Welcome to your new favorite Taco Tuesday sensation! These homemade Dynamite Shrimp Tacos, generously topped with crisp cabbage and drizzled with a rich, spicy Bang Bang Sauce, are incredibly simple to prepare yet deliver an unforgettable culinary experience. Imagine succulent shrimp, fried to golden-brown perfection, then tossed in a creamy, sweet, and perfectly spicy sauce before being nestled into warm tortillas. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, making these the tastiest spicy shrimp tacos you’ve ever had – and you made them right at home!
There’s a reason why Bang Bang Shrimp and Dynamite Shrimp are such beloved restaurant appetizers; they strike a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creamy and crunchy. This taco rendition takes that irresistible flavor profile and elevates it into a complete, satisfying meal. The vibrant purple cabbage and fresh green cilantro not only add a refreshing crunch and bright herbaceous notes but also make these tacos visually stunning – truly Instagram-worthy! Your friends and family will be amazed at the restaurant-quality taste and presentation, never guessing how effortlessly they came together in your own kitchen.
If your palate craves a kick, you’re in for a treat! Beyond these fiery shrimp tacos, explore other exciting spicy creations. Consider my Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp for a lighter take on the classic, savor the unique textures of Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice, or indulge in the sticky, sweet heat of Honey Sriracha Baked Chicken Breast. Each recipe promises a burst of flavor to tantalize your taste buds.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Ultimate Shrimp Tacos
These Dynamite Shrimp Tacos aren’t just another weeknight meal; they’re an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this recipe is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire:
- Unmatched Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Ever craved the famous Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos from Bonefish Grille or the Dynamite Shrimp Tacos from Cheesecake Factory? This recipe captures that exact delicious essence, allowing you to recreate those iconic flavors in the comfort of your home, often for a fraction of the cost. Get ready to impress!
- Effortless Meal Preparation: Streamline your cooking process by preparing components in advance. The luscious Bang Bang Sauce can be whipped up days ahead, and your ingredients can be prepped and sliced. When hunger strikes, simply fry the shrimp and assemble these glorious tacos for a quick yet gourmet meal.
- A Symphony of Flavors and Textures: This dish is a masterpiece of culinary contrasts. The inherent sweetness and succulence of perfectly fried shrimp are beautifully complemented by the creamy, tangy, and spicy Bang Bang Sauce. Add to that the refreshing crunch of thinly sliced cabbage, the creamy richness of avocado, and the fresh zest of cilantro, and you have a harmonious blend that is utterly impressive and deeply satisfying. Every bite is an adventure for your taste buds.
- Customizable to Your Spice Preference: Whether you prefer a mild zing or a fiery explosion, the spice level of the Bang Bang Sauce can be easily adjusted to your liking. Add more sriracha for extra heat, or reduce it for a gentler flavor. This adaptability ensures everyone at your table can enjoy their tacos just the way they like them.
- Visually Stunning Presentation: With vibrant purple cabbage, verdant cilantro, and golden-brown shrimp coated in a creamy orange sauce, these tacos are a feast for the eyes before they even reach your mouth. They’re perfect for entertaining or simply brightening up your dinner table.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Dynamite Shrimp Tacos
Crafting these sensational tacos requires a few key components, each playing a crucial role in building the layered flavors and textures. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
For the Irresistible Dynamite Shrimp
- Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp, ideally peeled and deveined with the tails removed. This ensures easy eating and a consistent texture. Fresh shrimp is always ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed completely) works wonderfully too. The size of the shrimp matters, as larger shrimp remain juicier and provide a more substantial bite.
- Buttermilk: This is a secret weapon for tenderizing the shrimp and allowing the dredge to adhere beautifully. The mild acidity of buttermilk helps to break down the proteins slightly, resulting in incredibly tender, flavorful shrimp.
- Shrimp Dredge: A simple yet effective mixture of all-purpose flour and corn starch creates that signature crispy, golden coating. The flour provides structure, while the corn starch ensures an extra crisp texture, preventing sogginess.
- Salt & Ground Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp and the coating. Adjust to taste.
- Oil: A high-heat neutral oil, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, is crucial for deep frying. It allows the shrimp to cook quickly and achieve that desired crispy exterior without imparting unwanted flavors.
For the Creamy & Spicy Dynamite Sauce
- Mayonnaise: The base of our rich and creamy sauce. While any good quality mayo works, a Japanese mayonnaise like Kewpie adds an extra layer of umami and richness for an even more authentic flavor.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This provides the essential sweetness and a mild background heat, balancing the spice from the sriracha and adding complexity to the sauce.
- Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice is non-negotiable! It brightens the entire sauce, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise and complementing the other flavors with its zesty acidity. Bottled lime juice simply won’t achieve the same vibrant taste.
- Sriracha: The star of the show for heat! This popular hot sauce allows you to customize the spice level. Start with the recommended amount and add more gradually until you reach your perfect level of fiery bliss.
