Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Taco Night Upgrade

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup tempura batter mix; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste); 6 flour or corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cabbage; Lime wedges for serving

By Jennifer Elisa

September 23, 2025

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Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night is here to elevate your ordinary Tuesday night into a fiesta of flavor! Imagine tender, crispy shrimp dancing in a spicy, creamy sauce, all wrapped up in warm tortillas. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the table faster than you can say “Taco Tuesday.”

Remember those nights when takeout seemed like the only option? Well, say goodbye to that dilemma! These tacos bring restaurant-quality deliciousness straight to your kitchen with just a fraction of the effort. You’ll feel like a culinary genius, and trust me, your taste buds will throw a party.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights
The explosion of flavors from the spicy shrimp and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable meal
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, these tacos will impress anyone at your dinner table
They are versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun get-together with friends

Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp: Use large shrimp for maximum crunch and flavor; fresh or frozen both work well.
Tempura Batter Mix: This helps achieve that signature crispiness; follow package instructions for best results.
Bang Bang Sauce: A mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha gives these tacos their signature kick; adjust spiciness to taste.
Tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas work great; warm them up before serving for added softness.
Shredded Cabbage: Adds crunch and freshness; use green or purple cabbage based on your preference.
Lime Wedges: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors; don’t skip this essential garnish!

For the Sauce:

Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and helps balance out the heat of the sriracha.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and depth; it’s what makes bang bang sauce so irresistible!
Sriracha: For those who like things spicy; adjust according to your heat tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by thawing your shrimp if they’re frozen. Pat them dry with paper towels—nobody likes soggy shrimp!

Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine tempura batter with water as per package instructions. You want it smooth but not too runny—like your favorite sitcom character’s awkward moments!

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp into the tempura batter until fully covered. Shake off excess batter like you’re shaking off bad vibes after a long day.

Step 4: Air Fry Those Bad Boys

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the battered shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy—don’t forget to flip halfway through!

Step 5: Whip Up Your Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Taste-test it like you’re judging a cooking show—you know you want it just right!

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm up your tortillas and layer them with shredded cabbage first (it catches all that juicy goodness), followed by crispy shrimp. Drizzle generously with bang bang sauce and serve with lime wedges.

Transfer everything to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for that perfect finishing touch. Now you’re ready for taco night that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—and thirds!

You Must Know

Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos bring a delightful twist to taco night, combining crunch, flavor, and a hint of spice
These tacos are not only easy to prepare but also packed with fresh ingredients that make every bite memorable
Perfect for casual dinners or impressing guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your shrimp in a mouthwatering mix of spices while preheating your air fryer. Once the shrimp is coated, air fry until crispy. This method ensures evenly cooked shrimp that remains juicy and flavorful, making every taco a delight.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different sauces like sriracha mayo or chipotle aioli. Add toppings such as avocado slices or mango salsa to elevate your tacos and make them truly unique!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place the shrimp back in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 375°F to regain their crispiness without drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your shrimp are completely dry before coating them with breadcrumbs for optimal crispiness
Use fresh herbs in your toppings for an extra punch of flavor
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this makes sure each piece cooks evenly and gets that perfect crunch

Sometimes I whip up these Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos when friends drop by unexpectedly, and I swear they vanish faster than I can say “taco Tuesday!” The compliments just keep coming!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

To make Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, gather shrimp, flour, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, and spices like paprika and garlic powder. You’ll also need mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice for the bang bang sauce. Fresh tortillas and toppings such as slaw or avocado complete the dish. These ingredients combine to create a deliciously crispy taco that is perfect for any night.

How long does it take to cook the shrimp in an air fryer?

Cooking the shrimp in an air fryer takes about 8 to 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Make sure to preheat your air fryer before adding the shrimp for optimal crispiness. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. This method keeps the shrimp juicy inside while achieving that irresistible crunch on the outside.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that crispy texture in the air fryer. Follow the same coating and cooking instructions as you would for fresh shrimp.

What can I serve with these tacos?

Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos pair perfectly with various sides. Consider serving them with a simple side salad, chips and guacamole, or Mexican rice to enhance your meal. A refreshing drink like iced tea or margaritas also complements these flavorful tacos beautifully.

Conclusion for Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night

Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos bring a delightful twist to your taco night. With their crunchy texture and bold flavors from the bang bang sauce, they make a perfect meal choice for family dinners or gatherings. The recipe is easy to follow and quick to prepare, making it accessible even for busy weeknights. Enjoy these tacos with your favorite sides for a complete culinary experience that everyone will love!

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