Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta – Creamy, Spicy & Irresistibly Delicious!

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new favorite dish. This mouthwatering recipe combines crispy, seasoned shrimp with a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer, this dish takes things to the next level by transforming it into a full meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick dinner for busy weeknights or an impressive meal for guests.

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

• Packed with flavor – The creamy sauce balances sweetness, heat, and tanginess.
• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or use a different pasta.
• Perfect texture – Crispy shrimp meets smooth, rich sauce and tender pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for a light crispy coating)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta until al dente, following the package instructions.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Toss the shrimp in cornstarch for a light crispy coating.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and slightly crispy.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste – add more Sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. In the same skillet used for shrimp, add the cooked pasta.
2. Pour in the Bang Bang sauce and toss until evenly coated.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
4. Add the shrimp back into the pan and stir to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for extra spice.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp enhance the flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – It only takes a few minutes per side to cook properly.
• Balance the sauce – Adjust spice and sweetness to your liking.
• Toss pasta in the sauce immediately – This helps it absorb the flavors better.

FAQs

Can I Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Less Spicy?

Yes! Reduce the amount of Sriracha or use a milder chili sauce to control the heat level.

Can I Use a Different Protein?

Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or even salmon make great substitutes for shrimp.

What Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are great options, but you can use any pasta you like.

Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

A fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a game-changer for pasta lovers who enjoy bold, spicy flavors. The creamy sauce, crispy shrimp, and tender pasta create a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you love spice or prefer a milder dish, this recipe is easy to customize to your taste. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more!

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