Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful dish inspired by the popular appetizer! Juicy, crispy shrimp are tossed with spaghetti in a rich, slightly sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce made with creamy mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold & Flavorful – A perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Restaurant-Quality – Inspired by Bonefish Grill’s famous Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to your preference.
• One-Pan Simplicity – Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp:

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Cornstarch (for a crispy coating)
• Salt & black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil (or butter for sautéing)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
• Honey (optional for sweetness)
• Lime juice
• Garlic (minced)

For the Pasta:

• Spaghetti (or linguine)
• Butter
• Heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
• Parmesan cheese (for extra richness)
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water – Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain & Set Aside – Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and set pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Coat Shrimp – Toss shrimp with cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Cook Shrimp – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. Mix Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and minced garlic.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Sauté Garlic – Melt butter in the same pan, then sauté additional garlic if desired.
2. Add Sauce & Pasta – Pour in the Bang Bang sauce, reserved pasta water, and heavy cream (if using). Toss with spaghetti to coat.
3. Add Shrimp – Return shrimp to the pan and mix everything together.
4. Garnish & Serve – Top with green onions, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Bang Bang Chicken Pasta – Swap shrimp for crispy or grilled chicken.
• Low-Carb Version – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Extra Creamy Sauce – Add more heavy cream or a splash of coconut milk.
• Spicier Kick – Increase sriracha or add extra red pepper flakes.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the mayo-based sauce.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw before cooking for the best texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work great, but any pasta will do.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best flavor, toss shrimp in the sauce just before serving.

How do I make this dish lighter?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and serve over zucchini noodles.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I add veggies to this dish?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.

What’s the best way to keep the shrimp crispy?

Toss shrimp in cornstarch and cook in a hot pan without overcrowding.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild-medium spice level but can be adjusted to taste.

Can I use store-bought Bang Bang sauce?

Yes! But homemade sauce has the best fresh flavor.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is creamy, spicy, and bursting with flavor! With crispy shrimp, a rich sauce, and perfectly coated pasta, this dish is sure to impress. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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