Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the kind of irresistible, flavor-packed dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into something really special. Imagine juicy shrimp sautéed to perfection, tossed with tender noodles, and smothered in a creamy, sweet and spicy sauce. This eye-catching bowlful somehow feels both decadent and refreshingly simple. It’s my favorite fusion comfort food to whip up when craving something bold yet comforting, and I absolutely love sharing it with friends and family. Trust me, this pasta will quickly become your go-to for quick dinners that still feel restaurant-worthy.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is how unfussy the grocery list is. Each ingredient plays its part: building layers of creamy, zesty, and slightly sweet heat, with beautiful color from the fresh herbs. Here’s what you’ll want for the perfect bite:

Spaghetti or linguine (8 ounces): The pasta of your choice acts as the canvas for all that saucy goodness—choose a shape that holds sauce well.
Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): The star of the show—makes every bite tender and juicy, soaking up all the flavors.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle for sautéing the shrimp brings out the best flavor, while keeping things light.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the shrimp and balancing the sauce’s sweet and spicy notes.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Gives the sauce its signature rich, silky texture—don’t skimp!
Thai sweet chili sauce (1/4 cup): Delivers the iconic sweet heat that ties everything together.
Sriracha (1 tablespoon, adjust to taste): Adds warmth and extra zing; feel free to crank it up if you love spice.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): The aromatic backbone that perfumes every forkful—fresh is best.
Juice of 1/2 lime: A citrusy lift that brightens the whole dish and balances out the richness.
Chopped green onions (2 tablespoons): For a pop of color and crunch—save some for a snappy garnish.
Chopped parsley or cilantro (optional): Adds freshness and a gorgeous green finish—use whichever you love!

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Drop in your spaghetti or linguine and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, scoop out about 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s liquid gold for loosening your sauce later if needed! Set your pasta aside, ready to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

While the pasta simmers, whisk up your sauce in a small bowl. Blend together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, minced garlic, and lime juice until everything is completely smooth and creamy. Taste for heat and sweetness—if you want it spicier, this is your chance to stir in a little more Sriracha.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add your olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side; you’ll know they’re ready when they curl up and turn opaque pink. Don’t overcook—nothing ruins Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta like rubbery shrimp!

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Once the shrimp are just cooked, add the drained pasta and all of your Bang Bang sauce right into the skillet. Turn the heat down low and gently toss everything together until each strand is coated in creamy goodness. If the sauce seems a bit thick, drizzle in that reserved pasta water until it’s glossy and luscious.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Transfer your saucy pasta to bowls or a big platter. Scatter the green onions and a handful of chopped parsley or cilantro over the top. Serve immediately, so everyone gets the full effect of hot, juicy shrimp tangled with those spicy, velvety noodles!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A lively tangle of chopped green onions is a must for crunch and color. I love to shower mine with fresh parsley or cilantro right before serving for a hit of green that just makes the whole plate pop. For a little extra spark, a final drizzle of Sriracha or a few thinly sliced chilis never go amiss.

Side Dishes

Since Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is plenty rich, pair it with something light and crisp—think a simple Asian-style slaw or a platter of lightly dressed cucumbers. Warm, crusty bread is another favorite for mopping up every last drop of sauce. Even a handful of steamed edamame rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta family-style in a big, beautiful bowl, or portion it into individual plates for a dinner party-worthy presentation. For a fun twist, twirl the pasta into little nests and top each with a big, juicy shrimp—so elegant! If you’re feeling playful, serve in mini bowls as part of an Asian fusion tapas spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta (the best kind of problem!), let it cool, then pack it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for up to two days, and the flavors often get even richer overnight.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, though I recommend it only for the sauce and pasta, as shrimp can become a little mushy after thawing. Portion into freezer-safe containers, but for best texture and taste, add freshly cooked shrimp when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream, milk, or even just a spoonful of water. This loosens the sauce and helps keep the shrimp tender. Microwave works in a pinch, but watch closely to avoid overcooking the seafood.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp work perfectly and still soak up that luscious sauce.

How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

It has a gentle kick thanks to Sriracha and chili sauce, but you control the heat. Start mild and add more Sriracha or even red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Sub in your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your sweet chili sauce for hidden gluten. You’ll still get all the flavor, minus the wheat.

Is there a lighter version of the sauce?

For a skinnier take, swap half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It’ll stay tangy and creamy, with fewer calories and a little more protein.

What can I use instead of shrimp?

If you’re not a shrimp fan, diced chicken breast or even pan-fried tofu are tasty alternatives. Both soak up the sauce beautifully and keep the spirit of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is one of those rare recipes that never disappoints, no matter how many times it appears on the table. The bold, creamy, and spicy flavors hit all the right notes for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a favorite in your own kitchen!

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a tantalizing fusion of flavors with this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta recipe. Succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a creamy, spicy sauce come together to create a dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

8 ounces spaghetti or linguine

For the Shrimp:

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lime

For Garnish:

2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Chopped parsley or cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, garlic, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Combine and Toss: Add the cooked pasta and sauce to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together over low heat until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen.
Serve: Serve immediately, topped with chopped green onions and fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.