Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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Warm & Familiar Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines crisp, flavorful shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce—all tossed with tender pasta. I love how this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe feels like a little celebration on your plate without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those meals you can pull together quickly but still impress at lunch or a casual dinner.

Imagine biting into velvety pasta coated in a luscious, slightly sweet and fiery bang bang sauce, while the shrimp offer a subtle crunch and juicy center. You’ll notice how the green onions add brightness with each forkful, making it an all-around winner for those midweek meals when you want comfort and a little kick.

This recipe has been a favorite go-to for weeks because of how approachable it is. From cooking the pasta just right to frying the shrimp until lightly golden, every step is designed to bring out layers of flavor and texture that you’ll want to savor.

Ingredient Breakdown

• Spaghetti (12 oz): The familiar pasta that holds the sauce perfectly; feel free to swap for linguine or fettuccine for a different texture.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Simply essential to enhance the pasta’s natural flavor—never skip this step in the boiling water.
• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Choose fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp; they cook quickly and bring a sweet brininess.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): This creates a delicate, crispy coating when frying—lighter than flour and keeps the shrimp tender inside.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Basic seasonings to bring out the shrimp’s flavor.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons): For frying the shrimp to a perfect golden crisp; can substitute with light olive oil if preferred.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base of the bang bang sauce that balances the heat and sweetness.
• Sweet Chili Sauce (1/4 cup): Adds a tangy, sweet flavor that cuts through the richness.
• Sriracha (2–3 tablespoons): The fiery element that makes this dish signature spicy—adjust to your heat preference.
• Honey (1 tablespoon, optional): Rounds out the sauce with mellow sweetness if you prefer a softer edge on the spice.
• Green Onions (2, sliced): Fresh, sharp, and crunchy garnish that brightens every bite.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat and texture kick on top.

Before You Start

Taking a few minutes to get everything ready makes a world of difference in a successful Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe. Measure out your ingredients, pat the shrimp dry so the coating sticks perfectly, and slice the green onions before you heat anything up. This prep—mise en place—is all about smooth cooking and consistent results that shine.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes—you want a tender bite without mush. Drain the pasta, reserving half a cup of the starchy pasta water, which will come in handy later to loosen the sauce.
2. Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—this step helps the cornstarch coat stick and ensures crispiness. Season all over with salt and pepper. Toss the shrimp in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn lightly golden and crisp-edged. Transfer them to paper towels to drain.
3. Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. This creamy, spicy, slightly sweet sauce is the heart of the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe. Taste and adjust the heat by adding more sriracha if you like it fiery.
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Cook Like a Pro

Don’t rush frying the shrimp—medium-high heat and giving them space in the pan prevents soggy coating and promotes golden crispness. Keeping reserved pasta water nearby means you can adjust sauce consistency for a velvety finish that clings beautifully to every strand.

4. Combine everything: Return the drained spaghetti to the skillet over low heat. Pour the bang bang sauce over and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it until it’s creamy and smooth. Fold in most of the crispy shrimp, holding some back for the final plating touch.
5. Serve: Plate the saucy pasta, then top with the reserved shrimp for a crisp contrast. Scatter sliced green onions and a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for zesty, fresh brightness and a little extra heat if you want. Dive in while warm, and enjoy the mix of textures and flavors.

Flavor Variations for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

• Make it creamy extra: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella after tossing the pasta for gooey richness.
• Veggie boost: Add steamed broccoli or snap peas alongside for color, crunch, and a fresh balance.
• Swap the shrimp: Substitute with crispy chicken tenders or tofu for a vegetarian twist without losing the crisp coating.
• Sweet and smoky: Add a drizzle of smoky chipotle sauce or swap sriracha for chipotle hot sauce for something deeper.
• Citrus zing: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and some zest to brighten the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Herbal notes: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for an aromatic lift that pairs well with the spicy-sweet profile.

Storage, Freezer & Reheat Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—shrimp remain tender but the coating softens slightly.
• For best texture, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often and adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish due to the creamy sauce, but if you do, freeze tightly for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reserve extra green onions and red pepper flakes to sprinkle fresh after reheating for brightness and crunch.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs

• Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying? Absolutely! Toss shrimp with cornstarch and bake at 425°F for about 8-10 minutes until crisp. It’s lighter and still flavorful.
• What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce? Use honey mixed with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of garlic powder to mimic that sweet-tangy flavor in a pinch.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Swap spaghetti for gluten-free pasta and ensure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free—most brands are, but always check.
• How spicy is this dish? The sriracha adds a medium heat level. You can reduce it or omit for a milder sauce, or add more if you love it hot.
• Is this recipe good for meal prep? Yes, it stores well for a few days and reheats nicely with minor texture change in shrimp coating.

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