These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are crispy, creamy, and irresistibly spicy—the perfect spicy shrimp dinner for any night of the week. Tossed in a tangy, creamy sauce and tucked into soft tortillas, they make an easy shrimp taco meal everyone will crave. Serve them with simple sides if you’re wondering what sides go with shrimp tacos—we’ve got ideas below!
Why You’ll Love It
- Crispy shrimp: Fried or baked to golden perfection.
- Bold flavor: Creamy, spicy, and sweet all in one bite.
- Fast: Ready in 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust spice and toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (or baking option)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Love shrimp? Try these Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes for a comforting dinner recipe shrimp that’s just as satisfying.

Instructions
- Prep the shrimp: Pat dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Coat: Dip shrimp into cornstarch, then egg, then panko crumbs.
- Cook: Fry in hot oil (350°F) until golden, about 2–3 minutes per side. For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Taste and adjust heat level.
- Toss: Coat cooked shrimp in the bang bang sauce until evenly covered.
- Assemble tacos: Warm tortillas and layer with slaw, sauced shrimp, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Want something different? Swap tortillas for crispy wonton cups to make fun wonton shrimp tacos perfect for parties or appetizers!
Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce.
- Meal prep tip: Keep shrimp and sauce separate until ready to serve for easy shrimp taco meal prep.
- Air fryer option: Cook shrimp at 390°F for 8–9 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Extra crunch: Add pickled red onions or shredded carrots for texture.
What To Serve With Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Not sure what sides go with shrimp tacos? Here are some simple ideas:
- Cucumber Carrot Salad
- Mexican-style rice or cilantro-lime rice
- Grilled corn or elote salad
- Fresh pineapple salsa
- Tortilla chips with homemade guacamole
Dressing For Shrimp Tacos
The creamy bang bang sauce doubles as a delicious dressing for shrimp tacos. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some lime crema (1/4 cup sour cream + 1 tbsp lime juice) on top.
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Keep cooked shrimp and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm shrimp in a skillet for 2–3 minutes; toss with sauce just before serving.
- Freeze: Not recommended once coated in sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before coating.
Are these tacos spicy?
They’re mildly spicy—add more sriracha if you want more heat.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely! Baking or air frying gives a lighter crunch without extra oil.
More to Try
- Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Marinated Grilled Baby Octopus
- Thai Peanut Sauce
- Crispy Baked Salmon
- Sheet Pan Dinner Ideas for Fall
Conclusion
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos combine crunchy shrimp, a creamy spicy sauce, and fresh toppings for a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for foods to make with shrimp or planning a fun taco night, this recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect to share.