For the Vibrant Toppings & Assembly
- Tortillas: Small white corn tortillas are traditional and provide a lovely authentic flavor and texture. However, feel free to use your favorite flour tortillas or even larger corn tortillas if you prefer a more substantial taco. Warming them briefly before serving makes them pliable and enhances their flavor.
- Cabbage: Thinly sliced purple cabbage isn’t just for show; it adds a fantastic, refreshing crunch and a beautiful pop of color that contrasts wonderfully with the shrimp and sauce. Green cabbage can also be used.
- Avocado: Thinly sliced ripe avocado lends a luxurious creaminess that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp and crunchy cabbage, adding a rich, smooth counterpoint.
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro offers a burst of bright, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green garnish. It’s a classic pairing with tacos and really lifts the dish.
- Lime Wedges: For garnish and a final squeeze of fresh lime juice, which can awaken all the flavors just before eating.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Craft Dynamite Shrimp Tacos at Home
Creating these sensational shrimp tacos is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result:
- Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp for Tenderness. Begin by placing your peeled, deveined, and tail-off large shrimp in a bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for tenderizing the shrimp and helping the subsequent coating adhere perfectly, resulting in juicy, flavorful results.
- Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Dredge Mixture. While the shrimp marinates, prepare your dry coating. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, corn starch, salt, and ground pepper. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution. This mixture will give your shrimp that characteristic crispy exterior.
- Step 3: Fry the Shrimp to Golden Perfection. Heat a generous amount of high-heat oil (such as canola or peanut oil) in a deep pot or Dutch oven to approximately 375°F (190°C). Remove the marinated shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the shrimp evenly in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp. Fry until they are curled, lightly golden, and cooked through, typically 2-3 minutes per batch. Once fried, transfer the shrimp to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil. Set aside.
- Step 4: Whisk Together the Zesty Dynamite Sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, fresh lime juice, and sriracha hot sauce. Whisk all the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Taste and adjust the sriracha to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
- Step 5: Sauce the Crispy Shrimp. In a large bowl, add the fried shrimp. Pour about ¼ cup of the freshly prepared Dynamite Sauce over the shrimp. Gently toss the shrimp to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Let the sauced shrimp rest for about 5 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Step 6: Assemble Your Flavorful Tacos. Warm your corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable. To assemble, place a small amount of thinly shredded purple cabbage onto each tortilla. Next, add a generous portion of the sauced Dynamite Shrimp. Top with thinly sliced avocado. Drizzle additional Bang Bang Sauce over the shrimp and toppings as desired.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve Immediately. For the perfect finish, garnish your assembled tacos with fresh chopped cilantro and a lime wedge. Serve these incredible Dynamite Shrimp Tacos immediately while they are still warm, allowing everyone to savor the crispy, creamy, and spicy delight!
Expert Tips for Mastering Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Achieving restaurant-quality Dynamite Shrimp Tacos at home is within reach with these helpful tips and tricks:
- For a Gluten-Free Alternative: If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour in the dredge mixture with an equal amount of corn starch. The corn starch alone will provide a wonderfully crisp coating.
- Choose the Right Oil for Frying: Always use a high-heat oil like peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil for deep frying. These oils have a high smoke point, which is essential for achieving a perfectly crispy crust without burning or imparting off-flavors.
- Monitor Oil Temperature Closely: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is key to perfectly fried shrimp. Use a clip-on thermometer to ensure your oil stays around 375°F (190°C). If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy; too hot, and the coating will burn before the shrimp cooks through.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot when frying. Cook the shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure each piece fries evenly to a beautiful golden crisp. Once fried, transfer them to a wire rack placed over paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Dredge Just Before Frying: To prevent the coating from becoming soggy, only dredge the shrimp in the flour and corn starch mixture immediately before you drop them into the hot oil. This ensures maximum crispiness.
- Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, typically just 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn opaque and pink. Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery, detracting from the overall texture of your tacos.
- Warm Your Tortillas: For maximum flexibility and flavor, toast your corn tortillas briefly in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 15-30 seconds per side, or until they are soft and slightly charred. This makes them less likely to break when filled and enhances their flavor.
- Smart Storage for Leftovers: If you anticipate having leftovers, it’s best to store the cooked shrimp (without sauce) and all the other taco components (cabbage, avocado, tortillas, and sauce) separately. This preserves the freshness and texture of each ingredient.
- Prepare the Sauce Ahead: The delicious Dynamite Sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen even further. Give it a good stir before using.
- For the Perfect Sauce Drizzle: To achieve that professional, restaurant-style drizzle of Bang Bang Sauce, scoop the prepared sauce into a plastic zip-top bag. Snip off a small corner of the bag, and gently squeeze the sauce in an elegant zigzag pattern over your assembled tacos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dynamite Shrimp Tacos
Bang Bang Shrimp is a phenomenally popular appetizer found at Bonefish Grille, known for its crispy fried shrimp tossed in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce. Dynamite Shrimp, offered at establishments like The Cheesecake Factory, is a very similar dish. Both feature perfectly crispy shrimp coated in an irresistible sweet and spicy dipping or coating sauce, making them highly addictive. This taco recipe brings that beloved flavor profile into a complete meal.
While the deep-frying method outlined in this specific recipe yields the crispiest and most authentic texture for the Dynamite Shrimp, you can certainly use an air fryer for a lighter alternative. However, the coating and crispness might vary. For optimal air fryer results, I recommend checking out my dedicated Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, which is specifically designed for that cooking method.
Absolutely! If you choose to use raw frozen shrimp, it is imperative to thaw them completely before you begin with the marination process. Pat them dry thoroughly after thawing to ensure the buttermilk and dredge adhere properly, and to prevent excess water from splattering in the hot oil during frying.
For the best results with leftovers, it is always recommended to store all the components of your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos separately. The sauced spicy shrimp will maintain its quality in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and briefly cook the shrimp until they are just warmed through and re-crisped. Then, assemble your fresh tacos with the remaining toppings and enjoy!
You can freeze the cooked, sauced shrimp for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm the frozen shrimp in a skillet with a little hot oil until heated through. Be cautious not to overcook them, as the texture may not be as crispy as fresh, but the flavor will still be delicious. Toss with a fresh batch of sauce if desired and assemble your tacos as directed.
These spicy dynamite tacos are hearty enough on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside Best Grilled Vegetables for a healthy complement, or add more texture with Spicy Salmon Crispy Rice. For a refreshing contrast, a light and vibrant salad like my Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad would be an excellent choice.
Explore More Incredible Shrimp Recipes
If you’ve loved the versatility and deliciousness of shrimp in these tacos, you’ll be thrilled to discover more ways to enjoy this popular seafood:
- Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp: A simple yet elegant dish bursting with zesty and savory flavors.
- Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp: Crispy, sweet, and tropical – a perfect appetizer or light meal.
- Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp: Recreate this beloved takeout classic with sticky, sweet, and crunchy perfection.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti: A comforting pasta dish with succulent shrimp in a rich, cheesy sauce.
- Mango Shrimp Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring sweet mango and juicy shrimp.
I genuinely hope you thoroughly enjoy every recipe I share with you, especially this utterly delicious Dynamite Shrimp Tacos recipe. I encourage you to try it, savor every bite, and share your experience with friends and family!
If you give this recipe a try and love it as much as I do, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below to let me know! Don’t forget to use my hashtag to share your delicious recreations with me on Instagram. You can also follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST for all my latest social posts and exciting new recipes. Your support means the world!
Easy Dynamite Shrimp Tacos
Mariam Ezzeddine
10
40
50
4 servings
Ingredients
For Dynamite Shrimp
- 1 ½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail off
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup corn starch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- Oil, to deep fry
For Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 teaspoon sriracha hot sauce
For Toppings
- 8-10 small white corn tortillas
- 1 cup purple cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium avocado, thinly sliced
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges, to garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl with shrimp add the buttermilk and marinate for at least an hour.
- In a shallow dish combine the ingredients for coating; flour, corn starch, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture evenly and deep fry the shrimp in batches until curled and lightly golden. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl combine; mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha sauce. Mix well.
- Add ¼ cup of prepared sauce over the fried shrimp and toss well. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- To assemble the tacos, fill the tortillas with shredded cabbage, add the shrimp, and avocado slices and drizzle the sauce over the tacos.
- Garnish the tacos with cilantro and lime wedges to serve while it is still warm.
Notes
- To make this gluten free, eliminate the flour and use all corn starch to dredge the shrimp.
- Use a high heat oil such as peanut oil or canola oil to fry the shrimp.
- Use a clip on thermometer to ensure that the oil temperature stays around 375 degrees F.
- Fry the shrimp in small batches and let them drain on paper towels until you are ready to assemble the tacos.
- If cooking in batches, dredge the shrimp just before frying, so the coating doesn’t become soggy.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp as they will become rubbery.
- Toast the corn tortillas in a dry skillet to make them easier to work with.
- If you anticipate having leftovers, wait to assemble the tacos and store leftover ingredients separately.
- The Dynamite Sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance.
- For the perfect drizzle of the bang bang sauce, scoop the sauce into a plastic zip-top bag. Snip off a corner and gently squeeze the sauce onto the Dynamite Shrimp Tacos.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 76g |
Protein: 9g |
Fat: 16g |
Saturated Fat: 3g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 8mg |
Sodium: 727mg |
Potassium: 488mg |
Fiber: 8g |
Sugar: 8g |
Vitamin A: 398IU |
Vitamin C: 20mg |
Calcium: 101mg |
Iron: 3mg