BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta

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When you need a bold, creamy, and spicy dish to elevate your dinner game, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta delivers on all fronts. This recipe brings together tender spaghetti tossed in a velvety, slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce and topped with perfectly seasoned, pan-seared shrimp. It’s rich without being too heavy, spicy but still balanced, and ready in under 30 minutes — a weeknight dinner dream.

Inspired by the popular restaurant-style Bang Bang shrimp appetizer, this pasta version offers a satisfying, saucy twist. The sauce is a luscious blend of mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and garlic, creating a silky coating for the noodles and a punch of flavor in every bite. Add crispy shrimp on top, and it’s a full-on flavor explosion.

Why You’ll Love This BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta

This dish checks all the right boxes for a quick yet indulgent dinner. It’s fast, flavorful, and requires just a handful of everyday ingredients. The shrimp are juicy and slightly crisp, while the pasta is coated in a spicy-creamy sauce that’s downright addictive.

Plus, it’s a versatile recipe — you can adjust the heat level, swap the protein, or even make it gluten-free. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or treating yourself to something special, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is an easy way to impress.

What Kind of Shrimp and Pasta Work Best?

For best results, use large or extra-large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) — they cook quickly and stay juicy. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

As for the pasta, spaghetti or linguine work beautifully. You want long noodles that can hold onto the creamy sauce. Fettuccine and even angel hair can also be great alternatives depending on your preference.

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Ingredients for the BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta

Each element in this recipe has a role in building the signature flavor and texture of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:

• Shrimp – The star protein, juicy and quick to cook with just a bit of seasoning.
• Spaghetti – Long noodles work best for holding onto the luscious sauce.
• Mayonnaise – Creates the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce.
• Sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and mild heat to balance the creamy mayo.
• Sriracha – Brings a kick of spice that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor and adds a savory depth.
• Olive oil – Used for sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
• Paprika – Gives a smoky, slightly sweet coating to the shrimp.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish throughout.
• Lime juice – Brightens up the sauce and balances the richness.
• Green onions or parsley – Optional, but they add a fresh pop of color and flavor on top.

How To Make the BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly golden. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the same pan, lower the heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the cooked spaghetti and pour in the Bang Bang sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin out the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the saucy pasta and top with the cooked shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot.

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How to Serve and Store BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is best served fresh while the sauce is creamy and the shrimp are hot and tender. It’s a perfect dish for two but easily scales up to feed 4 people.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Note that shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked during reheating, so warm just until heated through.

What to Serve With BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The crispy, buttery slices are perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Cucumber Salad

A cool, refreshing cucumber salad cuts through the richness and heat.

Roasted Asparagus

Light and slightly crisp, roasted asparagus complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Avocado Salad

Creamy avocado with cherry tomatoes and lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with spicy shrimp.

Stir-Fried Veggies

A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots brings balance and crunch.

Lemon Broccolini

Sautéed broccolini with lemon zest brings a fresh, zippy contrast.

Pineapple Salsa

Sweet and tangy pineapple salsa is an unexpected but welcome tropical twist.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc makes a fantastic pairing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to get a nice sear and avoid excess water in the pan.

How spicy is this dish?
It has a medium level of spice from the sriracha and chili sauce. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha to suit your taste.

Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, but cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use gluten-free pasta and double-check the labels on your chili sauce and mayo.

What protein can I substitute for shrimp?
Chicken, tofu, or even scallops make excellent alternatives if you’re not a fan of shrimp.

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Conclusion

BANG BANG Shrimp Pasta is one of those dishes that makes you feel like a restaurant chef at home. It’s vibrant, creamy, spicy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. From its bold sauce to perfectly seared shrimp, it’s a dinner worth repeating — especially when you need something quick and special.

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