If you are craving a dish that delivers flavor, creaminess, and just the right amount of spice, look no further than Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. This vibrant recipe combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with crispy, paprika-seasoned shrimp all coated in a luscious sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, zesty lime, and a punch of sriracha. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta will dazzle your taste buds and impress anyone you serve it to with its irresistible balance of heat, tang, and creaminess.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but impactful ingredients makes this recipe straightforward yet incredibly flavorful. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing together the signature creamy, spicy, and citrusy profile of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta.

8 ounces spaghetti (or linguine pasta): Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up the sauce perfectly.
¾ cup mayonnaise: This base adds the creamy richness that defines the sauce’s texture.
⅓ cup sweet chili sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and a gentle heat that balances the spice.
2 limes (juiced): Fresh lime juice adds vibrant acidity to brighten the dish overall.
2 tablespoons sriracha: For that spicy kick that makes it “bang.” Adjust to taste if you prefer milder heat.
12 ounces medium shrimp (deveined and peeled): The star protein that delivers satisfying texture and flavor.
2 cloves garlic (finely minced): Garlic infuses the shrimp with aromatic depth.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and color to the shrimp.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the shrimp perfectly.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a gentle savory undertone to the seasoning.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or olive oil): Needed to sear the shrimp to a perfect golden finish.
1 tablespoon parsley (chopped): Fresh parsley adds a pop of green and freshness as a final garnish.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the pasta from within and enhances its natural flavor. Cook your spaghetti or linguine until al dente — tender but still firm to the bite — according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, and sriracha. This combination forms the luscious and spicy sauce that is the heart of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. Set this aside for later so the flavors can meld while you cook the shrimp.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

Take your medium shrimp and toss them in a large bowl with minced garlic, paprika, salt, and onion powder. This simple seasoning pack layers of savory and smoky flavor that perfectly complement the creamy sauce. Toss gently to make sure every shrimp is evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Spread the shrimp out in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they turn nearly opaque and start to develop a beautiful golden color. Proper searing gives the shrimp a delightful texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce into the skillet with the shrimp. Stir to coat everything evenly and continue cooking for about 5 minutes. During this time, the sauce will warm and thicken a bit, clinging luxuriously to each shrimp. This step melds all the spicy, creamy, and tangy notes you love.

Step 6: Toss Pasta with Shrimp and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet and gently toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated with the sauce and studded with those succulent shrimp. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh contrast.

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A touch of freshly chopped parsley not only adds lovely color but also a slight herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. If you want to add another layer of brightness, a few thin lime wedges on the side invite an extra squeeze of citrus. For heat lovers, an additional drizzle of sriracha right before serving gives it a fiery boost.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple sides. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed, garlicky green beans complements the creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta perfectly without overwhelming your palate. Crusty garlic bread is a fantastic choice too, great for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished beautifully with parsley and lime. Alternatively, plate the shrimp on top of a nest of pasta for a restaurant-style look that makes dinner feel extra special. Adding a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds can bring a subtle crunch and an unexpected twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep freshly for up to 2 days, making it a convenient meal for busy days while still tasting delicious when reheated.

Freezing

Because of the creamy sauce and shrimp, freezing isn’t ideal as textures can change after thawing, often leaving the shrimp rubbery and the sauce separating. If you must freeze, separate pasta and shrimp into different containers and thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to warm everything evenly without overcooking the shrimp. This method keeps the texture tender and the flavors bright.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce and ensures the shrimp sear properly.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?

If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that still provides creaminess and tang, though it will change the flavor slightly. For a vegan alternative, try using a plant-based mayo.

Is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta very spicy?

The spice level is moderate and balanced with sweetness and creaminess, but you can always adjust the sriracha to your heat preference. For less spice, reduce or omit the sriracha altogether.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the spaghetti or linguine for gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or legumes. The sauce and shrimp seasoning are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy tweak.

How long does it take to prepare Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

This flavorful dish comes together in about 25 to 30 minutes, which means you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table with minimal effort on a busy night.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a recipe that belongs in your go-to rotation. It’s easy to make, bursting with exciting flavors, and feels indulgent without requiring tons of time or complicated ingredients. Next time you want to wow your family or friends, give this dish a try – it’s sure to become a favorite as it has for me.