If you’re craving something that perfectly blends bold, creamy, and spicy flavors with a satisfying pasta, the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe is sure to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Imagine succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp enveloped in a luscious, tangy sauce with just the right kick, all tossed together with tender pasta and a hint of garlic—this dish delivers a flavor experience that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color. From the spice-kissed shrimp to the creamy, cheesy sauce, these simple staples come together beautifully without fuss.
- 1 lb large shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp form the tender, protein-packed star of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in perfectly sautéing the shrimp and garlic, adding richness without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the shrimp seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a mild smoky flavor and lovely color to the shrimp.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every element of the dish.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that provides the sauce’s signature silky texture.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a gentle heat, balancing the dish’s flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: Packs that spicy punch that makes “Bang Bang” truly bang.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Rounds out the sauce with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Introduces a slight tang to brighten and balance the creamy sauce.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta to soak up every bit of sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce): Used to gently cook garlic, providing fragrant depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with savory, aromatic flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, rich base for the pasta sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley or green onions: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and brightness.
- Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze of lemon juice can add a zesty finish that cuts through the richness.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Shrimp
Start by tossing the peeled and deveined shrimp in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning blend will ensure each shrimp is flavorful and slightly smoky, creating a delicious base for the dish. It’s so easy, yet it transforms the shrimp into a perfect piece of little bites that’ll make you smile.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp to Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a nice pink color and firm texture that’s juicy but not overcooked. Once done, set them aside while you focus on the pasta and sauce—no one likes rubbery shrimp!
Step 3: Whisk Together the Signature Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk the ingredients until smooth and creamy. This sauce is what makes the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe truly stand out—balancing spicy, sweet, and tangy notes in every bite. Don’t forget to adjust the sriracha to match your heat preference!
Step 4: Cook Your Pasta
Now, get your pasta cooking according to the package directions. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of pasta water when draining, since it will help you adjust the sauce later. The pasta you choose will soak up the creamy sauce, making every forkful a delight.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the skillet used for the shrimp, heat olive oil and lightly sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese, stirring well. Allow it to simmer on low heat until it thickens just right—creamy, cheesy, and perfect for coating the pasta. If the sauce is a bit too thick, the reserved pasta water is your magic fix to loosen it up.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss so every strand is luxuriously covered in the creamy garlic sauce. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, then drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over everything. Toss lightly once more to make sure each bite delivers that signature bang of flavor in the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges if you like a citrusy touch that brightens the entire plate—trust me, the lemon juice adds a delightful zing that you’ll crave every time.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chopped green onions add a burst of color and a hint of freshness that balances the creamy, spicy sauce wonderfully. A squeeze of lemon juice right before eating adds an extra layer of brightness that lifts all the flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crunchy green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread for an indulgent, carb-loaded feast. Steamed or roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli also complement the richness of the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe beautifully by adding texture and subtle earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation at your next dinner party, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe in individual bowls topped with slivers of fresh chili or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. You can also add a colorful side of pickled red onions or a quick slaw to bring a little crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the lemon wedges separate to maintain their fresh juice for serving later. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
While you can freeze the shrimp and pasta, it’s best to freeze the sauce and shrimp separately as the creamy texture may change slightly after thawing. Package them well in freezer-safe containers and thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwave reheating works too—just cover the dish and stir halfway through to keep it creamy and yummy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps you get that perfect sear and prevents excess moisture from diluting your sauce.
How spicy is the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
The spice level is totally adjustable! The sriracha adds a moderate heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount to suit your taste. The sweet chili sauce also balances the heat with sweetness, so it’s a perfect combo for many palates.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Linguine and spaghetti are classic choices because their shape holds the creamy sauce well, but feel free to experiment with fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options. The key is to use a pasta that carries sauce beautifully.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
While shrimp is central to this dish, you can swap the shrimp with crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Just toss your chosen protein in the Bang Bang sauce and combine with the pasta as usual.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Give it a good stir before adding it to your pasta and shrimp to keep that creamy, luscious texture intact.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treat but comes together with surprising ease. Its irresistible blend of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors will quickly turn this into a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’re going to fall in love by the very first bite!
Print
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Description
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant and creamy dish featuring tender, pan-seared shrimp tossed in a spicy and tangy Bang Bang sauce. Combined with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this 30-minute recipe offers a flavorful fusion with a balance of heat, sweetness, and richness, garnished with fresh herbs and optional lemon wedges for brightness.
Ingredients
Shrimp Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or regular vinegar)
Pasta and Cream Sauce
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your preferred type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to season evenly.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. Adjust spice level to taste.
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Add the Shrimp and Bang Bang Sauce: Gently toss the cooked shrimp into the pasta. Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Offer lemon wedges on the side for optional squeezing to add brightness to the dish.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Use linguine, spaghetti, or any long pasta you prefer for this recipe.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, though it will change the flavor slightly.
- Ensure shrimp is cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
