Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Chili Mayo Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Large Shrimp (U31-40 size); 1 cup Buttermilk (Tenderizes the shrimp); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavors); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Adds savory depth); 1 tsp Onion Powder (Rich flavor); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Touch of heat); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (For coating); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Use high-quality varieties); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce; 1-2 tbsp Sriracha Hot Sauce (Adjust based on spice preference)

“Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside” might just be the most satisfying culinary phrase I know, especially when it comes to preparing Easy Bang Bang Shrimp. This dish not only delivers that delightful crunch but also elevates your dinner table with a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights, this bang bang shrimp recipe can be ready in just 30 minutes! It’s the ideal blend of flavors for those craving a restaurant-style experience at home. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos for a fun twist. Have your taste buds been itching for something new? Let’s dive in and create a dish that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds!

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a must-try?

Flavor Bomb: This Easy Bang Bang Shrimp is a culinary revelation, offering a perfect blend of crispy shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy individuals, this dish can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for any weeknight dinner.

Versatile Options: Whether served as an appetizer or tucked into tacos, it’s a perfect match for any occasion—your guests will love it!

Crispy Texture: Using cornstarch as a coating ensures every bite is light and crunchy, reminiscent of your favorite fried chicken but with a seafood twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavor profile, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings.

For more quick and delicious seafood ideas, check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp or explore the vibrant flavors of Bang Bang Chicken!

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

• Discover what makes this dish unforgettable!

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Look for U31-40 size for perfect bite-sized pieces.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating stick.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavors.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth, elevating your Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Onion Powder – Complements the shrimp with rich flavor.
• Black Pepper – A touch of heat to enhance the overall taste.
• Cornstarch – A lighter, crispier alternative to flour for coating.

For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Use high-quality varieties like Kewpie for an authentic flavor base.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Brings a delightful sweetness to the sauce.
• Sriracha Hot Sauce – Adjust based on your spice preference for the Bang Bang Shrimp.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re on your way to creating a delightful dish that will have everyone talking! Let’s dive further into the cooking process!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the large shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 10 minutes, ensuring all the flavors penetrate the shrimp. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp turns a slightly opaque color and has absorbed the seasonings.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the shrimp marinates, place cornstarch in a shallow dish. After marinating, dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess coating. Transfer the coated shrimp to a baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer to prepare for frying.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large pot, pour in enough oil to reach about 1½ inches in height. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, carefully drop in a small piece of batter; it should sizzle and quickly rise to the surface.

Step 4: Fry Shrimp
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry them for approximately 2 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to check for doneness, ensuring the internal temperature of the shrimp reaches 145°F (63°C), then remove them to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha hot sauce. Stir well until the ingredients are fully blended, adjusting the amount of Sriracha based on your desired spice level. This creamy sauce will complement your Bang Bang Shrimp perfectly.

Step 6: Coat Shrimp
Once the shrimp are all fried and crispy, place them in the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated in the creamy, spicy mixture. Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately for the best texture and flavor, garnishing as desired.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them refrigerated to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch up to 3 days ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming damp. When it’s time to serve, simply heat oil and fry the shrimp as directed, then toss them in the creamy sauce for that delicious Bang Bang experience! Preparing in advance means you’ll enjoy a fantastic meal with minimal effort during busy nights.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp

Bring your dinner table to life with mouthwatering sides that complement the vibrant flavors of this dish!

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp, adding a cool contrast to each bite.
Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice is the perfect canvas for soaking up the delicious sauce, enhancing every mouthful of shrimp.
Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious side brings bright color and a pleasing crunch, offering a healthy touch to your meal that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm bread adds a comforting element, perfect for enjoying alongside your Bang Bang Shrimp.

For a casual twist, consider making tacos filled with the Bang Bang Shrimp, topped with fresh avocado and cilantro, creating a fun and flavorful handheld treat!

Margaritas: A zesty margarita with a hint of lime nicely complements the spicy notes of the shrimp, making it an ideal pairing for a relaxing evening.

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Keep it covered to maintain flavor and moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Bang Bang Shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight bag after freezing. It can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat the shrimp in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Preparation Tips: For best results, only prepare what you plan to eat fresh. The tender, crispy texture and zesty flavors shine brightest right after cooking.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F for optimal crispiness; too hot can burn the batter before the shrimp cook through.
Batch Frying: Fry shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which allows for even cooking and a perfect crunch on every piece.
Marination Time: Don’t skip the marination step! It enhances the flavors and ensures tender shrimp, making your Bang Bang Shrimp unforgettable.
Crispiness Control: If you want an even lighter batter, consider substituting buttermilk with sparkling water; it can make the coating more airy.
Sauce Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with your spice level in the sauce—add more Sriracha for heat or try a milder chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
Storing Leftovers: While best served fresh, store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Bang Bang Shrimp experience with these exciting twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Chicken Substitute: Swap shrimp for chicken tenders for a delicious alternative. A crispy, tender bite that everyone will love!
Vegetarian Tofu: Use firm tofu for a plant-based version. Just coat and fry as you would shrimp—it’s flavorful and satisfying!
Crispy Cauliflower: For a veggie-packed option, replace shrimp with cauliflower florets. They will crisp up beautifully and absorb all the tasty sauce.
Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding more or less Sriracha in the sauce. A milder chili sauce works for those who prefer a gentler kick.
Flavored Mayo: Experiment by stirring in a touch of lemon zest or garlic into the mayo for an extra flavor punch. It’s a small twist that makes a big difference!
Crunchy Coating: Mix in some panko breadcrumbs with cornstarch for an even crunchier texture that adds an amazing bite to your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Sriracha Drizzle: Don’t just toss the shrimp in the sauce—reserve some and drizzle it over the top for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor!
Taco Twist: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp in soft tortillas with coleslaw and avocado for a fun, fusion-style taco night.

To elevate your culinary repertoire, don’t miss trying out my scrumptious Garlic Butter Shrimp or the savory goodness of Bang Bang Chicken!

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, opt for U31-40 size for perfect bite-sized pieces. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and a translucent color. Avoid any with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as this indicates they may not be fresh.

What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
I recommend storing leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for about 1 day; just be sure to cover it well to retain flavor and moisture. If you want to enjoy it later, I suggest freezing it.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very! To freeze Bang Bang Shrimp, lay it in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until solid. After about an hour, transfer the shrimp to an airtight freezer bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy texture!

What should I do if my shrimp batter isn’t crispy?
Common troubleshooting! If your shrimp batter turns out soggy, it may be that the oil temperature was too low. Always heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp. Fry in small batches as overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy shrimp. For extra crispiness, consider using cornstarch instead of flour for the coating.

Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Of course! If serving to guests with dietary restrictions or allergies, be mindful of the mayonnaise in the sauce, which is typically made from eggs. You can substitute with a vegan mayonnaise if needed. Additionally, for gluten-free options, you can replace cornstarch with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Always double-check labels if allergies are a concern!