Craving something crunchy, creamy, spicy, and downright addictive? The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-style experience right at home. Inspired by the legendary Bonefish Grill classic, these tacos combine crispy shrimp coated in a bold, creamy chili sauce, tucked inside soft tortillas, and topped with refreshing slaw. Whether you’re planning a taco Tuesday, a summer cookout, or just a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts—flavor, simplicity, and crowd-pleasing satisfaction.
You’ll learn not only how to make the signature bang bang sauce from scratch but also how to fry or air-fry shrimp to perfection. We’ll walk through ingredient options, cooking tips, variations, nutrition advice, and answers to the most asked questions so you can make this dish your own.
What Is a Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe?
Understanding the Bang Bang Flavor Trend
The “Bang Bang” name has become synonymous with irresistibly bold and creamy flavor—usually involving chili and mayonnaise-based sauces. Popularized by Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer, the flavor made its way into homes across America thanks to its crave-worthy balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
Check out our Keto Crock Pot Crack Chicken Recipe for even more crispy tips!
Origins of Bang Bang Sauce
The sauce itself is a blend of mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, sriracha, and sometimes honey or vinegar to balance the richness. It’s creamy with a spicy punch and perfectly coats crispy fried shrimp, turning a simple protein into a flavor bomb.
How it Became a Taco Staple
Over time, food bloggers and home chefs began wrapping this spicy shrimp in tortillas, combining it with cabbage slaw for crunch and acidity. The result? A fusion taco that’s become a go-to for anyone who loves seafood and bold flavors. The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe has now carved its place as one of the most popular and easy-to-make seafood taco variations out there.
What Makes These Tacos Stand Out
From their eye-catching color to their powerful taste, Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are more than a trend—they’re a flavorful upgrade to any dinner routine.
The Role of Texture, Spice & Creaminess
The textural contrast between the crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crunchy slaw keeps your palate intrigued with every bite. Add the warmth of a freshly grilled tortilla, and you’ve got the perfect handheld meal that’s indulgent yet fresh.
Core Ingredients for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Essential Ingredients Breakdown
To make the best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe, the magic starts with simple, everyday ingredients. You don’t need anything fancy, but quality makes all the difference.
Shrimp Selection and Prep
Start with medium or large shrimp—peeled, deveined, and tail-off. Fresh or frozen both work, just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely. Patting them dry helps them crisp up better during cooking.
For that crave-worthy crunch, toss the shrimp in a light coating of cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs. Want that crispy shrimp taco bite every time? Season the shrimp with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper before breading.
Bang Bang Sauce Components (Mayo, Chili, Sriracha, etc.)
Here’s the heart of this dish: the sauce. You’ll need mayonnaise (regular or light), Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Want it milder? Reduce the sriracha. Like it hotter? Add more. A little rice vinegar adds tang, while honey can mellow the spice if needed.
Recommended Tortillas and Slaw
Use small flour tortillas—they hold the sauce and fillings well. Corn tortillas are fine too, but they tend to break under the saucy filling.
Pair your tacos with cabbage slaw—shredded red or green cabbage mixed with lime juice, a touch of mayo, and chopped cilantro. This taco slaw gives a zesty crunch that balances the creamy shrimp.
Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs
Gluten-Free, Keto, and Dairy-Free Options
For gluten-free tacos, go with corn tortillas and use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs. Want to keep it keto? Skip the breading and air fry the shrimp with spices only. For a dairy-free option, use vegan mayo in the sauce—it tastes just as rich and works perfectly.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Preparing the Shrimp: Fry, Air Fry, or Bake
Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to cook the shrimp. You’ve got three easy methods to choose from, depending on your kitchen setup and health goals.
Marinating and Breading Tips
First, toss your cleaned shrimp in a simple marinade—try buttermilk with garlic powder and a dash of hot sauce. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes. Then, coat them in seasoned cornstarch or panko for that irresistible crunch.
If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed and dry before breading to avoid soggy results.
Achieving Crisp Without Grease
- To fry: Heat oil (vegetable or canola) to 350°F. Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on a paper towel.
- To air fry: Spray shrimp with oil and cook at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- To bake: Place shrimp on a lined baking tray, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes until crispy.
Choose your method based on convenience or dietary needs—each delivers crispy shrimp you’ll love.
