Table of Contents
- Your New Favorite Dinner: Why Bang Bang Shrimp is a Must-Try
- Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Delivers Every Time
- Ingredients & Intent: Building Your Bang Bang Shrimp
- Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Bang Bang Shrimp
- Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp
- What to Serve With Your Bang Bang Shrimp
- Storing & Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp
- Bang Bang Shrimp FAQs
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with a dish that’s become a global sensation: Bang Bang Shrimp! Imagine succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp, enveloped in a crispy, golden coating, then generously tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that leaves you craving more with every bite. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that will have your family and friends begging for the recipe. Forget those expensive restaurant versions – today, we’re bringing that magic right into your kitchen, and I promise you, it’s easier than you think!
Your New Favorite Dinner: Why Bang Bang Shrimp is a Must-Try
There’s a reason Bang Bang Shrimp has taken the culinary world by storm. It’s that perfect blend of indulgence and approachability, a dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to prepare. What was once a coveted restaurant appetizer can now be your go-to weeknight dinner or impressive party starter. In just minutes, you can transform humble shrimp into a show-stopping meal that’s bursting with flavor and irresistible crunch. Prepare to add this to your regular rotation!
Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Delivers Every Time
- Perfectly crispy texture without deep-frying: We achieve an incredible crunch with a simple pan-fry, making it healthier and less messy than traditional deep-frying.
- Balanced sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce: Our signature Bang Bang sauce hits all the right notes – a creamy base with a delightful kick and a bright finish.
- Quick preparation makes it ideal for weeknights: From start to finish, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile dish for various dietary needs: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets (with cornstarch) and can be adjusted for spice preferences.
Ingredients & Intent: Building Your Bang Bang Shrimp
Here is what you need and why:
Shrimp: For the best Bang Bang Shrimp, I recommend using large (21/25 count) or jumbo (16/20 count) shrimp. You can use either fresh or frozen, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and thoroughly patted dry. Size matters here because larger shrimp are less likely to overcook and offer a more satisfying bite. Always make sure they are peeled and deveined.
Crisp Coating: Cornstarch: This is our secret weapon for that incredible, light, and crispy exterior without the need for a heavy batter or deep-frying. Cornstarch creates a delicate, almost tempura-like crust that adheres beautifully to the shrimp and gets wonderfully golden when cooked. Do not substitute with flour if you want that signature crispness.
The Bang Bang Sauce Base: Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise is crucial here for achieving that rich, creamy, and luxurious texture that defines the sauce. It provides the perfect canvas for the other flavors to shine. While you could use light mayo, the sauce won’t be as decadent. For a homemade touch, consider making your own mayonnaise!
Sweet Heat: Sweet Chili Sauce and Sriracha: This dynamic duo creates the iconic sweet and spicy profile of Bang Bang Shrimp. Sweet chili sauce brings the necessary sweetness and a mild, fruity heat, while Sriracha delivers that unmistakable fiery kick. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your personal spice preference – a little goes a long way!
Acid & Freshness: Lime Juice and Cilantro: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for cutting through the richness of the sauce and adding a bright, tangy finish that elevates all the flavors. Don’t skip it! Fresh cilantro, while optional, adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the shrimp perfectly. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, finely chopped green onions make a great alternative.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Bang Bang Shrimp
Follow these step-by-step photos:
1. Prep the Shrimp
Start by ensuring your shrimp are perfectly prepped. If using frozen, thaw them completely under cold running water or overnight in the refrigerator. Peel and devein them if they aren’t already. The most crucial step here is to pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture will prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly and will result in less crispy shrimp. Lay them out on a few layers of paper towels and press gently to absorb all the liquid.
2. Coat the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss the dried shrimp with a tablespoon of olive oil (or another neutral oil) and a pinch of salt and pepper. Then, add about 1/4 cup of cornstarch. Toss gently until each shrimp is evenly coated with a thin layer of cornstarch. You want a light dusting, not a thick paste. If it looks too thick, you can shake off any excess. This thin coating is what will give us that amazing crispness.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of neutral oil (like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil) in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn opaque, pink, and beautifully golden brown and crispy. You might need to cook them in batches to avoid steaming them. Remove the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Mix the Sauce
While the shrimp are cooking, prepare your irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha (adjust to your heat preference), and the juice of half a lime. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – perhaps a little more lime for brightness or Sriracha for heat.
5. Dress and Serve
Once all the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp and gently toss until every piece is thoroughly coated. You want a generous, even layer of that delicious sauce. Transfer the sauced shrimp to a serving platter, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or sliced green onions, and serve immediately. The crispness is best enjoyed right away!
Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks very quickly! Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
- Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: This cannot be stressed enough. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Pat, pat, pat!
- Adjust Spice Level: The beauty of homemade Bang Bang Shrimp is that you control the heat. Start with less Sriracha and add more to taste.
- Serve Immediately: For the ultimate experience, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp as soon as it’s tossed in the sauce. The coating will be at its crispiest.
- Use a Good Non-Stick Pan: This will prevent the cornstarch coating from sticking and ensure even browning.
What to Serve With Your Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a classic and comforting option, serve it over a bed of fluffy Jasmine or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re looking to add some freshness and nutrients, steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are fantastic choices. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. For a fun, low-carb, and interactive meal, serve the shrimp in crisp lettuce wraps – butter lettuce or romaine hearts work wonderfully. You can even make it a taco night with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings! For more culinary inspiration, see more easy recipes.
Storing & Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp
While Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly store leftovers. Place any remaining shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the crispy coating will soften once it’s been tossed in the sauce and refrigerated. To reheat, the best method to regain some crispness is to spread the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the shrimp rubbery and the coating soggy. You can also quickly pan-fry them again in a little oil until warmed.
Bang Bang Shrimp FAQs
Can I use a different protein?
How can I make the sauce less spicy?
What if my shrimp isn’t crispy?
Is this recipe gluten-free?
For more amazing recipes and baking tips, be sure to check out Food Network!
Bang Bang Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Craving Bang Bang Shrimp? This step-by-step guide shows you how to make the best Bang Bang Shrimp with amazing flavor. Get ready for crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s better than any restaurant!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for shrimp)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1–2 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prep the Shrimp: Thaw shrimp if frozen. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
- 2. Coat the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the dried shrimp with 1 tbsp olive oil, then add the cornstarch and toss until evenly coated.
- 3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1-2 tbsp neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque, pink, and golden. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
- 4. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
- 5. Dress and Serve: Transfer cooked shrimp to a large bowl, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat. Garnish with cilantro or green onions and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins