Bang Bang Shrimp – Easy Recipe You’ll Crave Again

Crispy, spicy, and irresistibly creamy, Bang Bang Shrimp is a game-changing appetizer that blends bold Thai-inspired flavors with classic fried shrimp. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning game-day snacks, or just want a restaurant-style treat at home, this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe brings a satisfying crunch and sweet-heat punch in every bite. Made in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this easy, crowd-pleasing dish.

Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Stands Out

This Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t just a copycat of the Bonefish Grill favorite — it’s better, more affordable, and made with pantry staples. The crispy coating stays crunchy even after being tossed in a luscious bang bang sauce. What makes this version a keeper?

• Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for last-minute cravings.
• Full of Flavor: The combo of garlic, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha creates a perfectly balanced sauce.
• Budget-Friendly: Skip the restaurant bill and make this trendy dish at home.
• Versatile: Serve it in tacos, lettuce wraps, or over rice for a complete meal.

This recipe gives you juicy shrimp encased in a golden crust, drenched in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that’s nothing short of addictive.

What You’ll Need for Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp

Each ingredient in this Bang Bang Shrimp plays a crucial role in achieving texture, flavor, and the signature finish that makes this dish shine.

• Shrimp: Peeled and deveined large shrimp deliver juiciness and are the ideal size for quick frying.
• Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the bang bang sauce, balancing spice and adding richness.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings a sticky sweetness with a mild heat for depth and complexity.
• Sriracha: Adds a bold kick and rounds out the sauce’s spice profile.
• Garlic: Enhances the aroma and sharpens the savory notes in the sauce.
• Whole Milk: Used in the dredging mixture to help bind the coating to the shrimp.
• Sour Cream: Adds slight tang and creaminess to the milk mixture, enhancing the shrimp’s texture.
• Lemon Juice: Cuts through the richness with bright acidity, keeping flavors fresh.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for a light, crispy coating on the shrimp.
• Cornstarch: Creates an ultra-crispy exterior and improves the golden finish.
• Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky depth to the flour mixture.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the shrimp and enhancing overall flavor.
• Oil for Frying (Canola, Olive, or Avocado): Ensures even frying and a non-greasy finish.

Smart Ingredient Swaps for Any Pantry

Not everyone has every ingredient on hand. Here are some smart, effective substitutions without compromising flavor.

• Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise: A healthier option with a tangy twist.
• Buttermilk Instead of Milk/Sour Cream/Lemon Juice: Combines the same tangy richness in one ingredient.
• Chili Garlic Sauce Instead of Sriracha: For a different kind of heat and texture.
• Panko Breadcrumbs Instead of Flour/Cornstarch Mix: For a crunchier, more textured coating.
• Pre-cooked Shrimp: If time is tight, skip frying and simply warm the shrimp before tossing in the sauce.

These swaps make the Bang Bang Shrimp recipe adaptable for different diets and pantry limitations.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Step-by-Step

Mastering Bang Bang Shrimp is easier than you think. Follow these steps for a golden, crispy finish and bold flavor in every bite.

1. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, minced garlic, and sriracha. Mix well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Peel, devein, and pat the shrimp dry completely. This step ensures a crisp coating.
3. Mix the Milk Coating: In one bowl, combine whole milk, sour cream, and lemon juice. Dredge all shrimp in this mixture.
4. Make the Flour Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika. Coat the shrimp evenly and lay them on a platter.
5. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, add 1–1½ inches of oil and heat to 325°F. Use a thermometer to keep oil at the right temp.
6. Fry the Shrimp: Working in batches, fry shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding.
7. Toss in Sauce: Once all shrimp are fried and slightly cooled, toss gently in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated.
8. Serve Immediately: Plate and enjoy while warm and crispy.

Pro Tips to Perfect Your Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oil Temperature Matters: Keep your frying oil at a steady 325°F. Too hot will burn the coating; too cool will make it greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temp consistent and ensure crispiness.
• Dry Your Shrimp: Moisture is the enemy of a crisp crust. Always pat shrimp dry before dredging.
• Use a Cooling Rack: Instead of paper towels, place fried shrimp on a wire rack to preserve crunch.
• Toss Gently: Coat shrimp in sauce just before serving to keep the crust intact.

These little details will take your Bang Bang Shrimp from good to phenomenal.

Creative Ways to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp

This dish is wildly versatile — don’t just stop at serving it as an appetizer. Here are some tasty ideas to make it a main course or exciting side.

• Shrimp Tacos: Load into flour tortillas with shredded lettuce, avocado, and lime crema.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use crispy iceberg or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Bang Bang Shrimp Bowls: Serve over jasmine rice with shredded carrots and cucumbers for a nourishing meal.
• Party Platter: Add to a grazing board with spring rolls, edamame, and dipping sauces.
• Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta: Mix with cooked linguine or fettuccine and drizzle with extra sauce for a spicy seafood pasta.

These variations keep the Bang Bang Shrimp excitement going all week long.

Lighter and Seasonal Versions You’ll Love

Looking for a better-for-you take on Bang Bang Shrimp or want to add seasonal flair? Here are a few suggestions to fit your dietary goals or the time of year.

• Air-Fried Bang Bang Shrimp: Skip the deep fry and use an air fryer for a lower-fat version that still delivers crunch.
• Grilled Shrimp Version: Grill the shrimp and drizzle with bang bang sauce for a summer-friendly dish.
• Gluten-Free Coating: Use rice flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
• Seasonal Garnishes: Top with fresh mango salsa in summer or roasted sweet potatoes in fall for added flavor and texture.

By tweaking the cooking method or additions, you can make this dish work year-round for every lifestyle.

Conclusion: Why Bang Bang Shrimp Is a Must-Try Recipe

Whether you’re making a small batch for yourself or serving a crowd, Bang Bang Shrimp delivers every time. The contrast of crispy fried shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. With its simple ingredients, customizable options, and under-30-minute cook time, this recipe is destined to become a household favorite. From taco fillings to rice bowls or party platters, there are countless ways to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp — and you’ll love every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Shrimp

More Relevant Recipes

• Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe: This flavorful shrimp recipe brings a balance of sweet and savory, similar to Bang Bang Shrimp, with a sticky garlic glaze that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles for a fast and satisfying meal.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: If you love the creamy heat of Bang Bang Shrimp, this pasta recipe adds smoky Cajun spices and a luscious sauce over pasta for a Southern-inspired twist that’s bold and comforting.
• Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken: While using chicken instead of shrimp, this dish delivers a similar punch of bold, creamy, and spicy flavors, baked to perfection with melty cheese and vibrant bell peppers for a Tex-Mex-style meal.

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