Name: Crispy Shrimp Tacos That Will Elevate Taco Night
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Shrimp (peeled); 1 cup Buttermilk (or substitute with milk and vinegar); 1 cup Gluten-Free Flour; 1 teaspoon Paprika (adjust for warmth); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adjust for heat); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (can substitute with Greek yogurt); 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce; 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste); 8 pieces Tortillas (corn for gluten-free option); 2 cups Shredded Cabbage (or lettuce); 1 medium Avocado (optional)

As I prepped my kitchen for taco night, the warm, spicy aroma wafted through the air, reminding me of coastal getaways and the joy of indulging in crispy goodness. Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are my secret weapon for transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a fiesta that leaves everyone craving more. With their crunchy exterior and creamy, zesty bang bang sauce, these tacos are not only quick to make but also customizable to suit your palate. Tired of fast food? This recipe is your answer, crafted to delight both the home-chef and the busy bee. In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a plateful of shrimp tacos that make weeknight dinners a breeze. Curious about how you can whip up these delicious bites? Let’s dive in!

Why are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these tacos offers a burst of flavors, combining the crunch of panko-coated shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
Quick & Easy: In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap shrimp for crispy tofu or chicken, and mix up the toppings to match your mood.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a casual family dinner or entertaining friends, these tacos are a sure-fire hit for everyone!
Gluten-Free Option: With simple ingredient swaps like using corn tortillas, you can easily accommodate gluten-free guests without sacrificing taste.
Pair these scrumptious Honey Garlic Shrimp or some refreshing sides for an even more delightful feast!

Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – The star of the dish, choose large peeled shrimp for perfect texture.
• Buttermilk – A tenderizing marinade that infuses flavor; substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar if needed.
• Gluten-Free Flour – Use as the base for breading, perfect for gluten-free shrimp tacos.

For the Seasoned Breading
• Paprika – Adds color and smoky flavor; adjust quantity for extra warmth.
• Garlic Powder – Provides depth and aroma; a pantry staple in most kitchens.
• Onion Powder – Enhances savory notes; use in moderation for a balanced taste.
• Cayenne Pepper – Offers heat; adjust to suit your spice preference.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out flavors; don’t skip this ingredient!
• Black Pepper – A classic seasoning that complements the dish beautifully.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – For that irresistible crunch; regular breadcrumbs work too if necessary.

For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce; Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a delightful sweetness; can be replaced with honey and vinegar mix.
• Sriracha – Adjust this spicy kicker according to your heat level for the bang bang sauce.

For Assembling the Tacos
• Tortillas – Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option; they serve as the perfect wrap.
• Shredded Cabbage – For crunch and freshness; lettuce works fine as an alternative.
• Avocado – Optional, but highly recommended for extra creaminess.

Ready to create those mouth-watering shrimp tacos that will transform your dinner? Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp
Start by soaking the large peeled shrimp in buttermilk for 30 minutes. This tenderizing step infuses the shrimp with flavor while ensuring a juicy bite. Place the shrimp in a large bowl, pouring enough buttermilk to cover them completely. Let them sit in the refrigerator during this time, allowing the flavors to merge beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In a separate bowl, mix together gluten-free flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will elevate the shrimp’s flavor profile, creating a delicious crust once fried. Ensure all spices are evenly distributed, as this blend is key to delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Step 3: Dredge and Coat the Shrimp
Once the shrimp have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour, ensuring even coverage. Then, dip the floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before coating them in panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to help them adhere for that irresistible crunch!

