Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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The Comfort of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

I love how a dish like Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe brings that perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crispy elements all into one bowl. It’s not just a meal—it’s a celebration of textures and bold flavors that come together effortlessly, making it a true comfort food you’ll crave again and again.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how the crispy shrimp maintained their crunch even after being tossed in that velvety bang bang sauce. You’ll notice it’s the kind of pasta that feels like a cozy weekend lunch, yet it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself sharing stories over while savoring each bite.

Whether you’re new to cooking shrimp or a seasoned pasta lover, this recipe strikes the right balance between accessible and impressive. Let’s dive into exactly what makes this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe so irresistible.

Ingredient Guide

• Spaghetti (12 oz): Classic pasta that holds sauce beautifully and provides a familiar texture. Swap with linguine or fettuccine for a wider noodle.
• Salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning pasta water, unlocking the flavor of the noodles themselves.
• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Fresh if possible, but thawed frozen shrimp works great too. Organic varieties add a sweet touch.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): This creates that crispy outer coating when frying shrimp—lighter than flour for perfect crunch.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the shrimp’s natural sweetness shine.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp): Neutral oil ideal for frying without overpowering flavors.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Adds creamy richness to the bang bang sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce (1/4 cup): Provides sweetness and a subtle tang that balances the heat.
• Sriracha (2–3 tbsp): Gives the recipe its signature spicy kick—adjust based on your heat preference.
• Honey (1 tbsp, optional): Balances spicy and tangy with a little natural sweetness.
• Green Onions (2, sliced): Fresh garnish that brightens the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who crave an extra punch of heat.

Prep Before You Begin

Before you jump into cooking, set up all your ingredients and tools—this mise en place step saves so much time and stress. Bring a large pot of water to boil with salt; this ensures your spaghetti cooks evenly and tastes vibrant. While the water heats, pat dry your shrimp thoroughly to get that perfect crispy crust when frying.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add your spaghetti. I like to check it at around 8 minutes for that slightly firm bite known as al dente—it makes a big difference to the dish’s texture. Drain the pasta, but don’t forget to save half a cup of the starchy pasta water; that liquid gold helps the sauce cling beautifully.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Using paper towels, pat your shrimp dry—that extra moisture can ruin the crispy coating. Season gently with salt and pepper. Then toss the shrimp in cornstarch, coating each piece lightly but fully. Heat up the vegetable oil in a skillet until it’s shimmering hot, and fry the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once. The crust should be golden and lightly crisp—set them aside on paper towels to drain.
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Expert Tips to Nail It

Don’t overcrowd your pan when frying shrimp; cook them in batches if needed so each piece crisps up nicely instead of steaming. Also, reserving that pasta water will help you loosen the sauce without watering down flavor—add just enough for a silky texture.

3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey if you’re using it. This sauce is both creamy and spicy, with a subtle sweetness that balances everything perfectly. Taste it and adjust the sriracha to match your preferred heat level.
4. Combine the Elements: Toss the drained pasta back into a large skillet over medium heat. Pour the bang bang sauce over it, stirring gently to coat every strand with that golden, velvety sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add your reserved pasta water until it reaches the right consistency. Add the fried shrimp and gently fold them in, but save a few pieces to top off the plated dish.
5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates, nestle the remaining crispy shrimp on top, and sprinkle with fresh sliced green onions. If you like an added punch, a scatter of red pepper flakes will send the spice level soaring. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures of creamy sauce and crispy shrimp at their best.

Creative Variations for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

• Swap spaghetti for gluten-free or whole wheat noodles for dietary preferences without losing texture.
• Add roasted bell peppers or snap peas for a crunchy, colorful veggie boost.
• Nibble on a handful of toasted sesame seeds sprinkled over the finished dish for an earthy twist.
• Try swapping shrimp for crispy tofu cubes or chicken strips for a fun protein alternative.
• Mix a squeeze of lime juice into the sauce for a fresh citrus zing that cuts through the creaminess.
• For an indulgent finish, crumble a little feta or cotija cheese on top—unexpected but delicious.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; shrimp is best eaten fresh within that window.
• Freeze uncooked shrimp separately if you make extra, but the pasta and sauce do not reheat well from frozen due to texture changes.
• When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce and preserve that creamy consistency.
• Avoid microwaving shrimp directly, as it can turn rubbery—stir them in at the end of reheating if possible.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs

• Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying? Yes, for a lighter version, coat the shrimp in cornstarch and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce? Greek yogurt works as a tangier, lighter alternative, though the sauce will be less rich.
• How spicy is the dish? The heat mainly comes from sriracha; start with less and add more to taste if you prefer it milder or hotter.
• Can I prep the sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! The bang bang sauce holds well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making this a great make-ahead recipe.
• What type of shrimp should I buy? Look for wild-caught or sustainably farmed shrimp, peeled and deveined for convenience and best texture.

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