Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fun and flavorful dish that combines crunchy, spicy shrimp with creamy pasta. The shrimp are coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a tasty bang bang sauce that has just the right amount of sweet and heat. Paired with tender noodles, this meal is both satisfying and quick to make.
I love making this recipe when I want something a little different but still simple. The bang bang sauce brings a nice kick without being too spicy, so it’s perfect for sharing with family or friends who enjoy a bit of flavor. Plus, the shrimp cooks up fast, which means dinner is ready before you know it.
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and a squeeze of lime to brighten everything up. It’s great for a weeknight meal or even a casual dinner party. Whenever I make it, everyone asks for seconds — it’s just that good and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here for quick cooking and a nice bite. You can use frozen shrimp too—just thaw and pat dry. For a vegetarian twist, try crispy tofu or cooked mushrooms.
Bang Bang Sauce: This is made from mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. If you want less spice, reduce the sriracha or swap it for chili garlic sauce. You can try Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter sauce.
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine hold the sauce well. Feel free to use fettuccine or penne if you prefer different shapes. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta work for special diets.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you can’t have dairy, omit it or try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy touch.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cook fast, so keep a close eye! Here are my tips:
- Make sure shrimp are dry before seasoning—this helps them sear nicely.
- Cook in a hot pan with olive oil and garlic for flavor.
- Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes each side until pink and firm. They turn from gray to pink as they cook.
- Remove from heat as soon as they’re opaque to avoid rubbery shrimp.
Trust me, this quick method gives tender, juicy shrimp every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
- Colander – handy for draining pasta quickly and safely.
- Large skillet or frying pan – great for sautéing shrimp and garlic with good heat control.
- Mixing bowl – useful for whisking the bang bang sauce smoothly.
- Tongs or pasta fork – helps toss pasta and sauce together easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken strips for a milder, hearty option.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or snap peas for a crunchy, fresh veggie boost.
- Mix in chopped scallions or fresh basil to brighten and add fresh herb flavor.
- Swap Parmesan for shredded mozzarella for a creamier, melty twist.
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice or zest for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including cooking the pasta and shrimp. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want something flavorful and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not hard). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Taste and adjust the spice to your liking by adding more or less sriracha. Set the sauce aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they get a nice sear. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the skillet from heat.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta with the bang bang sauce in a large mixing bowl or in the skillet if it’s big enough. Make sure the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce.
5. Serve:
Place the cooked shrimp on top of the sauced pasta. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. For a fresh finish, you can drizzle with lemon juice or sprinkle some lemon zest.
Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, spicy, and delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry well to get a nice sear.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be mixed up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before tossing with the pasta to refresh the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover pasta and shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Pasta With Something Else?
Yes! You can swap spaghetti or linguine with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne, or try zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.