Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a bold, creamy, and spicy dish inspired by the famous Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. This dish combines tender shrimp, a luscious and slightly sweet chili sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to deliver restaurant-quality flavor in a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With its signature creamy heat and satisfying bite, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ Fast & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes! ✅ Flavor Explosion – Creamy, spicy, sweet, and savory all in one. ✅ Restaurant-Style at Home – No need to dine out to enjoy Bang Bang flavor. ✅ Customizable – Adjust spice levels and ingredients to your taste.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Juice of 1/2 lime (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—add more Sriracha for spice, honey for sweetness, or lime for tang.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Remove shrimp from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to low.
- Add drained pasta and pour in the Bang Bang sauce.
- Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Add Shrimp and Finish
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Cook for another minute to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
✔️ Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp cook quickly and stay tender. ✔️ Don’t Overcook Shrimp: They turn rubbery when overdone—remove as soon as they’re pink. ✔️ Adjust the Heat: Control the spice level by reducing or increasing the Sriracha. ✔️ Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to get the perfect creamy texture.
Variations
🍗 Bang Bang Chicken Pasta: Substitute chicken breast for shrimp. 🥦 Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. 🧀 Creamier Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese. 🍜 Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Serving Suggestions
🥗 Pair with a light side salad with Asian sesame dressing. 🍞 Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up extra sauce. 🍷 Enjoy with a chilled white wine like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or milk.
- Note: Sauce may thicken when refrigerated—stir well when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fun, flavorful fusion of creamy pasta and spicy seafood that’s perfect for spicing up your dinner rotation. It’s bold, delicious, and quick to make—ideal for impressing guests or satisfying your own cravings. One bite and you’ll see why this saucy sensation is a favorite! 🍤🌶️🍝