Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

If you’re a fan of bold, vibrant flavors with a hint of spice, you’re in for a treat with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. This dish takes the crave-worthy Bang Bang shrimp, famously known for its crispy coating and zesty, creamy sauce, and pairs it with tender pasta for a delightful fusion that’s guaranteed to impress. Combining spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors with a luscious sauce, this recipe will turn your dinner into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta blends elements of both Asian and American cuisines, fusing crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce with the comforting familiarity of pasta. It’s the kind of dish that offers both an exciting kick and satisfying comfort—a truly perfect balance. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or just treating yourself to something special, this pasta dish delivers big on flavor and texture. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, with just a few simple steps to get it on the table in under 30 minutes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, offering tips and variations along the way. If you’re ready to wow your taste buds with a dish that packs heat, creaminess, and crunch all in one, let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

1. Bold and Flavorful: The signature Bang Bang sauce is a mouthwatering combination of creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy, coating both the shrimp and the pasta in irresistible flavor.
2. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
3. Restaurant-Quality at Home: Bring the flavors of a popular restaurant dish to your home with this easy-to-follow recipe. It tastes like something you’d order at a trendy spot but can be made right in your own kitchen.
4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less spice, or swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a variation on the dish.
5. Perfect for Entertaining: Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress guests with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation. It’s a great choice for gatherings, date nights, or special occasions.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Serving Size: 1 bowl of pasta with shrimp

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Carbs: 52g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 32g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fiber: 3g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup cornstarch (for dredging the shrimp)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying the shrimp)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha (depending on your heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey (for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for tanginess)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine (you can use any pasta shape you like)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Add-Ins and Variations:

• Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies.
• Tofu: Substitute shrimp with crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch to make the dish gluten-free.
• Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, zesty touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Season and Coat the Shrimp:

In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika (if using). Then, coat the shrimp in ½ cup of cornstarch, shaking off any excess. The cornstarch helps the shrimp get crispy when fried.

2. Fry the Shrimp:

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden and crispy. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:

While the shrimp is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

2. Reserve Pasta Water and Drain:

Before draining the pasta, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water—this will help loosen the sauce later if needed. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. Whisk the Sauce:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce, 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha (depending on your heat preference), 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 2 minced garlic cloves. This is your bold, creamy Bang Bang sauce.

2. Taste and Adjust:

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, add more Sriracha; if you want it sweeter, add more honey.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta with the Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic:

In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp (no need to wash it), heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Toss the Pasta:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic, tossing to coat the noodles in the garlic oil. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the pasta and toss until the noodles are evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine the Shrimp and Pasta

1. Add the Shrimp:

Add the crispy fried shrimp to the pasta and gently toss to combine, ensuring the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

2. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like it extra spicy). Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta hot, with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Bold, Flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is ready to be enjoyed! The crispy shrimp, creamy and spicy sauce, and tender pasta come together in perfect harmony for a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

How to Serve

• As a Main Course: Serve this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta as the star of your meal. It’s a complete dish on its own, combining protein, carbs, and sauce in every bite.
• With a Side Salad: Pair this bold pasta dish with a simple green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the sauce.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with homemade garlic bread or buttery rolls to soak up every last drop of the creamy Bang Bang sauce.
• Family Style: If you’re feeding a crowd, serve the pasta family-style in a large dish, allowing everyone to help themselves to seconds!

Additional Tips for Success

1. Pat the Shrimp Dry: To ensure your shrimp gets nice and crispy, pat them dry with paper towels before coating them in cornstarch. Excess moisture will prevent them from crisping up properly.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the shrimp, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary, so they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
3. Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Be sure to cook your pasta to al dente (firm to the bite) so that it holds up well in the creamy sauce and doesn’t become mushy.
4. Use Reserved Pasta Water: If the sauce becomes too thick or sticky, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silkier texture.
5. Adjust the Heat Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just 1 tablespoon of Sriracha in the sauce and taste before adding more. You can always add more spice, but you can’t take it out!

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is how easily it can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few fun variations to try:

1. Bang Bang Chicken Pasta:

If you’re not a fan of shrimp or want to switch things up, swap the shrimp for chicken breast. Simply cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, dredge them in cornstarch, and fry until crispy. The chicken pairs just as well with the Bang Bang sauce and pasta.

2. Bang Bang Tofu Pasta (Vegetarian):

For a vegetarian version of this dish, use extra-firm tofu instead of shrimp. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it and dredge in cornstarch. Fry until golden and crispy, then toss with the pasta and Bang Bang sauce.

3. Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:

Make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and substituting the cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or chickpea flour. The flavors and textures will remain just as delicious!

4. Spaghetti Squash Bang Bang Shrimp:

For a lighter, lower-carb version, use spaghetti squash instead of pasta. Roast the squash until tender, then scrape out the strands and toss them with the shrimp and sauce for a healthier take on the dish.

5. Bang Bang Veggie Pasta:

Boost the veggie content of this dish by adding sautéed or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. The vegetables add texture, color, and nutrients to the pasta while still complementing the bold flavors of the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing the Shrimp:

If you want to freeze the shrimp separately, fry them as directed, then let them cool completely. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, reheat the shrimp in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until crispy again.

Reheating Tips:

To reheat the pasta, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a bit of milk, cream, or pasta water to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan: For frying the shrimp and tossing the pasta.
• Tongs: To flip the shrimp while frying.
• Whisk: To mix the Bang Bang sauce evenly.
• Large pot: For cooking the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, if you have pre-cooked shrimp on hand, you can use them. However, you won’t need to fry them. Simply toss the pre-cooked shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce and heat them in the skillet with the pasta just before serving.

2. How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce depends on how much Sriracha you add. If you prefer a milder dish, start with just 1 tablespoon of Sriracha and taste before adding more. For those who love heat, feel free to increase the amount of Sriracha or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top.

3. Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying them?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the shrimp instead of frying. Dredge the shrimp in cornstarch, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or until crispy.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the shrimp tends to lose its crispiness over time. However, you can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Fry the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.

5. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

While spaghetti and fettuccine are great options, you can use any pasta you prefer—penne, linguine, or even farfalle (bowtie pasta) would work well with this sauce and shrimp combination.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a flavor explosion in every bite. The crispy shrimp, combined with the bold, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang sauce, creates a perfect match with tender pasta. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to suit your taste, whether by adjusting the spice level or adding your favorite vegetables. I hope you enjoy making and eating this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta as much as I do—happy cooking!

Print