Easy Bang Bang Shrimp
Spice up Your Dinner with Easy Bang Bang Shrimp!
Introduction to Bang Bang Shrimp
Hey there! I’m diving deep into a dish that’s been buzzing around social media and dinner tables alike: Bang Bang Shrimp. This dynamite delight is more than just your ordinary seafood fare; it’s a perfect union of juicy, crispy shrimp drenched in that creamy, spicy sauce that has everyone talking. It’s easy to see why it’s turned into a popular appetizer, winning over hearts one bite at a time. Its allure isn’t just in the unique and bold flavors but also in the simplicity and versatility it brings to the table. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or planning to impress at your next gathering, Bang Bang Shrimp has got you covered.
Key Takeaways:
- Bang Bang Shrimp is a trending appetizer known for its spicy and creamy flavors.
- Its popularity stems from the perfect combination of crispy shrimp and a mouth-watering sauce.
- This dish is celebrated for its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing potential.
Ingredients Overview
Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this mouth-watering Bang Bang Shrimp, embracing the wonderful world of flexibility in heat levels and catering to various dietary needs. For the stars of the show, you’ll want to have on hand:

- For the Bang Bang Sauce: a delightful mix including mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and a dash of lemon juice. Spice it up or down with some cayenne or smoked paprika based on how much heat tickles your fancy.
- For the Shrimp: medium or large shrimp, depending on what’s available or your preference. Don’t forget the buttermilk or milk for that tenderizing soak, and corn starch or panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch. And let’s not overlook the spices – garlic powder, salt, and pepper are essentials here.
Whether you’re all about that zing or just a hint of spice, this combination will ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp hits all the right notes. Plus, swapping out ingredients like olive or peanut oil for frying, or opting for fresh parsley over green onions for garnish, shows just how easily you can tailor this dish to suit any and all dietary preferences.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce

Let me tell you, making the Bang Bang Sauce is like stirring a little magic into your kitchen bowl. It’s super easy! Start by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, a touch of honey for sweetness, and a dash of hot sauce for that kick we all crave. Oh, and don’t forget a squeeze of lemon juice to bring all those flavors alive. Now, here’s the twist: while this spicy mayo sauce screams “Bang Bang Shrimp”, don’t box it in; it’s a chameleon. Dipping sauce for crispy chicken? Check. A zesty spread for your shrimp tacos? Double-check. It’s the kind of creamy sauce that holds the power to transform any dish from ‘meh’ to ‘wow’. Truly, it’s a kitchen revelation waiting to unfold on your taste buds.
Prepping the Shrimp
Getting your shrimp ready for that delicious dive into the Bang Bang experience might sound daunting, but it’s really as simple as pie, or should I say, as easy as fry? First off, you have the task of deveining the shrimp. This might seem finicky, but it’s key to ensuring your shrimp are clean and ready to soak up all that flavor. No one likes to talk about it, but removing that little vein makes all the difference in texture and taste.
Now, once your shrimp are deveined, it’s time to introduce them to their first flavor bath – the buttermilk. You’re probably wondering, why buttermilk? Well, it’s not just for making pancakes fluffy! Soaking shrimp in buttermilk tenderizes them, making your shrimp not just tasty, but perfectly plump and juicy after they’re fried to that golden perfection we’re all chasing. It’s like giving your shrimp a little spa day before they hit the hot spa of the oil, ensuring every bite is as crispy as it is tender.
Frying to Perfection
Getting that golden brown, crispy shrimp perfection starts with the temperature of the oil. You’ll want it hot, but not smoking; around 350°F hits the sweet spot for that delightful sizzle as soon as your shrimp hits the pan. I like to use a deep fryer for consistency, but a large skillet filled with a couple of inches of vegetable or peanut oil does the trick too. Now, here’s a little secret of mine – use a slotted spoon to gently lower the shrimp into the oil. It prevents splashing and ensures each shrimp gets surrounded by heat evenly.