Assembling the Perfect Taco
You’ve cooked your shrimp, the sauce is ready, and the slaw is chilled—now comes the fun part: putting it all together.
Sauce Tossing Technique
Toss the hot shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce just before serving. Don’t do it too early or they’ll lose their crisp. Coat evenly for maximum flavor in every bite.
Layering the Taco for Texture
Warm your tortillas slightly so they’re flexible. Add a bed of slaw, top with the saucy shrimp, then drizzle extra sauce if you like. Finish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Check out our Chicken Pita Recipe for even more crispy tips!
Bang Bang Sauce Recipe – The Creamy Kick
Classic Bang Bang Sauce Formula
The soul of any Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe is the sauce. It’s creamy, spicy, and just a little sweet—the perfect contrast to crispy shrimp and cool slaw. Fortunately, you can whip it up in under 5 minutes with pantry staples.
Proportions & Blending Instructions
Here’s the tried-and-true bang bang sauce formula:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or rice vinegar (optional, for balance)
To make the sauce, simply stir all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. For a lighter version, use low-fat or avocado mayo. If you’re looking to reduce the spice, start with just one tablespoon of sriracha and add more later if needed.
This spicy mayo for shrimp tacos delivers the heat without overwhelming your taste buds.
Adjusting Spice and Sweetness Levels
Some like it hot, others don’t. The beauty of this sauce is how easy it is to tweak. Want it sweeter? Add a bit more chili sauce or honey. Need extra heat? Toss in a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper.
Storage and Reuse Tips
Sauce Variations for Other Dishes
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge—it’ll last about 5 to 7 days. This flavorful spread isn’t just great for tacos; it’s perfect as a dipping sauce for fries, drizzled over grilled chicken, or mixed into rice bowls.
Don’t miss our Bang Bang Chicken if you’re craving even more bang for your bite!
Flavor Variations on the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Tropical-Inspired Tacos: Add Mango or Pineapple Slaw
While the classic Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe is a knockout, adding a tropical twist can take it to a whole new level. Sweet fruits like mango and pineapple pair beautifully with the spicy sauce, offering a burst of freshness in every bite.
Coconut-Mango Slaw Recipe
To create a tropical taco slaw, combine:
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or red)
- ½ cup diced fresh mango
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- A pinch of sea salt
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Toss everything together and chill for at least 10 minutes before serving. This adds a fruity crunch that’s perfect with the crispy shrimp.
Asian Fusion Tacos with Wasabi or Kimchi
Want to bring a bold Asian twist to your tacos? You can mix wasabi into the bang bang sauce for an extra zing, or add a spoonful of kimchi on top of your shrimp for fermented heat and crunch.
Balancing Heat and Umami
Wasabi provides a sharp, clean heat while kimchi brings a deep, fermented kick. Both pair surprisingly well with the creamy base of the bang bang sauce, offering layers of flavor without complicating the recipe.
These variations are perfect for folks who like to keep things fresh and unexpected. Whether you go tropical or lean into fusion, there’s no wrong way to reinvent your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe—just delicious options.
Discover great ideas like our Kimchi Fish Taco remix for another twist on tradition.
Tips to Make Restaurant-Quality Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos at Home
Best Tools and Utensils to Use
To get the most out of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe, using the right tools really helps. While you don’t need a chef’s kitchen, a few smart upgrades can go a long way in making your tacos taste like they came from a trendy food truck.
Air Fryer vs Deep Fryer: Pros & Cons
- Air fryer: Healthier, cleaner, and quick. It delivers crispy shrimp without a lot of oil. Great for weeknight dinners.
- Deep fryer: For ultimate crunch and that restaurant-style finish, nothing beats a deep fry. But it’s messier and more time-consuming.
Don’t have either? A heavy-bottom skillet works just fine. Just remember—hot oil, small batches, and don’t overcrowd!
Also, a good mixing bowl, sharp knife, and silicone spatula are essential for prepping slaw and sauce. Use tongs for tossing shrimp to keep them coated and crispy.
Plating and Serving Tips
Let’s be real—we eat with our eyes first. Even the most flavorful taco feels flat if it looks sloppy.
Garnishes That Elevate Flavor
Top your tacos with chopped green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, or even a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce. A wedge of lime on the side not only looks great but adds zing. And don’t forget—a warm tortilla makes all the difference. Wrap them in foil and warm in the oven before serving.
