Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
This recipe comes together quickly and is packed with flavor. The shrimp are juicy and perfectly seasoned, while the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce coats every strand of pasta. It’s an ideal blend of heat, sweetness, and creaminess. Best of all, it feels like restaurant-quality comfort food but is made in under 30 minutes at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
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Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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Olive oil or butter
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Garlic (minced)
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Mayonnaise
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Sweet chili sauce
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Sriracha or hot sauce
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Lime juice (optional, for a tangy kick)
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Salt and pepper
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Green onions (for garnish)
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Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Directions
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice (if using). Set aside.
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Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
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Add the cooked pasta and sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.
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Heat gently for 1–2 minutes to warm through.
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Garnish with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Low-Carb: Serve the shrimp and sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
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Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
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Vegetarian: Use crispy tofu or sautéed mushrooms instead of shrimp.
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Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a more complete meal.
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Grilled Shrimp: Grill the shrimp instead of sautéing for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Microwaving works too—reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Not recommended for freezing, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a medium heat level. Adjust the sriracha to control the spice to your liking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
What kind of pasta works best?
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are ideal, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely. Chicken, scallops, or tofu can all be used in place of shrimp.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, the base sauce is naturally dairy-free if using dairy-free mayonnaise.
How can I make it healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the sauce amount, and add steamed veggies to boost nutrition.
What is Bang Bang sauce made of?
Traditionally, it’s a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for a creamy, spicy, and sweet flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and make sure all your sauce ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What side dishes go well with this?
A light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great pairings.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together the heat of sriracha, the sweetness of chili sauce, and the richness of creamy shrimp. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Keep it in your rotation for an easy meal that feels indulgent and comforting every time.
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
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Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful dish made with tender shrimp tossed in a bold sauce featuring sweet chili, sriracha, and garlic — all served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-style meal that’s quick and easy to make at home!
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- Juice of ½ lime (optional for balance)
- Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Red pepper flakes
- Chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice to make the Bang Bang sauce. Set aside.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to low. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the Bang Bang sauce and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with green onions, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use cooked frozen shrimp to save time — just thaw and warm gently.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayo.
- Works great with rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.