Name: Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos You'll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (Fresh or frozen, thaw if frozen.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; light spray oil Cooking Oil (For crisping in the air fryer.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute with Greek yogurt.); to taste tablespoons Sriracha Sauce (Increase for more heat.); 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Fresh lime juice is best.); 8 pieces Tortillas (Corn tortillas are traditional.); 2 cups Shredded Cabbage (Can substitute with coleslaw mix.); 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions (For garnish.)

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When I first tasted Bang Bang Shrimp in a bustling little seafood joint, I was captivated by the perfect blend of crunch and spice. Fast forward to today, and I’ve transformed that unforgettable flavor into an easy recipe for Irresistible Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Imagine sinking your teeth into warm tortillas filled with golden-brown shrimp, topped with a creamy, zesty sauce that adds just the right kick. Whether you’re gearing up for Taco Tuesday or hosting a casual gathering, these tacos are a total crowd-pleaser.

What I love most is how quick and healthy they are—thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy that crispy texture without the guilt of traditional frying. Plus, they’re customizable! From swapping in chicken or tofu to adjusting the spice level in the sauce, you can make these tacos your own. Let’s dive into this delightful fusion of flavors that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Crave Irresistible Tacos

Flavor Explosion: Each bite packs a punch with crispy shrimp and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making dinner a breeze for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
Customizable Goodness: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, and tailor the sauce to your heat preference—endless options await!
Wholesome and Healthy: Air frying means less oil, allowing you to indulge in guilt-free tacos that are lower in calories than traditional versions.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for Taco Tuesdays or any fiesta, these tacos are sure to impress your friends and family with their delightful flavors and textures. Enjoy them with a side of Air Fryer Apple fries for a complete meal!

Irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Essential protein base; use fresh or frozen shrimp and be sure to thaw if frozen.
Salt & Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust to your taste for the perfect seasoning.
Cooking Oil – Ensures shrimp crispen well in the air fryer; a light oil spray works best.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess for the sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Sriracha Sauce – Adds a spicy kick; feel free to increase the amount for more heat.
Lime Juice – Balances the flavors with acidity; opt for fresh lime juice for the best taste.

For the Tacos

Tortillas – Wrap for the tacos; any type works, but corn tortillas are traditional for authenticity.
Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with coleslaw mix if desired.
Chopped Green Onions – For garnish and added flavor; they bring a fresh, vibrant touch.

Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, get ready to create these irresistible crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that are bound to become a favorite in your home!

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your shrimp will cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown crispy texture.
Toss the shrimp in a bowl with salt and pepper until they’re well coated. This simple seasoning helps to enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp beautifully.
Whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in another bowl for the bang bang sauce. Adjust the level of spice according to your preference—the more Sriracha, the spicier it gets!
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Give them a light spray with cooking oil to help them crisp up perfectly while cooking.
Cook the shrimp for around 6 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook!
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable. This step makes filling your tacos much easier!
Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of shredded cabbage in each tortilla followed by the crispy shrimp.
Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the shrimp, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve immediately. The moment of serving is where all those delightful flavors come together!

Optional: Serve with extra lime wedges for a fresh, zesty squeeze.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Irresistible Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Make these tacos your own by exploring exciting swaps and flavor enhancements that will elevate your dining experience.

Chicken Swap: Use diced cooked chicken for a hearty alternative; it pairs deliciously with the bang bang sauce.
Tofu Substitute: Swap in firm tofu; press and marinate for additional flavor before air frying to achieve a crispy texture.
Spicy Mayo: Combine mayo with extra sriracha for an added zing; this variation brings an addictive heat that spice lovers will adore.
Garlic Aioli: For a richer flavor, replace the bang bang sauce with garlic aioli; the creamy blend adds a gourmet touch.
Fresh Toppings: Elevate your tacos with avocado slices or diced tomatoes; these fresh additions bring color and taste to your meal.
Coleslaw Mix: Instead of plain cabbage, use a pre-made coleslaw mix; it adds extra crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances the spices.
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the shrimp seasoning for a delightful depth; it infuses the dish with a warm, resonant taste.
Heat Levels: Adjust Sriracha levels in the sauce to tailor the heat to your liking; make it as mild or fiery as your palate desires.

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bang bang sauce and chop the cabbage up to 3 days in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can season the shrimp and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply air fry the shrimp for about 6 minutes until crispy, warm your tortillas, and assemble the tacos. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade tacos on the table with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, it’s best to avoid mixing them with the toppings until serving.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 4-5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Bang Bang Sauce: Keep the sauce separate in a small container in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you can drizzle it fresh over your tacos when ready to enjoy the irresistible crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

What to Serve with Irresistible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Elevate your dining experience with perfect sides that bring out the vibrant flavors of these irresistible tacos.

Mexican Rice: A seasoned side dish that offers a comforting and flavorful contrast to the bold shrimp and spicy sauce.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy, rich, and refreshing, this avocado dip adds a creamy touch that complements the crunchiness of the tacos.
Zesty Corn Salad: With a mix of sweet corn, jalapeños, and cilantro, this salad adds a delightful crunch and freshness that mirrors the texture of the tacos.
Pineapple Salsa: Fruity and refreshing, this salsa beautifully balances the spice of the bang bang sauce, bringing a perfect hint of sweetness.

Pair your tacos with a refreshing drink such as Margaritas or Cerveza to add a fun fiesta vibe to your meal. For a sweet ending, try serving with No-Bake Key Lime Pie, as its zingy flavor harmonizes wonderfully with the tacos. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure shrimp are placed in a single layer in the air fryer. This promotes even cooking and maximum crispiness, key for the irresistible crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Cook in Batches: If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in smaller batches. This allows the air to circulate freely, ensuring all shrimp come out perfectly golden.
Perfect Sauce Balance: Taste and adjust the bang bang sauce as you go. If you love spice, add more Sriracha; if you want it milder, dial it back or add a touch of honey for sweetness.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and lime juice elevate the flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Warm Tortillas: Gently warm your tortillas before assembling. This not only makes them easier to fold but also enhances their flavor and texture, making your tacos even more enjoyable.

Irresistible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a slight sheen—fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry for the best texture. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over, as these indicate they may not be fresh.

How should I store leftovers?
You can store your irresistible crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, I recommend storing them separately from the toppings and tortillas until you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Can I freeze the shrimp, and how?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze the shrimp, place the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the air fryer for 4-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy.

What should I do if the shrimp turn out soggy?
If your shrimp turn out soggy, it might be due to overcrowding in the air fryer. To avoid this in the future, ensure that shrimp are arranged in a single layer with some space between them for proper air circulation. Cooking them in smaller batches can also help maintain that delightful crispiness you desire!

Is there a way to make the sauce less spicy?
Very much so! If you prefer your bang bang sauce on the milder side, you can reduce the amount of Sriracha you use. Alternatively, you can mix in a little honey or even Greek yogurt to balance out the heat and add a creamy touch. Tailor the sauce to suit your tastes—don’t hesitate to explore the flavors!

Can I make these tacos pet-friendly?
To make a pet-friendly version, omit the Sriracha and any spicy ingredients from the bang bang sauce. You can use plain cooked shrimp and serve them in soft tortillas or even just plain cabbage for a crunchy treat your furry friend might enjoy. Always consult your vet regarding what is safe for your specific pet!