As I set foot into my kitchen, the irresistible scent of sizzling shrimp fills the air, igniting my culinary passion. Today, we’re diving into a delicious and easy recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos—perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings! These gluten-free tacos not only come together in a flash, but they also promise to impress even the most discerning foodies in your life. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch combined with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce and fresh toppings, creating a delightful medley of flavors. Are you ready to elevate Taco Night? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a must-try?
Crispy Delight: These tacos feature perfectly fried shrimp, offering an addictive crunch that’s hard to resist.
Bold Flavors: The zesty bang bang sauce combines sweet and spicy notes that elevate every bite, making your taste buds dance with joy.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up a gourmet meal in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos are a feast without the fuss!
Customizable: Whether you’re in the mood for crispy tofu or a twist on protein, these tacos adapt easily, ensuring everyone at your table is satisfied.
Showstopper Appeal: Impress your family or friends with an appealing dish that’s sure to spark conversation, just like my Coconut Shrimp Sweet or Fish Tacos Cilantro.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – The star of the taco, delivering a delightful seafood flavor; swap with crispy tofu or chicken if you prefer non-seafood options.
- Buttermilk – Soaks the shrimp for tenderness and flavor; you can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a crispy coating for the shrimp; use gluten-free flour to maintain a gluten-free diet.
- Paprika – Brightens the flavor and adds color; smoked paprika can be used for a bolder taste.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses savory depth; fresh minced garlic can replace it for a more robust flavor.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the overall flavor; note that fresh onion changes the texture but adds a nice freshness.
- Cayenne Pepper – Delivers a spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives the shrimp that irresistible crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko isn’t available.
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Complements the sauce with sweetness and depth; feel free to make a homemade version for extra flavor.
- Sriracha – Adds a wonderful heat to the sauce; build up the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
For Assembling
- Tortillas – Holds all the goodness together, whether flour or corn-based; opt for corn tortillas to keep it gluten-free.
- Shredded Cabbage – Brings a crunchy texture and freshness; substitute with lettuce or a slaw mix if desired.
- Avocado – Lends creaminess and balances the flavors; you can skip it if you’re not a fan.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that will elevate your dinner game!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Step 1: Soak Shrimp
Begin by placing the cleaned shrimp in a medium bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes, which will tenderize the shrimp and infuse them with flavor. This step is crucial to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture before the crispy coating goes on.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This seasoned mixture will create a flavorful crust on your shrimp. Set this aside as you continue with the next steps; it’s important for the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Step 3: Coat Shrimp
Once the shrimp have marinated, remove them from the buttermilk and allow the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture to coat thoroughly. Then, dip them back into the buttermilk briefly and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs for that irresistibly crispy texture. Set aside on a plate while preparing to fry.
Step 4: Fry Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. Carefully place the breaded shrimp in batches into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make Bang Bang Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir well to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce, adjusting the sriracha to your desired level of heat. This delightful sauce is what elevates your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with its creamy texture and spicy kick, bringing everything together beautifully.
Step 6: Assemble Tacos
To assemble your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, take a warm tortilla and add a generous handful of shredded cabbage as the base. Next, place several pieces of the crispy shrimp on top, drizzling with the homemade bang bang sauce to give it that flavorful finish. If desired, add slices of avocado for an extra creamy touch.
Step 7: Serve
Finally, serve your assembled Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty burst of flavor. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, showcasing the crispy shrimp juxtaposed with creamy sauce and fresh toppings, creating a delicious meal that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the bang bang sauce and chop the toppings (like shredded cabbage and avocado) up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. For the shrimp, you can coat them in the seasoned flour and panko mixture up to 24 hours ahead. Just be sure to keep them covered in the fridge to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and assemble your tacos. You’ll have a delightful dinner that tastes just as amazing as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Heat Check: Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A small piece of batter should sizzle immediately when added.
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Avoid Sogginess: Fry shrimp in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to a loss of crispiness in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
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Flavor Adjustments: Tweak the bang bang sauce according to your taste by starting with a milder amount of sriracha and gradually increasing it if you prefer more heat.
