Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

The Best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe for Zesty Family Dinners

Crispy, zesty bang bang shrimp pasta delivers a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance with excitement.

Spicy crunch meets creamy sauce in this irresistible dish.

Southern coastal kitchens inspired this crowd-pleasing meal that combines seafood and noodles perfectly.

Creamy sriracha mayo creates a tangy coating for plump, golden shrimp.

Each bite promises a symphony of textures and bold flavors that challenge traditional pasta expectations.

Small kitchen warriors can whip up this restaurant-quality dinner in less than 30 minutes.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those nights when comfort and excitement need to meet on one plate.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe Spins

  • Spicy Vegetarian Delight: Replace shrimp with crispy tofu cubes, pan-seared until golden and tossed in the same bang bang sauce for a plant-based protein alternative.
  • Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Swap traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles, maintaining the same sauce and cooking method for a lighter, gluten-free option.
  • Creamy Coconut Curry Spin: Modify the sauce by adding coconut milk and mild curry powder, creating a richer, more complex flavor profile while keeping the core recipe structure.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly Adaptation: Use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles, ensuring all sauce ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

Great Pairings For Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

  • Flavor Fusion Pairings for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
  • Crisp White Wine Companion: Reach for a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the spicy-sweet sauce and cut through the creamy texture.
  • Cooling Cucumber Salad Side: Prepare a light cucumber salad with dill and lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's heat and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Tropical Fruit Salsa Topper: Dice fresh mango, pineapple, and red onion to create a zesty salsa that adds bright, sweet notes and enhances the sriracha's warmth.
  • Craft Beer Match: Select a hoppy pale ale or wheat beer with citrus undertones to echo the dish's tangy profile and cleanse the palate between bites.

Storing Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Right

  • Store leftover bang bang shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Separate sauce and shrimp if possible to prevent soggy texture.
  • Warm gently in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Revive pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a touch of olive oil or water to restore softness. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming.
  • Not recommended due to mayonnaise-based sauce and delicate shrimp texture, which can separate and become unappetizing when thawed.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta FAQ

  • What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo-sized shrimp are ideal, preferably wild-caught or fresh shrimp with the tail-on for better flavor and presentation.

  • Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?

Absolutely! Adjust the sriracha and red pepper flakes to control the heat level. Less sauce means milder taste, while more creates a spicier kick.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your mayonnaise and other condiments are certified gluten-free.

  • How can I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a golden-brown exterior. Remove immediately to prevent rubbery texture.

Why Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Is A Must-Try

  • Craft Spicy Sensation: Irresistible bang bang shrimp pasta brings restaurant-quality flavors directly to your kitchen with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Speed Through Preparation: Quick cooking process means you can transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner cravings.
  • Customize with Confidence: Easily adjust spice levels by modifying sriracha quantity, making this recipe adaptable for different taste preferences from mild to fiery hot.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Solution: Combines familiar pasta comfort with exciting seafood and zesty sauce, guaranteed to impress family members and dinner guests with its bold, tantalizing flavor profile.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta Base:
  • Pasta: A classic foundation that provides a comforting and satisfying texture for the dish.
For the Protein:
  • Shrimp: A succulent seafood protein that offers a sweet and delicate flavor profile to the recipe.
For the Sauce Components:
  • Mayonnaise: A creamy base that helps create a smooth and rich sauce with a luxurious mouthfeel.
  • Sriracha: A spicy chili sauce that adds heat and depth to the bang bang sauce.
  • Honey: A natural sweetener that balances the heat and adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
  • Rice Vinegar: A tangy ingredient that brings brightness and acidity to the overall flavor.
For the Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder: A convenient seasoning that provides a concentrated garlic flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: A spice that introduces additional heat and complexity to the dish.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp and pasta.
For the Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil: A cooking oil that helps sear the shrimp and provides a subtle, rich undertone.
For the Garnishes:
  • Green Onions, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that add bright, aromatic notes and visual appeal.
  • Lime: A citrus fruit that provides a zesty, refreshing finish to the dish.

Steps For Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Boil The Pasta

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender. Drain and set pasta aside.

Step 2: Whip Up Spicy Sauce

Combine sauce ingredients in a small bowl:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sriracha
  • Honey
  • Rice vinegar
  • Garlic powder
  • Red pepper flakes

Whisk until smooth and vibrant.

Step 3: Prepare Shrimp

Use paper towels to thoroughly dry shrimp, ensuring they will crisp beautifully during cooking.

Step 4: Sear Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side. Season with salt and black pepper. Shrimp should turn pink with golden-brown edges.

Step 5: Combine Pasta And Shrimp

Remove shrimp from skillet. Toss cooked pasta with prepared bang bang sauce, coating every strand evenly. Gently fold seared shrimp into sauced pasta.

Step 6: Plate And Garnish

Transfer pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro on top. Add lime wedges alongside for extra zesty flavor.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Enjoy hot, straight from the plate, with all flavors at their peak.

Pro Tips For Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

  • Select Dry Shrimp Wisely: Choose fresh, firm shrimp without discoloration or strong fishy odors for the best flavor and texture.
  • Sauce Balance Matters: Adjust sriracha and honey quantities to personalize heat and sweetness levels according to your taste preferences.
  • Prevent Pasta Sticking: Toss cooked pasta with a little olive oil immediately after draining to prevent clumping and ensure smooth sauce coverage.
  • Master Quick Shrimp Cooking: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly to maintain tenderness and avoid rubbery texture.
  • Herb Freshness Boosts Flavor: Chop green onions and cilantro right before serving to preserve their vibrant taste and aromatic qualities.
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Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe


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4.5 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Spicy bang bang shrimp pasta delivers a fiery kick of creamy, tangy goodness that dance across your palate. Crispy shrimp and zesty sauce create a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily craft in your own kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale

Seafood:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

Pasta and Base:

  • 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl to create a vibrant, tangy sauce.
  3. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness during cooking.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and nearly smoking.
  5. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, seasoning with salt and black pepper, until they turn pink and develop a golden-brown exterior.
  6. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside momentarily.
  7. Toss the cooked pasta with the prepared bang bang sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.
  8. Gently fold the seared shrimp into the sauced pasta, mixing carefully to distribute throughout.
  9. Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
  10. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are completely dry before cooking to achieve that perfect crispy exterior without steaming.
  • Adjust sriracha levels to control spice intensity, making the dish mild or fiery hot based on personal preference.
  • Consider using gluten-free pasta and mayonnaise for a celiac-friendly version of this zesty meal.
  • Create a lighter alternative by substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, reducing overall calorie content while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 70 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 200 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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