Name: Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, uncooked, peeled, and deveined; 1 cup buttermilk (or milk and vinegar mixture); 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to spice preference); 2 cups oil (vegetable or canola oil); 2 cups lettuce (any type); 1 cup tomatoes, sliced; 8 tortillas flour (or corn for gluten-free option); 1 medium avocado (or Greek yogurt); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 lime juiced and zested; 1 small jalapeño (adjust to spice tolerance); 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (essential for flavor); 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)

While chatting with a friend at a cozy dinner party, I couldn’t help but overhear the excitement as someone mentioned their love for Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. It sparked a culinary inspiration that led me to create the perfect copycat version at home—because who doesn’t love to recreate restaurant favorites? These Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos deliver a crispy and savory explosion of flavor, wrapped snugly in warm tortillas. They’re not just a crowd-pleaser; they also come together in a flash, making them ideal for casual weeknight dinners. Plus, I guarantee they’ll elevate your taco night to new heights with a vibrant cilantro-lime sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp’s spicy sweetness. Are you ready to dive into this delectable journey? Let’s get cooking!

Why are these tacos a must-try?

Crispy, Flavorful Bites: Each taco is packed with crispy shrimp coated to golden perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality flavors without the hassle. Perfect for any busy home cook!
Vibrant Sauce: The zesty cilantro-lime sauce elevates the dish, adding a fresh and creamy contrast that enhances the shrimp’s sweetness.
Versatile Serving: Serve with a side of Mexican street corn salad or pair them with a refreshing margarita for an unforgettable meal experience.
Endless Adaptations: Try substituting shrimp with chicken or adding toppings like avocado for a twist that your family will love! Dive into this vibrant flavor adventure today!

Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• Shrimp – Use uncooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best flavor.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp, but you can substitute with a milk and vinegar mixture if needed.
• Cornstarch – Enables the shrimp to achieve that signature crispy texture; no direct substitutions are recommended for optimal crunch.

For the Sauce

• Mayonnaise – Creamy base for the sauce; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and heat; feel free to adjust to match your spice preference.
• Sriracha – Provides an extra kick; other hot sauces can substitute if needed.

For Frying

• Oil – High smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil works best for frying.

For the Tacos

• Lettuce – Adds a fresh crunch; can use any type you prefer.
• Tomatoes – Offers juiciness and color; substitute with toppings like pico de gallo if desired.
• Flour Tortillas – Perfect wrap for the tacos; corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.

For the Cilantro-Lime Sauce

• Avocado – Contributes creaminess; swap with Greek yogurt if looking for fewer calories.
• Sour Cream – For added richness in the sauce.
• Lime – Fresh lime juice and zest brightens the flavor.
• Jalapeño – Adds a bit of heat; adjust to your spice tolerance.
• Cilantro – Infuses a fresh herbal flavor; essential for that zesty kick!
• Salt – Balances the flavors in the sauce.

Dive into the vibrant experience of making Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos; your taste buds will thank you!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prep Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the uncooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp with buttermilk. Allow the shrimp to soak for about 15 minutes—this will tenderize them and infuse a slight tanginess. After soaking, gently stir to ensure the shrimp are well-coated, preparing them for the subsequent steps.

Step 2: Make Sauce
While the shrimp is soaking, prepare the bang bang sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a separate bowl. Whisk together until the ingredients are well combined and smooth, showcasing a creamy, slightly spicy texture. Set this flavorful sauce aside until it’s time to toss the fried shrimp.

Step 3: Coat Shrimp
Once the shrimp has finished soaking, drain them and transfer to a plate. Sprinkle cornstarch over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Gently shake off any excess cornstarch—this step is crucial to achieving that crispy texture when frying.

Step 4: Fry Shrimp
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add the coated shrimp in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely for that beautiful golden color. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Combine
In a large bowl, gently toss the hot, fried shrimp with the prepared bang bang sauce. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for that signature flavor. This step marries the crispy shrimp with the delicious sauce, ensuring every bite of your Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Prepare Cilantro-Lime Sauce
In a blender, combine an avocado, sour cream, lime juice and zest, jalapeño, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed. This fresh sauce will complement the spicy sweetness of the shrimp perfectly, adding a zesty contrast to your tacos.

Step 7: Assemble Tacos
Warm flour tortillas on a skillet or in the microwave until pliable. Fill each tortilla with the crispy shrimp, then top with crunchy lettuce and juicy tomato slices. Drizzle the homemade cilantro-lime sauce generously over the top, adding a burst of flavor. Your Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are now ready to be enjoyed!

Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Feel free to play around with these variations to make your tacos uniquely yours!

Protein Swap: Change shrimp to chicken tenders for a heartier option. Simply follow the same preparation steps for a delicious twist.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk in place of buttermilk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. This gives a lovely tropical flavor that pairs nicely with the shrimp.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. They won’t compromise the deliciousness of your tacos!
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, add extra Sriracha or finely chopped jalapeños to the sauce. It intensifies the flavor and adds that spicy kick you love!
Texture Boost: Consider adding crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and cilantro as a topping. This adds a fresh, crisp layer to your tacos.
Flavor Infusion: Incorporate smoked paprika into the shrimp coating before frying. It introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the sauce beautifully.
Extra Freshness: Top your tacos with sliced avocado or mango salsa for a refreshing zing. The sweetness of mango perfectly balances the spicy shrimp.
Sweet Chili Glow-Up: Instead of just sweet chili sauce, mix in a tablespoon of lime zest for an extra citrusy burst of flavor that really enhances your sauce.

These delectable tacos are wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to explore and personalize! Each twist can lead to a delightful dining experience, just like our Bang Bang Salmon or Chicken Wonton Tacos. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance to infuse flavor and tenderness. Additionally, prepare the bang bang sauce and the cilantro-lime sauce ahead of time; both can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for about 3 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, wait to coat them in cornstarch and fry them until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your tacos, fry the shrimp fresh, toss them in the sauce, and assemble with your toppings for a delicious meal that feels like a restaurant treat!

What to Serve with Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Pairing these tacos with delightful sides and beverages will make your meal a joyous occasion. Let’s elevate your dining experience!

Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad offers a sweet and savory crunch that perfectly complements the flavors of the tacos. It’s colorful, vibrant, and the perfect sidekick to your meal!
Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro echoes the flavors in the tacos, providing a comforting and aromatic base to soak up those spicy sauces.
Guacamole & Chips: This classic appetizer adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the spicy shrimp. The crispy tortilla chips create a wonderful crunch that pairs beautifully with the smooth dip.
Black Bean Salad: A hearty side that combines protein-rich black beans with fresh diced tomatoes, onions, and corn. Its slightly spicy flavor and hearty texture balance the lightness of the tacos.
Margaritas: Craft a cold, refreshing margarita with lime juice and a hint of sweetness to cut through the richness of the shrimp and sauce. It’s a perfect match for your taco night!
Pineapple Salsa: This sweet and tangy salsa, bursting with tropical flavors, enhances the dish’s savory notes while providing a delightful fresh texture. It’s like a mini-vacation with every bite!

Each of these pairings enhances the experience of enjoying Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, bringing a mindful blend of flavors, textures, and celebrations to your table. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Buttermilk Soak Time: Limit shrimp soaks in buttermilk to 15 minutes; longer can make them too soggy, impacting the final texture.
Oil Temperature: Keep oil at a steady 375°F for even frying; use a thermometer to avoid undercooked or burnt shrimp for your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to maximize crispiness; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy results.
Reheating Wisely: If you have leftovers, bake at 400°F to maintain that perfect crisp; microwaving can make them rubbery.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of Sriracha and sweet chili sauce; customize the heat to suit your preference for the Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

How to Store and Freeze Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. This prevents the shrimp from becoming soggy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake shrimp at 400°F for about 10 minutes to maintain crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it may make them rubbery.
Preparation Ahead: Consider preparing the sauce ahead of time, which can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes assembling your Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos a breeze!

Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for the tacos?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose uncooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp. This ensures that your tacos are filled with juicy, flavorful shrimp that fry to a stunning crispy finish.

How should I store any leftovers?
Very simply! Store any leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep shrimp for up to 2 days and the sauce for up to 3 days. This separation prevents the shrimp from getting soggy.

Can I freeze the shrimp?
Of course! If you want to prepare ahead of time, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just bake them at 400°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness!

What if my shrimp isn’t crispy after frying?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! Ensure your oil temperature is maintained at 375°F throughout frying and avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as this can lead to steam and sogginess. If they’re a little soggy after cooking, try transferring them to a wire rack instead of paper towels to allow airflow.

Are these tacos suitable for gluten-free diets?
The more the merrier! To make these Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos gluten-free, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. They’ll still be delicious and provide that delightful crunch alongside the spicy shrimp!

Can I use an alternative for the jalapeño in the cilantro-lime sauce?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a milder version, you can omit the jalapeño altogether or substitute it with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick. Just remember to adjust based on your heat preference!