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Double-Dipping Technique: For an extra crispy coating, after the initial dredging in the seasoned flour, consider dipping the shrimp back into the buttermilk again before coating with panko.
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Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh produce for toppings, like freshly chopped cabbage and ripe avocado, makes a big difference in flavor and texture. This elevates your taco experience!
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Personality Touch: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins, such as crispy tofu or chicken, in place of shrimp to offer variety in your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity and add a personal touch to these delicious tacos!
- Tofu Swap: Replace shrimp with crispy battered tofu for a delightful plant-based alternative that’s just as satisfying.
- Chicken Twist: Use fried or grilled chicken instead of shrimp, giving a hearty twist while maintaining that crispy goodness.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the sriracha in the bang bang sauce to suit your spice tolerance—more for heat, less for a milder flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Opt for smoked paprika in place of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier taste that complements your crispy shrimp perfectly.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap the shrimp in crisp lettuce leaves instead of tortillas, serving them as fresh bites.
- Avocado Alternatives: Swap avocado for creamy guacamole or a dollop of sour cream for an enticing layer of flavor.
- Taco Bar: Set out a taco bar with additional toppings like mango salsa or jalapeños, encouraging creativity with each taco assembly.
- Sweet and Spicy Kick: Top your tacos with pickled jalapeños to add an extra punch of heat and a hint of tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
With these variations, your Taco Night can become an unforgettable culinary adventure! If you’re looking for more inspirations, be sure to check out my Coconut Shrimp Sweet for another delightful dish or try out the delicious Fish Tacos Cilantro for more fresh flavors. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Transform your dinner into a festive feast with delicious sides and drinks that perfectly complement these flavorful tacos.
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Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and spicy corn creation adds a vibrant crunch that pairs beautifully with the crispy texture of the shrimp tacos.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and tangy, this side dish balances the heat of the tacos while enhancing your meal with its refreshing flavor.
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Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and rich, homemade guacamole provides a cooling contrast to the spicy bang bang sauce, ensuring every bite is delightful.
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Margaritas: The perfect refreshing drink, margaritas elevate your dining experience with their zesty citrus flavors that complement the tacos beautifully.
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Pico de Gallo: Fresh and zesty, this chunky salsa adds a burst of brightness and refreshing crunch that enhances your taco experience.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette can add a soothing element to your meal, balancing the heat from the tacos.
Feel free to mix and match these sides and drinks for a full-fledged fiesta that will delight your family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Room Temperature: Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos fresh, as they taste best right after assembly. If left out, consume within 2 hours for safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, it’s best to store them separately from the toppings and tortillas.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Assemble tacos fresh before serving!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen shrimp work perfectly. Opt for large, raw shrimp for the best bite—just ensure they are deveined and ideally peeled. If you’re avoiding seafood, crispy tofu or chicken can be wonderful substitutes for that satisfying texture.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can keep your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain that wonderful crunch, it’s best to store the shrimp separately from the toppings and tortillas. Just assemble them fresh before serving for the ultimate taste experience!
Can I freeze the fried shrimp?
Yes! Freezing is a great option. I recommend spreading the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet first; freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they’re crispy again.
What if my shrimp aren’t crispy when I fry them?
No worries! If your shrimp turn out soggy, it might be due to oil that’s not hot enough. To ensure the perfect fry, heat the oil until it’s shimmering before adding the shrimp, and don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in small batches for that amazing crispy texture that defines Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
Are there any allergen considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Absolutely! These tacos can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and corn tortillas. Plus, for those avoiding dairy, swap out buttermilk with a mixture of plant-based milk and vinegar. Keep in mind to always check the labels on sauces like sweet chili and sriracha, as some brands may contain allergens. Always feel safe adapting recipes to meet your dietary needs!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos That Make Weeknight Dinners Exciting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the cleaned shrimp in a medium bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove shrimp from buttermilk, dredge in seasoned flour mixture, dip back into buttermilk, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the breaded shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown; transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha; stir to achieve a smooth sauce.
- To assemble, take a tortilla, add shredded cabbage, crispy shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and avocado if desired.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
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