Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

The aroma of sizzling shrimp paired with rich, creamy pasta creates a moment of culinary bliss. Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delicious fusion dish that brings together tender shrimp and creamy sauces in just under 30 minutes. It works wonderfully as a crowd-pleaser, satisfying those seeking both comfort and exciting flavors.

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious dish for a gathering. For those who like to plan ahead, the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy fried shrimp add a delightful crunch to the dish.
• A creamy, spicy bang bang sauce elevates the flavors.
• It’s a quick meal, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile ingredients allow for easy modifications to suit your taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather the necessary ingredients before you start cooking:

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 Ingredients

• 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.

Note: Adjust Sriracha for desired spiciness.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for frying.
• Swap shrimp for crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute lime juice with lemon juice if needed.

How to Make It

Create a delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in just a few simple steps.

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Season and coat the shrimp: In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Dredge the shrimp in the mixture until well-coated.
Fry the shrimp: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Fry the coated shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve pasta water and drain: Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to use later. Drain the pasta and set aside.

3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Whisk the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, lime juice, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust: Adjust the sauce’s spiciness by adding more Sriracha if desired.

4. Toss the Pasta with the Sauce

Sauté garlic: In the same skillet used for the shrimp, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss the pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and pour in the bang bang sauce. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed for creaminess.

5. Combine the Shrimp and Pasta

Add the shrimp: Gently fold in the crispy shrimp to the pasta while ensuring they stay intact.
Garnish and serve: Transfer to serving plates, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes if using.

6. Enjoy your bold, flavorful bang bang shrimp pasta!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, shrimp don’t freeze well after cooking.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for a crispy texture.
• Toss the pasta while it’s still hot to better combine with the sauce.
• Use freshly minced garlic for an intense flavor boost.
• Adjust the sauce ingredients for personal taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a comforting touch.
• Perfect for a weekend family dinner or casual get-together.