If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and savory pasta, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the answer. Inspired by the famous Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp, this homemade version combines bold flavors with a restaurant-quality texture.
Originally popularized as an appetizer, Bang Bang Shrimp gained recognition for its sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce. Now, by pairing it with pasta, this dish becomes a full-fledged meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The best part? You can customize it to suit your spice tolerance, texture preferences, and dietary needs.
One of the key elements of this recipe is its unique Bang Bang Sauce—a blend of sweet chili sauce, sriracha, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Sweet chili sauce adds mild heat and sweetness, while sriracha intensifies the spice. The crispy shrimp is coated in panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch, creating a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and pasta. If you’re a fan of spicy shrimp pasta dishes, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even meal prep. Plus, it pairs well with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Whether you love seafood, crave bold flavors, or just want to try a new pasta recipe, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a must-try!
Ingredients Breakdown
Sauce Ingredients & Their Role
A great Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta starts with the perfect Bang Bang Sauce. This creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce is what gives the dish its signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
- Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base, making the sauce rich and smooth.
- Sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and mild heat; you can adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
- Sriracha – Provides the kick of heat that balances the sweetness. You can substitute it with hot sauce if needed.
- Honey – Enhances the sweetness and helps mellow out the spice.
- Lime juice – Adds freshness and acidity, preventing the sauce from being overly heavy.
The balance between these ingredients is key. If you prefer a spicier version, increase the sriracha. If you want a milder taste, reduce the sriracha and add more honey. For an even deeper understanding of how sriracha sauce enhances flavors, check out its history and uses in different cuisines.
Shrimp Coating & Cooking Ingredients
For the crispy shrimp, a light yet crunchy coating is essential. Here’s what goes into it:
- Shrimp – The star ingredient. It’s best to use fresh, large shrimp, but frozen shrimp works if properly thawed. Learn more about the best ways to cook shrimp in this shrimp cooking guide.
- Cornstarch & Panko breadcrumbs – The combination of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs ensures a super crispy exterior.
- Egg – Helps the coating stick to the shrimp.
- Garlic powder, salt, black pepper – Essential seasonings for flavor.
- Vegetable oil – Best for frying, but you can also use an air fryer for a healthier option.
To achieve extra crispiness, coat the shrimp evenly and fry in hot oil. Alternatively, you can try air-frying using this air-frying shrimp tutorial.
Pasta & Additional Ingredients
The pasta you choose plays a significant role in how the dish turns out. Here are your options:
- Spaghetti or linguine – These traditional choices allow the sauce to cling to every strand.
- Alternative pastas – If you want a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower pasta. Check out this low-carb pasta alternatives guide.
- Butter & garlic – These ingredients enhance the pasta’s flavor.
- Green onions & parsley – Fresh herbs add color and a bright, slightly peppery taste.
Choosing the right pasta is crucial for a well-balanced dish. For more on how different pastas interact with sauces, explore this guide on the best pasta pairings.
Preparing the Sauce
The Bang Bang Sauce is what makes this dish truly special. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors that coat the pasta and shrimp beautifully. Here’s how to make it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients – You’ll need mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.
- Whisk Together – In a medium-sized bowl, whisk all the ingredients until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Adjust the Flavor – Taste the sauce and modify it to suit your preference:
- Want it spicier? Add more sriracha.
- Prefer it sweeter? Increase the honey.
- Need more tanginess? Squeeze in extra lime juice.
Pro Tips for the Best Sauce
- Make it ahead – Letting the sauce sit for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together.
- Use it for other dishes – This sauce isn’t just for pasta! Try it as a dip for crispy shrimp, chicken tenders, or even roasted vegetables.
- Store leftovers – Keep extra sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
For more inspiration on how sweet chili sauce enhances dishes, explore its different applications here.
Cooking the Shrimp
The key to crispy, flavorful shrimp is the right coating and cooking technique. Follow these steps to achieve a perfect golden crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation (optional). Check out this step-by-step guide on how to devein shrimp.
- Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for a flavorful base.
- Coat the Shrimp
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Cornstarch
- Bowl 2: Beaten egg
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs
- Dip each shrimp in cornstarch, then into the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to help the crumbs stick.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Fry to Perfection
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Tips for Extra Crispy Shrimp
- Maintain oil temperature – If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
- Use an air fryer for a healthier option – Set to 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Find an easy air-frying shrimp tutorial for reference.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan – Cook in batches to keep the shrimp crispy.
Once the shrimp is cooked, set them aside while you prepare the pasta.
Cooking the Pasta & Bringing It All Together
Now that the Bang Bang Shrimp is perfectly crispy, it’s time to cook the pasta and combine all the elements into a delicious, creamy dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your choice of spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to help blend the sauce if needed.
- Sauté the Garlic
- In the same skillet used for the shrimp, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss the Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter until evenly coated.
- If the pasta seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Add the Shrimp and Sauce
- Place the crispy shrimp on top of the pasta.
- Pour the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over everything.
- Toss gently until the shrimp and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Pro Tips for the Best Texture
- Don’t overcook the pasta – Aim for a perfect al dente texture. Learn more about the best pasta pairings for sauces to find the ideal match.
- Use warm sauce – If the sauce has been sitting, slightly warm it before mixing to prevent clumping.
- Add extra creaminess – Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or cream cheese for an even richer texture.
With the pasta and shrimp fully combined, it’s time for the finishing touches!
Serving & Garnishing
Presentation is key when serving Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. A well-garnished plate enhances both flavor and visual appeal, making this dish look as irresistible as it tastes.
Final Touches Before Serving
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped green onions for a mild, peppery bite.
- Add fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add Extra Flavor
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the pasta to brighten the flavors.
- Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for additional heat.
- A light dusting of grated Parmesan can add a savory, umami boost.
- Plate for the Best Presentation
- Use shallow pasta bowls for an elegant look.
- Arrange shrimp evenly on top so each bite has a balance of crispy shrimp, creamy sauce, and pasta.
- Garnish just before serving to keep the shrimp crisp.
Side Dish Pairings
- Garlic Bread – A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Crisp Green Salad – A light, refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
For more creative plating ideas, check out these garnishing techniques on Pinterest. Now, your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is ready to enjoy!
Expert Tips & Variations
Customizing Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta allows you to tailor the dish to your dietary preferences, spice tolerance, and available ingredients. Below are some expert tips and delicious variations.
Healthier Alternatives
- Baked Shrimp: Instead of frying, bake the breaded shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air-Fried Shrimp: Cook shrimp in an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes for a crispy texture without excess oil. Try this air-frying shrimp tutorial for extra guidance.
- Greek Yogurt Sauce: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich sauce.
Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Options
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini to make the dish keto-friendly. Explore more low-carb pasta alternatives.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a grain-free option, serve the shrimp and sauce over steamed cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free Panko: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain crispiness without wheat.
Extra Spicy Version
- Increase the Heat: Add extra sriracha, a dash of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Spicy Garlic Butter: Sauté garlic with chili oil before tossing the pasta.
- Ghost Pepper Option: If you love extreme heat, try adding a small amount of ghost pepper sauce.
Adding Vegetables for More Texture
- Bell Peppers: Sautéed red or yellow bell peppers add a sweet crunch.
- Mushrooms: A great umami boost that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Snap Peas or Broccoli: These add freshness and balance the richness of the dish.
By tweaking the ingredients and methods, you can create a personalized version of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta that suits your taste and dietary needs!
Storage & Reheating Tips
Properly storing and reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta ensures that you maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Since the dish contains both crispy shrimp and a creamy sauce, reheating it correctly is essential to avoid sogginess.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta and shrimp separately in airtight containers. The sauce-covered pasta can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while the shrimp should be eaten within 2 days for optimal crispiness.
- Freezing: While pasta and sauce freeze well, fried shrimp does not retain its crispy texture when frozen. If needed, freeze the pasta and sauce for up to 2 months, and cook fresh shrimp when reheating.
Best Ways to Reheat
- Reheating Pasta on the Stovetop (Recommended)
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pasta with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Stir gently until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reheating Shrimp for Crispiness
- Oven Method: Place shrimp on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Air Fryer Method: Reheat shrimp at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving shrimp, as it will make them rubbery.
Keeping the Dish Fresh
- Reassemble Before Serving: If storing components separately, mix reheated pasta with sauce first, then top with warmed shrimp.
- Freshen Up the Sauce: Stir in a little extra lime juice or sweet chili sauce to revive the flavors.
With these tips, your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta will taste just as delicious the next day!
FAQs Section
To help you make the best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, here are answers to some of the most common questions.
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water for 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure the coating sticks properly. For a detailed guide on shrimp preparation, check out this shrimp cooking guide.
2. What pasta works best with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Traditional choices like spaghetti or linguine work well because they hold onto the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, try angel hair pasta or even rice noodles. To explore more pasta pairings, see this best pasta pairings guide.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bang Bang Sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using.
4. How can I make this dish less spicy?
- Reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
- Add extra honey to balance the heat.
- Stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream for a milder, creamier texture.
5. Can I air-fry the shrimp instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Coat the shrimp as usual, then air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method keeps the shrimp crispy with less oil. For an easy visual guide, check out this air-frying shrimp tutorial.
6. What’s the best way to keep the shrimp crispy after cooking?
- Place cooked shrimp on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent steam buildup.
- Avoid covering the shrimp immediately, as trapped heat will soften the coating.
- If needed, reheat shrimp in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
7. Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?
Definitely! Try substituting with:
- Chicken – Use bite-sized pieces and follow the same breading and frying steps.
- Tofu – Coat cubes in cornstarch and air-fry or pan-fry until crispy.
- Salmon – Lightly bread and pan-sear for a unique twist.
8. How do I prevent my sauce from being too thick or too thin?
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little warm water or milk to thin it out.
- If it’s too thin, stir in more mayonnaise or let it sit for a few minutes to thicken naturally.
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta: The Ultimate Creamy & Spicy Recipe
Crispy, spicy, and creamy—this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of bold flavors and comforting textures. Inspired by the popular Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp, this dish pairs crunchy, breaded shrimp with a rich, sweet and spicy Bang Bang Sauce tossed over tender pasta.
This easy-to-make meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or special occasions. The sauce, made with sweet chili sauce, sriracha, mayonnaise, honey, and lime juice, delivers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Meanwhile, the panko-crusted shrimp adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Whether you prefer traditional spaghetti, low-carb zucchini noodles, or gluten-free pasta, this recipe is versatile and customizable. Plus, you can swap out shrimp for chicken, tofu, or salmon to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
For the sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For the shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the pasta:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat with vegetable oil.
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Set aside.
Season shrimp with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Coat each shrimp in cornstarch, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Cook shrimp in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
Add shrimp to the pasta, then pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss gently until well combined.
Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Learn more about why panko works best here.
- Let the shrimp rest for 5 minutes after frying to keep them crispy before adding them to the pasta.
- Reserve pasta water – It helps loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
Ingredient Substitutions
- For a healthier version – Bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying.
- For a lighter sauce – Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- For a gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make the sauce ahead of time – Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat shrimp separately – To maintain crispiness, warm shrimp in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.
- Store pasta and shrimp separately – This prevents the shrimp from becoming soggy.
