Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that combines spicy shrimp with creamy sauce and pasta. It’s quick to make, perfect for a dinner that feels fancy without too much fuss!
This dish makes my taste buds dance! The shrimp are crispy and packed with flavor. I love serving it with a sprinkle of green onions—just a little pop of color goes a long way! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend linguine for a nice twist, but spaghetti works great too! If you’re gluten-free, try using rice noodles or chickpea pasta, which adds protein as well.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used. If you can’t find medium shrimp, jumbo ones are fine too—just adjust the cooking time. For a vegetarian option, consider crispy tofu for a similar texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a wonderful crunch. If you don’t have any, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a different crunch.
Mayonnaise: This makes the sauce creamy. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use Greek yogurt instead. It adds a nice tang without sacrificing creaminess!
Sriracha: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you prefer mild, you could use a dash of smoked paprika for smokiness without heat.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, so here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a heated skillet to achieve that nice golden color. Shrimp cook quickly—about 2 minutes on each side is usually perfect!
- Look for a pink hue and the shrimp will curl into a ‘C’ shape when done. Avoid overcooking as they become rubbery.
Using panko breadcrumbs helps create a crispy exterior. Just make sure they’re evenly coated and watch them cook to golden perfection!
How Can You Make the Sauce Extra Creamy?
If you want to enhance the creaminess of your sauce, here are some tips:
- Add a splash of pasta cooking water while mixing to achieve a smoother consistency.
- For an extra creamy texture, mix in a bit of cream cheese or ricotta along with the mayo.
Ultimately, the key is to mix well and adjust to your liking. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Crunch:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and the remaining time is for making the sauce and combining everything together. Quick, easy, and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water for later.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium-sized bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, and panko breadcrumbs until they’re evenly coated. This will give your shrimp a lovely crunch!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the coated shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden and are cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. We want to be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Combine and Heat Up the Sauce:
Now, add mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and chicken broth (or that reserved pasta water) to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
6. Toss the Pasta:
Once the sauce is ready, throw the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss it well to ensure every strand is coated with that creamy, delicious sauce.
7. Add the Shrimp:
Gently return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss again to combine everything nicely—it’s all about getting those flavors to mingle!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle it generously with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch. Don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!
9. Enjoy!
Your flavorful, creamy, and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is ready to eat! Dig in and enjoy every mouthful!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Is There a Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It will add a nice tang while maintaining a creamy texture. You could also use sour cream if you prefer!
Can I Prepare This Pasta Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet before mixing in the cooked pasta.
What Can I Pair with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. If you’re looking for something heartier, garlic bread or a side of roasted asparagus complements the flavors beautifully!
