Bang Bang Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish known for its crispy coating and bold, creamy, spicy sauce. Originating from Asian-inspired cuisine and popularized by restaurants, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home. The shrimp are lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a luscious sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of sriracha. The result is a dish that’s both indulgent and irresistible.
This recipe is versatile and works as an appetizer, main course, or even as a topping for tacos, rice bowls, or salads. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a quick dinner, Bang Bang Shrimp is guaranteed to be a hit. Its combination of textures, crispy shrimp coated in a velvety sauce, creates a flavor explosion that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Bang Bang Shrimp is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few pantry staples and minimal prep. With its balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, this dish is a perfect blend of indulgence and elegance, ready to elevate your next meal or gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Bang Bang Shrimp is a culinary delight that combines bold flavors, a satisfying crunch, and a hint of heat to create a dish that stands out on any menu. The perfectly crispy shrimp, coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, offers a taste and texture contrast that’s both exciting and indulgent. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or looking to impress your family and friends with a crowd-pleasing recipe, this dish ticks all the boxes.
One of the best things about this recipe is its accessibility. It’s quick to prepare and uses common ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The frying process is straightforward, making it an excellent choice even for those new to cooking seafood. The sauce is the star of the dish, and it can be easily adjusted to suit your spice tolerance or sweet cravings, giving you full control over the flavor profile.
Another reason to love Bang Bang Shrimp is its incredible versatility. It’s perfect as a standalone appetizer for parties, a centerpiece for casual dinners, or a creative filling for tacos, wraps, and rice bowls. The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors ensures this recipe will be a hit no matter how you choose to serve it. With its ability to shine in a variety of settings, Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish you’ll turn to time and time again for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp.
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a bowl with the buttermilk, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them soak while you prepare the breading.
Step 2: Make the breading.
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Bread the shrimp.
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place the breaded shrimp on a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Heat the oil.
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Fry the shrimp.
Working in batches, fry the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Make the sauce.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using). Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.
Step 7: Toss and serve.
Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle the sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve immediately.
Ingredient Background
Shrimp
Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, as their size allows for a crispy exterior while staying tender inside. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used; just make sure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk tenderizes the shrimp and helps the breading adhere, creating a light and crispy coating. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch contributes to the crispiness of the breading, creating a light and crunchy texture that holds up well to the sauce.
Sweet Chili Sauce
Sweet chili sauce forms the base of the Bang Bang sauce, adding sweetness and a hint of spice. Look for it in the international aisle of most grocery stores.
Sriracha
Sriracha adds heat to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the chili sauce and the creaminess of the mayonnaise. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Technique Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp
Use Cold Shrimp
Cold shrimp help the breading adhere better, ensuring a crispier result. Keep them chilled until you’re ready to fry.
Fry in Batches
Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and prevents the oil temperature from dropping.
Check Oil Temperature
Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the breading may burn before the shrimp are cooked through.
Toss Gently
When coating the fried shrimp in the sauce, toss them gently to avoid breaking the crispy coating.
Serve Immediately
For the best texture, serve Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after tossing in the sauce. The coating may lose its crispiness if left to sit too long.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Serve the shrimp in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a flavorful taco option.
Bang Bang Shrimp Salad
Top a bed of mixed greens with the shrimp, avocado slices, and a light citrus vinaigrette for a fresh and satisfying salad.
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl
Serve the shrimp over steamed rice or quinoa with sautéed vegetables for a complete and hearty meal.
Bang Bang Shrimp Sliders
Place the shrimp on small brioche buns with a dollop of the sauce, lettuce, and pickles for a fun slider appetizer.
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Toss the shrimp with cooked pasta and extra sauce for a creamy, spicy pasta dish.
Freezing and Storing Bang Bang Shrimp
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftover Bang Bang Shrimp fresh and delicious, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For the best results, store the sauce separately to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy. When ready to serve, reheat the shrimp first, then drizzle the sauce on top or serve it as a dipping option. This method helps retain the shrimp’s crisp texture while keeping the flavors intact.
