Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fun and spicy dish that combines tender shrimp with creamy sauce and pasta. It’s deliciously easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
The shrimp gets a little kick with sweet chili sauce, giving it that “bang bang” flavor. I love how this dish feels special but comes together quickly—just like magic! ✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using linguine for its texture, but fettuccine works just as well. If you’re gluten-free, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta options!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you could easily swap it for grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise in the sauce gives creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great alternative that adds a tangy flavor.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and a mild kick. If you like it spicier, you can add more sriracha, or use a spicy chili garlic sauce.
How Do I Make Creamy Bang Bang Sauce?
Creating a smooth and flavorful Bang Bang sauce is key to this dish. It’s simple and comes together quickly! Start by combining the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Mix well until everything is evenly blended and set aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Once the shrimp are cooked and removed, lower the heat and add heavy cream along with the Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
- Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and warm—it should be thick but pourable!
This sauce is what gives the pasta that creamy, spicy flavor that everyone loves!
BANG BANG SHRIMP PASTA
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for a dinner party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and minced garlic until smooth. This creamy sauce is what brings the bang to your pasta!
3. Prepare the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning will enhance the overall flavor of the shrimp!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Combine the Sauce and Pasta:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the bang bang sauce mixture along with heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the sauce is well combined and warmed through.
6. Toss Everything Together:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it well to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Then, return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. For an extra touch, you can serve it with lemon wedges on the side. Dig in and enjoy this deliciously spicy dish!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Pasta Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use tofu for added protein!
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can mix equal parts honey and soy sauce for a quick substitute. Adjust the sweetness and spiciness by adding a splash of hot sauce if desired.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
