain them on paper towels so they stay crisp before assembling.

Can the sauce be made ahead?

Yes, bang bang sauce can be made up to two days before and kept chilled.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fun, flavorful meal that combines crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce wrapped in warm tortillas. They’re perfect for casual dinners, customizable to your taste, and quick enough for weeknight cooking. Enjoy crafting these tacos and making them your own!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating