If you love bold flavors and crave a mix of crispy seafood and creamy pasta, then Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the perfect dish for you. This recipe combines crunchy, golden-brown shrimp with a rich, spicy sauce and a velvety pasta base, creating an irresistible fusion of textures and tastes. Inspired by the famous Bang Bang Shrimp from Bonefish Grill, this homemade version elevates the dish with a creamy garlic-infused pasta, making it a satisfying main course.

The secret behind this dish lies in its unique sauce, which blends mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for a perfect balance of creaminess, heat, and sweetness. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions. Plus, you can customize the spice level to suit your preference.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different pasta dishes, Pasta comes in various shapes and textures, all of which can complement this recipe. If you’re curious about other creamy pasta dishes, check out these Creamy Pasta Recipes for more inspiration. Ready to bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this dish at home!

Ingredients Overview

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta starts with gathering the right ingredients. This dish is divided into three main components: crispy shrimp, spicy bang bang sauce, and creamy pasta. Each element contributes to the bold flavors and textures that make this recipe so irresistible.

If you’re new to cooking seafood, understanding the basics of shrimp can help you choose the best type for this dish. Similarly, if you’re looking for more ways to incorporate shrimp into your meals, explore Crispy Fried Shrimp recipes for additional ideas.

Ingredients for the Shrimp

To achieve a crispy, golden crust, the shrimp is coated in a flavorful mixture before frying. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses a savory depth
1/2 teaspoon paprika – Gives a smoky, slightly sweet flavor
1/2 cup cornstarch – Creates a light, crispy coating
1 egg, beaten – Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the shrimp
1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Ensures maximum crunchiness
2 tablespoons oil for frying – Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola

Ingredients for the Sauce

The signature bang bang sauce is what sets this dish apart. It’s creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect complement to the crispy shrimp. Here’s what you’ll need:

1/2 cup mayonnaise – Provides a rich, creamy base (Mayonnaise)
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness with a mild heat (Sweet Chili Sauce)
1 tablespoon sriracha – Brings a bold, spicy kick (Sriracha)
1 tablespoon honey – Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness
1 teaspoon lime juice – Enhances the sauce with a fresh, tangy note

Ingredients for the Pasta

The pasta base ties the dish together, offering a creamy and slightly garlicky flavor that complements the shrimp and sauce. You’ll need:

12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine – Long noodles work best for coating in sauce
2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness to the pasta sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Provides a subtle heat
1/2 cup heavy cream – Creates a smooth and velvety texture
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, umami depth
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish) – Enhances the dish with freshness
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional) – Adds color and extra flavor

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking. The process is divided into four main steps: preparing the shrimp, making the bang bang sauce, cooking the pasta, and creating the creamy sauce. Each step is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of crispiness, spice, and creaminess.

If you’re interested in mastering different shrimp cooking techniques, check out this guide on shrimp. For those who want more creative variations of fried shrimp, explore these Crispy Fried Shrimp ideas.

Preparing the Shrimp

To get that perfect crunchy texture, follow these steps:

Season the Shrimp – In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
Dredge in Cornstarch – Lightly coat each shrimp in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This helps create a crispy crust.
Dip in Egg – Beat one egg in a separate bowl and dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
Coat with Panko – Roll the egg-coated shrimp in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.
Heat the Oil – In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
Fry the Shrimp – Add the shrimp in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on Paper Towels – Transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce

The bang bang sauce is what gives this dish its signature flavor. It’s a simple mix of spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet elements:

Combine Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the sriracha or add more honey.
Set Aside – Keep the sauce at room temperature while you prepare the pasta.

For more homemade sauce ideas, check out these Homemade Sauces for inspiration.

Cooking the Pasta

Boil Water – In a large pot, bring 4-5 quarts of salted water to a boil.
Cook the Pasta – Add 12 ounces of spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-12 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Drain and Set Aside – Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

The pasta will later be combined with a creamy garlic sauce, so keeping it slightly undercooked (al dente) ensures it absorbs the flavors well. If you want to explore different pasta options, check out Pasta Varieties for more details.

Making the Creamy Pasta Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is the foundation of this dish, adding richness and depth of flavor to the pasta. Follow these steps to create a smooth, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp.

Melt the Butter – In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Sauté the Garlic – Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add Red Pepper Flakes – Stir in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Pour in Heavy Cream – Lower the heat to medium-low and add ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously.
Incorporate Parmesan Cheese – Gradually mix in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Adjust Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches a smooth, creamy texture.

Now that the sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together for the final dish! If you love experimenting with different creamy sauces, you might enjoy these Creamy Pasta Recipes for more variations.

Assembling the Dish

Now that all the components are prepared, it’s time to put everything together for a flavorful and visually appealing meal.

Toss the Pasta – Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss until fully coated.
Add the Shrimp – Gently place the crispy shrimp on top of the pasta, ensuring they remain crunchy.
Drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce – Pour the prepared bang bang sauce evenly over the shrimp and pasta for a bold flavor boost.
Garnish for Freshness – Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

For a restaurant-quality presentation, consider serving this dish in a shallow pasta bowl with extra Parmesan cheese on the side. If you’re looking for easy weeknight meals with similar flavors, explore these Easy Weeknight Dinners for more inspiration.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta experience, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes and beverages. The rich, creamy pasta and crispy shrimp pair well with fresh, light, and mildly acidic sides that balance the bold flavors.

Best Side Dishes

Garlic Bread – A crunchy, buttery side that helps soak up the extra creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini, lightly seasoned and roasted for added texture.
Simple Green Salad – A mix of arugula, spinach, or romaine with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

For more creative meal ideas, explore Easy Weeknight Dinners to find other dishes that complement this pasta.

Best Drinks to Pair

White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
Citrus-Infused Water – Lemon or lime-infused water adds a refreshing touch.
Iced Tea – A slightly sweetened peach or lemon iced tea pairs well with the spicy kick of the sauce.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, follow these tips to keep them fresh:

Storage – Store the shrimp and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s texture. The shrimp can be reheated in an air fryer (350°F for 3-4 minutes) or oven (375°F for 5-7 minutes) to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta to help you perfect this dish and customize it to your preferences.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, as this helps the breading stick better and prevents soggy shrimp.

How do I make this dish less spicy?

To reduce the heat, try the following adjustments:

Use less sriracha or replace it with a mild hot sauce.
Increase the mayonnaise or honey to mellow out the spice.
Skip the red pepper flakes in the pasta sauce.

Can I bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier alternative, you can:

Bake: Place breaded shrimp on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air-Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crispiness.

What’s the best pasta type for this recipe?

Spaghetti and fettuccine are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can also use:

Linguine – A slightly thinner alternative to fettuccine.
Penne or rigatoni – Great for holding sauce in their ridges.

To explore different pasta types and how they pair with sauces, check out this guide to pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but to keep the shrimp crispy, store the components separately:

Cook and store the pasta with the sauce in an airtight container.
Keep the shrimp in a separate container and reheat in an oven or air fryer before serving.
Store the bang bang sauce in the fridge and drizzle it fresh over the dish when serving.

Now that we’ve covered everything from preparation to serving and customization, you’re ready to enjoy this restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta at home!

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines crispy fried shrimp, a creamy garlic-infused pasta, and a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce. Inspired by the popular Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp, this homemade version takes it to the next level by pairing the crunchy shrimp with a rich and velvety pasta sauce.

The dish is perfect for seafood lovers and anyone who enjoys a mix of crispy, creamy, and spicy flavors in one satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a restaurant-quality dinner at home, this recipe delivers in both taste and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 egg, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons oil for frying

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon lime juice

For the Pasta:

12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Dredge the shrimp in cornstarch, then dip in the beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the shrimp until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice to make the bang bang sauce.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, mixing well to coat.

Add the fried shrimp to the pasta and drizzle with bang bang sauce.

Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.

Notes

Adjust the Spice Level – Reduce or increase the sriracha and red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. Adding more honey or mayonnaise can help balance out the spice.
Choosing the Right Shrimp – Large shrimp (21-25 count per pound) work best for this recipe. Make sure they are peeled, deveined, and dried before coating for the crispiest results.
Crispy Shrimp Tips – For the best texture, fry the shrimp in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan. Let them drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.
Pasta Choices – While spaghetti and fettuccine are recommended, you can also use linguine, penne, or rigatoni if you prefer shorter pasta shapes.
Storage & Reheating – Keep the shrimp separate from the pasta to maintain crispiness. Reheat shrimp in an air fryer or oven to restore crunch, and gently warm the pasta with a splash of cream or pasta water to keep it creamy.

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