Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are the ultimate fusion of zesty, creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors — all tucked into a warm tortilla that makes every bite a flavor-packed delight. Plump shrimp coated in a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, crisp shredded vegetables, and bright cilantro come together in a dish that’s speedy enough for weeknights but exciting enough for special occasions. Trust me, once you serve up these tacos, Taco Tuesday will never be the same!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos so special is how each ingredient plays its part: some add kick, others bring crunch or color, but together, they form a harmony of tastes and textures. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to gather what you need and whip up a meal that tastes like you ordered it at a trendy restaurant.

Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, for a plump, juicy bite.
Olive Oil: Helps the shrimp caramelize beautifully in the pan while keeping them tender.
Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning but crucial for drawing out the natural flavors of the shrimp.
Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for that irresistible bang bang sauce; Greek yogurt works for a lighter swap!
Sweet Chili Sauce: The key ingredient giving the sauce its signature sweet-heat character.
Sriracha: Brings the right amount of spice—add more or less depending on your heat preference.
Honey: Adds balance and a subtle touch of sweetness to the sauce.
Corn or Flour Tortillas: Choose your favorite; corn for a rustic chew, flour for softness.
Shredded Cabbage (green or purple): Provides crunch and a vibrant pop of color.
Shredded Carrots: Adds sweetness and an extra crunch for that perfect slaw.
Chopped Cilantro: Brings a fresh, herby flavor that brightens every bite.
Lime Juice: Lifts the slaw with a burst of citrusy zing.
Avocado (optional): For creamy richness—totally recommended if you’re an avocado fan!
Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime over your tacos just before eating is a must for that finishing touch.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Start by tossing your shrimp in olive oil, salt, and pepper to give them that initial hit of flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high, then cook the shrimp in a single layer for 2 to 3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque, with just a little golden sear on the edges—don’t overcook! Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Up the Bang Bang Sauce

Now for the showstopper: bang bang sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (adjust to your spiciness comfort level), and honey. The result will be creamy and sweet with just enough kick. Taste and tweak if you want a little more heat or a touch more sweetness.

Step 3: Toss Together the Slaw

Crisp, refreshing slaw is the secret to keeping these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos light and balanced. In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage and carrots with a generous squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt. Let it sit while you prep the rest—this gives it time to soften and soak up all that citrus flavor.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

You can’t beat the taste of warm tortillas as the canvas for your tacos. Heat them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side until they’re pliable and just a little toasted. If you’re pressed for time, a quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel works too. Keep them wrapped in a clean towel until ready to assemble.

Step 5: Assemble the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Time for the best part—putting everything together! Lay down some slaw on each tortilla, add a few shrimp, and then drizzle generously with your bang bang sauce. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, add avocado slices if you like, and serve with wedges of lime. The sauce will mingle with the slaw and shrimp, making every bite creamy, spicy, and bright.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Garnishes

You can make these tacos as simple or decked out as you like! Cilantro is a must for freshness, and avocado slices bring extra creaminess. For a little crunch, try adding toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions. And never skip the lime wedges—a juicy squeeze before each bite elevates the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos pair perfectly with so many sides. Think a bright mango salsa, a simple corn salad, or even black beans. If you want something light, whip up a citrusy cucumber salad or some grilled pineapple. A handful of crispy tortilla chips with fresh guac is always a crowd-pleaser too.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting friends, lay out all the components like a taco bar and let everyone build their own Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos—fun and interactive! Or, for more dramatic presentation, serve the tacos in colorful taco holders and sprinkle extra cilantro or pretty radish slices on top. Mini street taco tortillas also make adorable appetizer-sized versions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep everything fresh, store the cooked shrimp, slaw, and bang bang sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The shrimp will stay good for up to 2 days, while the slaw and sauce can last 3–4 days. Tortillas are best stored in their original packaging or wrapped in foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing

Freezing works best for the cooked shrimp—just lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to two months. Avoid freezing the slaw or sauce, as the textures won’t hold up well once thawed. Tortillas can also be frozen if double-wrapped.

Reheating

To reheat shrimp, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave, being careful not to overcook and toughen them. If your tortillas have been stored or frozen, reheat in a skillet or microwave until soft. Assemble with fresh slaw and sauce for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! Just thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water before cooking, then pat dry for best searing.

Is there a way to make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos less spicy?

Definitely—just dial back the sriracha in the sauce, or use a bit more mayo to mellow out the heat. You can always serve extra hot sauce on the side!

Can I grill or air fry the shrimp instead of pan-cooking?

Yes, both methods work beautifully. Grilling adds a smoky char, and air frying gets the shrimp extra crispy without much oil. Adjust the cook time to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best tortilla to use?

Both corn and flour tortillas are delicious options for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Use whatever you love most; corn gives a toasty flavor, while flour is softer and a bit sturdier.

Are there good substitutes for mayonnaise in the sauce?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute—just as creamy with a little added tang!

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are truly one of those meals that turn any day into a celebration, filled with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and happy faces around the table. If you haven’t tried making them at home yet, you’re in for such a treat—simple, speedy, and guaranteed to impress. Go on, bring some bang to your next taco night!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (makes 8 tacos) 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delicious fusion of crispy shrimp, creamy bang bang sauce, and fresh slaw, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon honey

For the Tacos:

8 small corn or flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
½ cup shredded carrots
¼ cup chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 avocado, sliced (optional)
Lime wedges for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet until pink and cooked through.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey.
Prepare the Slaw: Toss cabbage and carrots with lime juice and salt.
Assemble the Tacos: Warm tortillas, then fill with slaw, shrimp, bang bang sauce, cilantro, and avocado.
Serve: Garnish with lime wedges and enjoy!