If you are on the lookout for a vibrant and indulgently flavorful meal that combines creamy, spicy, and tangy notes all in one bowl, then this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked shrimp coated in a luscious Bang Bang sauce, tossed with silky pasta and a hint of parmesan creaminess—each bite bursting with just the right amount of kick and comfort. This dish comes together quickly yet delivers on both excitement and satisfaction, making it a brilliant choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to a knockout Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe is in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each component plays a critical role, from the spices that season the shrimp to the creamy sauce that brings it all together in silky harmony.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, offering a juicy and tender bite that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the shrimp, adding a subtle richness and helping with a perfect sear.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides depth and a mild savory hit without overpowering the natural shrimp flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and lovely color to the shrimp.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce that balances spicy and sweet.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Gives a gentle sweetness with a touch of heat, key to the Bang Bang punch.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: Boosts the heat level and adds complexity; adjust depending on how spicy you want it.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Smooths out the heat with a natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or regular vinegar): Brings acidity to brighten and cut through the richness.
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your preferred type): The canvas for the shrimp and sauce, choose your favorite shape to soak up every bit of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing garlic and building the creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant, savory notes to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and luscious.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, salty hit to round out the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving): A bright, acidic squeeze to lift the entire dish.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Shrimp
Begin by tossing your large peeled and deveined shrimp in olive oil along with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning blend ensures each shrimp is packed with flavor before it even hits the pan. The paprika gives just the right smoky undertone, making the shrimp irresistible.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. It’s key not to overcook them because that will affect their tender texture. Once done, set the shrimp aside as they will soon join the creamy pasta and Bang Bang sauce for the ultimate flavor combination.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce
The Bang Bang sauce is what makes this recipe truly shine. Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. This sauce is perfectly balanced with sweetness, heat, and a touch of acidity that makes the shrimp pop. Taste and tweak the spiciness to your liking to make it your own.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining—that little trick helps you adjust the sauce to just the right consistency later on. The pasta will act as the perfect backdrop, soaking up the creamy sauce and spicy shrimp.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce Base
In the same skillet you cooked the shrimp, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then pour in heavy cream and sprinkle in Parmesan cheese. Stir it together and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. If it becomes too thick, a splash of that reserved pasta water can loosen it perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently so every strand is coated in that dreamy creamy sauce. This step is vital because you want all those delicious layers of flavor to really come together.
Step 7: Add Shrimp and Bang Bang Sauce
Now for the grand finale: gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pasta, then drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the top. Toss everything carefully until the shrimp and pasta are lavishly coated with the creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce that defines this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe.
Step 8: Final Touches and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The citrus adds an optional brightness that balances the creamy texture beautifully. Ready to eat in less than 30 minutes, this dish is as quick as it is delicious.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions adds just the right amount of color and freshness to your plate. These garnishes brighten the dish visually and provide a subtle herbal contrast that complements the vibrant flavors of Bang Bang sauce.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple sides. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli bring freshness and balance to your meal. Garlic bread is another crowd-pleaser, perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-style experience at home, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the shrimp atop the creamy bed of pasta. You could also plate the shrimp separately on skewers with a drizzle of sauce alongside the pasta, adding an elevated touch to your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be mindful that the pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits, so keep it properly sealed to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce and shrimp texture; freezing can cause separation and make the shrimp rubbery when reheated. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days of making it.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it seems thick or dry. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can toughen the shrimp; slow and gentle heat preserves the creamy texture and delicious flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to get the best texture and flavor.
How spicy is this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
The heat level is adjustable—start with less sriracha, then add more if you prefer a spicier kick. The sweet chili sauce also helps balance out the spiciness.
What type of pasta works best?
Linguine or spaghetti are excellent choices because their long, thin strands toss well with the sauce, but feel free to use your favorite shape that holds sauce nicely.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with a coconut cream or dairy-free alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor.
Is the Bang Bang sauce used only for shrimp?
While traditionally paired with shrimp, this versatile sauce is also fantastic with chicken, tofu, or drizzled over roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something utterly satisfying about a dish that combines quick preparation time, bold flavors, and creamy texture all in one. This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a special occasion, I encourage you to try it out and enjoy that luscious blend of spicy, sweet, and creamy goodness with every bite. Trust me, once you do, it’s going to be a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful and creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta combining succulent sautéed shrimp with a spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce, tossed in luscious Parmesan cream sauce over linguine or your preferred pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish offers a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors for a delightful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or regular vinegar)
Pasta and Cream Sauce
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your preferred type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth and well combined. Adjust the spice level as desired.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then set aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet used for the shrimp, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Combine Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Add the Shrimp and Bang Bang Sauce: Gently add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the pasta and shrimp, then toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional burst of freshness.
Notes
- You can adjust the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce by varying the amount of sriracha.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer, but long noodles like linguine or spaghetti work best for this dish.
- The reserved pasta water helps to loosen the cream sauce without diluting flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers may thicken upon standing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
