Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a bold, creamy, and spicy dish inspired by the popular appetizer found in many Asian-fusion restaurants. It combines succulent, crispy shrimp tossed in a signature sweet-and-spicy Bang Bang sauce, layered over perfectly cooked pasta for a truly satisfying meal. This dish is indulgent, packed with bold flavors, and versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

In this guide, we’ll take you through every detail to make the best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta from scratch. From crispy shrimp to the creamy sauce and perfect pasta pairings, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees an impressive, restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. The shrimp is perfectly crispy, the sauce is creamy and zesty with just the right amount of heat, and the pasta ties everything together for a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to customize to suit your spice tolerance and dietary needs, and it comes together in under an hour, making it great for busy weeknights or hosting friends. The balance of textures, from the crispy shrimp to the silky sauce, makes every bite a delight. Plus, it’s a one-bowl meal that feels indulgent but can be adjusted for a healthier twist.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 580
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon lime juice

For the Pasta:

12 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water (for thinning the sauce)

Optional Toppings and Garnishes:

Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Sliced green onions
Extra lime wedges
Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Set Up the Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
Bread the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then dredge each piece in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure an even coating. Set the breaded shrimp on a plate.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.
Reserve half the sauce for tossing with the shrimp and the other half for drizzling over the pasta.

4. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Drain the pasta and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

5. Assemble the Pasta and Shrimp

In the same skillet used for frying the shrimp (wipe it clean), heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water or chicken broth. Toss to coat.
Stir in half of the Bang Bang sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.

6. Add the Shrimp and Serve

Toss the fried shrimp in the remaining Bang Bang sauce until fully coated.
Plate the pasta in bowls or on plates, and top each portion with the saucy shrimp.
Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

Shrimp is the star protein in this dish, offering a mild sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy, creamy sauce. Large shrimp are ideal because they’re easy to handle and offer a meatier bite. Make sure to remove the shells and devein them for the best texture and appearance.

Bang Bang Sauce

The sauce is the soul of this dish, known for its signature combination of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Sweet chili sauce provides the sweetness, sriracha adds heat, and mayonnaise creates a rich, velvety base. Lime juice adds brightness and balance.

Pasta

Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works best because it holds the sauce well and creates a luxurious, slurp-worthy texture. You can also use rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative.

Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs create a light and crispy coating on the shrimp, ensuring they stay crunchy even when tossed in the sauce.

Technique Tips

Pat the Shrimp Dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the breading sticks properly.
Double Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier coating, repeat the breading process (flour, egg, breadcrumbs).
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F for even frying. If the oil is too hot, the shrimp may burn before fully cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Swap the pasta for tortillas, and serve the shrimp with cabbage slaw and extra Bang Bang sauce.
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl: Serve the shrimp over steamed rice or cauliflower rice, topped with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Appetizer Style: Serve the crispy Bang Bang shrimp on their own with the sauce as a dipping option.

Additional Tips for Success

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading.
Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, spice, or tanginess of the sauce to suit your personal taste.
Make It Ahead: The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep Shrimp Crispy: If you’re making a large batch, keep the fried shrimp warm in a 200°F oven while frying the rest.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and rice noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the shrimp with crispy tofu, cauliflower, or mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Extra Creamy Sauce: Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the sauce for a richer texture.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezer

While the sauce and pasta don’t freeze well, you can freeze the breaded shrimp (before frying) for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to serve.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Bake the Shrimp: Instead of frying, bake the breaded shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the sauce for fewer calories and more protein.
Whole-Grain Pasta: Use whole-grain spaghetti or chickpea pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
Air Fry the Shrimp: Use an air fryer to achieve crispy shrimp with less oil.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Dinner Party: Serve the pasta in a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs, for a show-stopping centerpiece.
Date Night: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a romantic dinner.
Meal Prep: Store the components separately in meal-prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Special Equipment

Large skillet for frying
Medium saucepan for the sauce
Tongs or slotted spoon for frying shrimp
Large pot for cooking pasta

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Reduce or omit the sriracha and use more sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.

2. Can I use precooked shrimp?

Precooked shrimp can work, but the breading won’t adhere as well. For the best results, use raw shrimp.

3. What’s a good substitute for sweet chili sauce?

A mixture of honey and a splash of rice vinegar can mimic the sweet-and-tangy flavor of sweet chili sauce.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or cream cheese to thicken it.

5. Can I use another protein?

Absolutely! Chicken, scallops, or even crispy tofu work well as substitutes for shrimp.

6. Is this dish kid-friendly?

To make it more kid-friendly, reduce or omit the sriracha and use less spicy seasonings.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and satisfying flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. With its crispy shrimp, bold sauce, and comforting pasta, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and elevate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers big on flavor and texture. Try it today and bring a restaurant-quality meal to your kitchen!