Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

This homemade Bang Bang Shrimp delivers the perfect contrast of crispy coating and bold, saucy flavor in every bite. The shrimp are fried until golden and crunchy, then tossed in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy bang bang sauce that clings beautifully to each piece. It’s an irresistible combination that works just as well for casual dinners as it does for entertaining.

One of the best things about Bang Bang Shrimp is how versatile it is. While it’s delicious on its own, it truly shines when turned into Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Tucked into warm tortillas and drizzled with extra sauce, the shrimp instantly upgrade any taco night and bring restaurant-quality flavor straight to the table.

Bang Bang Shrimp became widely known thanks to popular restaurant versions like those from Bonefish Grill, where it’s often served as an appetizer, and Cheesecake Factory, where it’s sometimes called Dynamite Shrimp. At its core, the dish is all about texture and balance: crispy battered shrimp paired with a rich, creamy sauce that hits sweet, tangy, and spicy notes all at once.

The signature bang bang sauce is surprisingly simple, made with just three main ingredients: mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Together, they create a smooth, slightly sweet sauce with a gentle heat that can easily be adjusted to taste. A little extra hot sauce can be added for those who enjoy a stronger kick.

Bang Bang Shrimp can be served in countless ways, making it a reliable recipe to keep on hand. As an appetizer, it’s perfect straight from the bowl, garnished with chopped chives and served with toothpicks. For a heartier option, the shrimp can be spooned into tacos, where the built-in sauce doubles as a creamy topping.

Beyond tacos, this dish works beautifully in rice bowls or tossed with pasta. Served over fluffy white rice with fresh toppings, it becomes a satisfying main meal. Mixed with pasta and finished with a squeeze of lime juice, it transforms into a bold, flavor-packed dinner that feels both comforting and exciting.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

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This homemade Bang Bang Shrimp delivers the perfect contrast of crispy coating and bold, saucy flavor in every bite. The shrimp are fried until golden and crunchy, then tossed in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy bang bang sauce that clings beautifully to each piece. It’s an irresistible combination that works just as well for casual dinners as it does for entertaining.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

Bang Bang Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 cup corn starch
• Peanut oil or Canola oil for frying shrimp

Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 Tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
• 3 tsp Sriracha hot sauce, or to taste

Taco Toppings:

• 8 to 12 Small White Corn Tortillas, or Hard Taco Shells
• 3 cups Purple or Green Cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, coarsely chopped

Instructions

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all Bang Bang sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, stirring to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate while you heat the oil.
3. Remove the shrimp from the marinade one at a time, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat each shrimp fully in cornstarch, gently tapping off the excess, then place on a platter.
4. Heat about 1½ inches of oil in a Dutch oven or deep pot to 375°F. Fry the shrimp in 3 batches, cooking for 2½–3 minutes until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through, turning halfway if needed. Use a strainer or slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel–lined plate and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. Transfer the warm shrimp to a bowl and drizzle with half of the Bang Bang sauce. Toss gently to coat, then let rest for about 10 minutes so the shrimp absorb the sauce.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

1. Lightly toast the corn tortillas on a griddle or skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or char them briefly over a gas flame if desired.
2. Fill each tortilla with your favorite toppings, add 2–3 Bang Bang shrimp per taco, and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

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