Nutrition, Storage, and Meal Prep Tips
Caloric and Nutritional Breakdown
When made as outlined, a single Bang Bang Shrimp Taco comes in at around 150–200 calories depending on your tortilla size and how much sauce you use. Three tacos typically offer:
- Protein: 18–24g
- Fat: 14–18g
- Carbs: 20–30g
- Calories: 450–600
Want a lighter shrimp taco option? Swap out full-fat mayo for light or Greek yogurt in the sauce, and bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of deep frying.
Healthy Swaps Without Losing Flavor
- Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb version
- Try coconut aminos in place of soy sauce (if using it for slaw)
- Opt for homemade slaw without sugar or mayo-based dressings
Make-Ahead Instructions
Life gets busy, so why not prep ahead? You can easily make the bang bang sauce up to 5 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight jar in the fridge.
How to Store Shrimp, Sauce, and Slaw Separately
- Shrimp: Cooked shrimp stays fresh in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
- Sauce: Airtight container, fridge-safe, good for up to a week.
- Slaw: Store undressed if possible. Toss with dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
That way, when taco cravings hit—you’re already halfway there!
Pairings and Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Perfect Side Dishes: Cilantro Rice, Corn Salad, etc.
A winning Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe doesn’t stop at the tacos. Pairing your dish with the right sides transforms it into a full-on feast. Light, fresh, and colorful dishes work best here.
Consider serving your tacos with:
- Cilantro lime rice: The citrus notes play off the creamy heat of the tacos.
- Mexican street corn (elote): Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s a bold side that can hold its own.
- Avocado mango salad: A refreshing tropical option that cools your palate after each spicy bite.
- Simple black beans or pinto beans: These balance the richness of the shrimp and sauce perfectly.
All of these complement the spicy shrimp taco recipe without stealing the spotlight.
Drink Pairings: Margaritas or Sparkling Water
Now, let’s talk drinks. If you’re feeling festive, a classic margarita, mango mojito, or even a spicy Paloma makes a great companion. For something lighter, go for sparkling lime water or hibiscus iced tea. These beverages help cool things down and bring a crisp contrast to the bold flavors.
Making It a Taco Bar Night
Hosting friends or family? Turn your meal into a DIY taco bar. Offer different slaws, sauces, and toppings so everyone can build their own tacos. It’s fun, interactive, and stress-free for the host. You can even prep different proteins like crispy tofu or grilled chicken to mix things up!
FAQs About Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
What is Bang Bang sauce made of?
Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, spicy blend of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Some versions include honey or rice vinegar for added balance. It’s known for its tangy-sweet flavor and rich texture, making it the perfect complement for crispy shrimp.
Can you make Bang Bang Shrimp without frying?
Absolutely! You can use an air fryer or oven to cook the shrimp. Just toss them with oil and your seasoning, then air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes or bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes. These methods cut down on oil but still give you that golden crisp.
How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp?
It’s mildly spicy, thanks to the sriracha in the sauce. But the mayo and chili sauce balance out the heat. You can always adjust the spice level to your liking—just reduce the sriracha or skip it altogether for a milder version.
Can you use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before breading or cooking. Moisture can prevent them from crisping up properly.
What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise in Bang Bang sauce?
If you’re avoiding mayo, try Greek yogurt or vegan mayo. Both deliver a creamy texture and work well with the other ingredients in the sauce. Just keep the proportions the same.
How do you keep shrimp crispy in tacos?
Toss shrimp in sauce just before serving—never earlier. This keeps the coating from getting soggy. Also, serve on warm tortillas and avoid overstuffing, which can trap steam and soften the shrimp.
Conclusion:
If you’re after a taco that brings the heat, the crunch, and a whole lot of flavor, this Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s quick to make, ridiculously satisfying, and easy to customize—whether you like it spicy, tropical, or low-carb.
From its creamy sweet chili sauce to the crispy shrimp and zesty slaw, each bite is a flavor bomb wrapped in a warm tortilla. Better yet, the recipe is flexible. You can air-fry the shrimp, go gluten-free, prep everything ahead, or even host a taco bar night that’ll have your guests begging for the recipe.
So go ahead—ditch the takeout and bring restaurant vibes straight to your kitchen. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a night you want something delicious and homemade, Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos deliver every single time.