Freezing Shrimp
For make-ahead convenience, bread the shrimp and freeze them uncooked. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The shrimp can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry the shrimp directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. This method ensures you have crispy, fresh shrimp whenever you need them.
Reheating Tips
Reheat leftover shrimp in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even reheating, and check them halfway through to prevent overcooking. Avoid microwaving the shrimp, as this can make the breading soggy and diminish the overall flavor. For a quick refresh, you can also reheat the shrimp in a skillet with a touch of oil, flipping them to crisp up both sides.
Healthier Twist Ideas
1. Air Fryer Option
Prepare the breaded shrimp using an air fryer for a healthier, lower-fat alternative. Cook the shrimp at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The air fryer delivers a crispy coating with minimal oil, making it a guilt-free option.
2. Baked Shrimp
Skip the frying altogether and bake the shrimp for a leaner version. Arrange the breaded shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness. Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking oil before baking to enhance the golden color and crunch.
3. Greek Yogurt Sauce
For a lighter take on the sauce, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt maintains the creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor and reducing the calorie count. This substitution is perfect for those looking to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp with fewer indulgences.
4. Whole Wheat Breading
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. This simple swap increases the nutritional value of the dish while maintaining the crispy texture of the shrimp.
5. Skip the Frying
For an even leaner preparation, sauté the shrimp in a skillet with a light coating of oil. Cook over medium-high heat until the breading is golden and the shrimp are cooked through. This method reduces the amount of oil used while still delivering a satisfying crunch.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Appetizers
Bang Bang Shrimp is a perfect party starter. Arrange the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color. Pair them with extra sauce on the side for dipping to keep your guests coming back for more.
Family Dinners
For a balanced family meal, serve Bang Bang Shrimp alongside steamed jasmine rice, roasted broccoli, and a refreshing cucumber salad. This combination creates a wholesome dinner that’s full of flavor and texture, appealing to both adults and kids.
Party Platters
Add Bang Bang Shrimp to a seafood-themed platter for a show-stopping presentation. Include complementary dishes like crab cakes, fried calamari, and cocktail shrimp, and provide a variety of sauces for dipping. This setup is sure to impress your guests and make any gathering memorable.
Casual Lunches
Transform Bang Bang Shrimp into a quick and flavorful lunch by serving them in tacos or wraps. Layer the shrimp with crunchy slaw, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a handheld meal that’s perfect for busy days or casual gatherings.
Elegant Dinners
For a more refined presentation, plate Bang Bang Shrimp atop a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and add a wedge of lime on the side for a burst of brightness. This sophisticated setup is ideal for date nights or dinner parties where you want to impress without too much effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
2. How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp?
The spice level is mild to moderate. Adjust the sriracha in the sauce to suit your preference.
3. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, bake the shrimp at 425°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Can I make the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
5. Is there an even easier method for making crispy shrimp?
If you’re looking for a quicker, healthier way to prepare crispy shrimp, try our Air Fryer Shrimp. It’s a fuss-free recipe that delivers perfect crunch with less oil.
6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the breading, and ensure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
7. What sides pair best with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad are excellent pairings.
8. How can I reheat the shrimp without losing crispiness?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes for the best texture.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that truly delivers on every front—flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Its crispy exterior and creamy, spicy sauce create a harmony of tastes that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, pairing it with rice and vegetables for a satisfying main course, or using it as the star ingredient in tacos or wraps, this recipe adapts to any dining situation.
The beauty of Bang Bang Shrimp lies in its balance of bold flavors and simplicity. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights, yet it’s impressive enough to serve at gatherings or special dinners. The ability to customize the sauce and spice level ensures this dish will suit every palate, from spice lovers to those who prefer milder flavors.
With its unique combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements, Bang Bang Shrimp is more than just a dish, it’s a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. This recipe is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen, a go-to for both comfort food cravings and occasions when you want to wow your guests.