This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a creamy and spicy delight! It features perfectly cooked shrimp tossed with a rich sauce and pasta, making it a satisfying meal for everyone.
You’ll love how quick and easy this dish is to whip up. I often make it when I’m craving something special without all the fuss—plus, who doesn’t love shrimp with a kick? 🍤🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for this dish. Both types hold onto the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or even spaghetti squash for a lighter option.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for this recipe. You can also use larger shrimp, just adjust the cooking time slightly. If seafood isn’t your thing, consider chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Mayonnaise: The base for the bang bang sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute—just adjust the sweetness with a bit more honey.
Sriracha: This adds heat! If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount or use a milder chili sauce. You could also replace sriracha with a bit of cayenne pepper for a different flavor.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp may seem tricky, but it’s actually quite simple! The key is to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough. Here’s how:
- Start with shrimp that are thawed and patted dry for better searing.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding shrimp, allowing them to cook quickly and evenly.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink. They continue to cook a bit after you remove them from the heat.
- Add garlic at the end so it doesn’t burn; stir constantly during the last 30 seconds.
With these tips, your shrimp will be juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Toppings:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, extra chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes of active cooking time. It includes around 10 minutes for preparing the ingredients and about 10 minutes for cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. When done, drain the pasta, but save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Whisk the mixture together until it’s smooth and well combined. Taste it and adjust the sriracha or honey based on how spicy or sweet you like it. Set this delicious sauce aside!
3. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take the shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This will add delicious flavor to the shrimp!
4. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the seasoned shrimp. Sauté them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. When the shrimp are almost done, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds—this will help the garlic get fragrant but not burnt.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the bang bang sauce over everything and toss gently to combine. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir gently until the cheese melts and coats everything nicely. This adds a creamy texture that complements the sauce!
7. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the pasta with chopped green onions. If you love a little extra spice, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
This dish is sure to impress with its creamy, spicy bang bang sauce combined with tender shrimp and pasta. It’s a fantastic meal that can come together in no time!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Make sure to pat them dry before cooking for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to lighten things up or avoid mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great alternative! It will still give you that creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness with a bit more honey to balance it out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. Tofu would also work well to absorb the flavors of the sauce! Adjust cooking times accordingly so they cook through.