Give them about 2-3 minutes, turning once for that even golden perfection. And here’s the kicker, once they’re crispy and beautifully colored, let them drain on a paper towel or wire rack. Trust me, it keeps them crispy on all sides. Frying to perfection isn’t just about the right tools or temperatures; it’s about that moment when the shrimp turn that flawless shade of golden brown, telling you they’re ready to elevate your dinner to the next level.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve mastered this easy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe, the fun part begins – getting creative with serving! Transform your shrimp into irresistible shrimp tacos by tucking them into warm corn tortillas, topped with a drizzle of the spicy mayo sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For those evenings when comfort food is a must, serve your crispy shrimp over a bed of steaming pasta, mixing in some sweet Thai chili sauce for an extra flavor punch. The beauty of Bang Bang Shrimp is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer or a main dish, these shrimp will not disappoint. And don’t forget, a side of creamy sauce for dipping or drizzling can make all the difference, elevating your Bang Bang Shrimp to a whole new level of yum.
Storage and Reheating Tips
So, you’ve mastered the art of the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp, and maybe you’ve got some leftovers, though I doubt it because it’s just that delicious! But just in case, let’s talk storing and reheating. Keeping those crispy shrimp crispy, and that creamy sauce as zesty as when you first whipped it up, is all about the right techniques. First off, pop those shrimp in an airtight container – this is crucial. The fridge is their new best friend, but only for a day or two; we don’t want any sad, soggy shrimp, do we?
When it comes to bringing back that golden perfection, the oven is your ally. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, and give them a warm embrace at a moderate temperature until they’re just heated through – usually, a couple of minutes will do. Whatever you do, avoid the microwave; it’s a one-way ticket to rubbery shrimp city, and nobody wants that. Reheat only what you’ll eat, as a second round in the reheating game really isn’t recommended. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll enjoy that Bang Bang magic, round two.
Healthier Alternatives
Yearning for a lighter take on our beloved Bang Bang Shrimp without sacrificing that addicting crunch and flavor? I’ve got you covered! Opting for an air fryer instead of deep frying can slash the oil without compromising the golden perfection we all crave. Swap out traditional mayo with a low-fat alternative for the Bang Bang sauce to keep that creamy texture we love, with fewer calories. It’s these small tweaks that make a big difference, allowing us to indulge in our favorite dishes like Bang Bang Shrimp, guilt-free. Trust me, your tastebuds and waistline will thank you!
The Final Sizzle: Why It’s a Must-Try
Imagine this: You’ve had a long day, and the idea of cooking dinner feels like a chore. But, there’s a secret weapon in your culinary arsenal that’s about to change the game – Bang Bang Shrimp. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a tantalizing dance of flavors that promises to spice up your dinner routine in the most delightful way.

I’ve always been a fan of recipes that bring a bit of excitement to the table, and let me tell you, Bang Bang Shrimp does exactly that. With its crispy shrimp coated in that irresistibly creamy and slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce, it’s not just food; it’s a conversation starter. Whether you’re tucking into this dish on a cozy evening at home or sharing it with friends at a gathering, it never fails to impress.
What makes Bang Bang Shrimp a must-try, besides its tantalizing taste, is its remarkable ease of preparation. Even on those nights when the thought of making dinner seems daunting, this recipe comes together so effortlessly. From mixing up that simple yet flavorful sauce – a blend of mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and just a hint of sriracha – to frying the shrimp to golden perfection, every step is straightforward and fuss-free.
And let’s not forget about the versatility! Serve it up as a main dish, tuck it into tacos for a twist on shrimp tacos, or pair it with a side of jasmine rice or Asian-inspired slaw for a complete meal. It’s that kind of flexibility that makes Bang Bang Shrimp the hero of weeknight dinners and the star of your dinner parties. If you’re a fan of Bang Bang sauce check out my Bang Bang Chicken recipe!
So, why should you give Bang Bang Shrimp a spot on your dinner menu? Because it’s not just another meal. It’s a bold flavor adventure that’s guaranteed to bring a little bit of joy and a lot of flavors to your table, every single time. Easy to make, easier to love – it’s the dish that keeps on giving, proving itself as a crowd-pleaser again and again. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll understand why it’s an absolute must-try.

Easy Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
- Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup chili-garlic sauce
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1 tablespoon pure honey
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp , peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 3/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil , enough for frying
- chopped parsley, for garnish
- chili flakes, for garnish
Instructions
- To prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- – Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- – Refrigerate if not using immediately.
- For the Bang Bang Shrimp:
- – Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a wide pot to 375 degrees F.
- – Add shrimp and buttermilk to a large bowl, ensuring the shrimp is coated. Allow it to soak while the oil heats.
- – In a separate large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, cayenne (or paprika), salt, and pepper.
- – Drain chicken, shake off excess buttermilk, and coat it in the seasoned cornstarch mixture.
- Arrange the breaded shrimp on a plate and refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better and stay intact during frying.- Fry the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly browned.
- – Drain fried shrimp on paper towels.
- – Toss the shrimp with the prepared Bang Bang Sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and spicy chili flakes. Serve promptly.