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of neutral oil, like canola or vegetable oil, over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, as hot oil is essential for achieving crispy Bang Bang Shrimp. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip to fry the other side until crispy. Once done, remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice tolerance to customize the heat level. This delicious sauce will complement the crispy shrimp perfectly, enhancing the overall flavor of your tacos.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, lay out the tortillas and fill them with a generous amount of shredded cabbage for crunch. Add the crispy fried shrimp on top, then drizzle with the tangy bang bang sauce. If desired, top with sliced avocado for added creaminess.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with lime wedges on the side. The zesty lime juice will elevate the flavors, giving every bite a bright finish. Gather your family or friends, and enjoy these tantalizing tacos that will truly elevate your taco night!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in advance is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can soak the shrimp in buttermilk and marinate for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor, while the seasoned flour and bang bang sauce can be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the sauce in a sealed container to preserve its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dredge the marinated shrimp, fry them until golden brown, assemble the tacos, and drizzle with the freshly made bang bang sauce. This makes your mealtime fuss-free, so you can indulge in quality homemade cuisine without the stress!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is hot enough; this results in crispy shrimp rather than greasy ones.
Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan: Fry the shrimp in small batches to maintain temperature, ensuring even cooking and a crispy texture.
Spice Adjustments: Customize the heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to match your taste preferences—spicy or mild!
Prep Ahead: Make meal prep easy: Whip up the sauce and chop toppings in advance, but fry the shrimp just before serving for maximum crunchiness.
Gluten-Free Options: Don’t compromise on taste: Swap regular flour and tortillas for gluten-free alternatives to create crispy shrimp tacos that everyone can enjoy!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Keep the shrimp separate from the tacos to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze shrimp, place it in a resealable bag with as much air removed as possible. Best used within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating: To reheat, place shrimp in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Assembly: For the best quality, assemble the tacos fresh rather than storing them fully made. Enjoy a perfect meal with these delightful shrimp tacos!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Elevate your taco night with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the crispy, spicy flavor of these mouth-watering tacos.

Mexican Street Corn: This grilled corn dish, tossed in creamy mayo and spices, adds a sweet and smoky element that pairs beautifully.
Fresh Garden Salad: A colorful salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette brings refreshing contrast to the richness of the tacos.
Pico de Gallo: The bright, fresh flavors of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a zesty punch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole made with ripe avocados enhances the dish’s flavor and adds an indulgent touch.
Margaritas: A refreshing, citrusy margarita balances the heat of the bang bang sauce, making for a delightfully festive pairing.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with a vibrant salsa offer a fun and shareable appetizer for guests to enjoy before diving into the tacos.
Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-flavored rice provides a creamy, comforting base that contrasts nicely with spicy shrimp flavors.
Dessert Tacos: Try filling taco-shaped desserts with fruit and cream for a sweet ending to your flavorful meal, elevating your dining experience.

With these delightful options, you’ll create a memorable feast that showcases your amazing Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos while impressively delighting your family and friends!

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these exciting twists to enhance your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos experience!

Crispy Tofu: Substitute shrimp with crispy tofu for a delightful vegetarian option. Simply pan-fry marinated tofu cubes until golden for that satisfying crunch.
Chicken Upgrade: Swap shrimp for bite-sized boneless chicken pieces. Season and fry them using the same breading method for a tasty twist on the original!
Corn Tortillas: For a gluten-free alternative, replace traditional flour tortillas with corn tortillas. They provide that perfect touch while keeping it inclusive for everyone.
Zesty Lime Crema: Drizzle a lime-infused Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of the bang bang sauce for a refreshing, tangy complement.
Extra Crunch: Add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips on top of your tacos for a delightful crunch. The added texture will elevate your taco game!
Spice it Up: Incorporate jalapeños or diced chilies for an extra kick. These toppings will bring your tacos to a whole new level of flavor and heat!
Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor by adding a mix of fresh cilantro or parsley for a fresh burst of color and taste. It enhances the overall experience with every bite.
Guacamole Delight: Swap in guacamole instead of avocado slices for a creamy texture that is packed with flavor. Perfect for avocado lovers wanting an extra treat!

Enhance your meal by serving with sides like Mexican street corn or pair with a refreshing drink, such as margaritas. And if you love shrimp dishes, consider trying these incredible Honey Garlic Shrimp or delightful Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using large, peeled shrimp. They fry up beautifully, giving that perfect bite and ensuring they’re not lost in the taco.

How can I properly store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
To keep your shrimp at its best, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Be sure to keep the shrimp separate from the tortillas to maintain their crispy texture.

Can I freeze the Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze the shrimp! Simply place cooled, cooked shrimp in a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. For best results, use them within 1 month. When ready to enjoy, just reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until they’re nice and crispy again.

How do I adjust the spice level in the Bang Bang sauce?
Very! If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of sriracha you use. Start with just a teaspoon, mix it in, and taste. You can always add more to reach your desired heat level! This flexibility makes it easy to customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos to suit any palate.

Are there gluten-free alternatives for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make these delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos gluten-free by substituting regular flour with gluten-free flour and opting for corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. This way, everyone can indulge without worry!

What should I pair with my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for a complete meal?
I often serve these tacos alongside Mexican street corn or a fresh garden salad to add a nice contrast in flavors and textures. A refreshing drink, like a margarita or a fruity mocktail, rounds out the perfect taco night too!