Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fun and tasty dish that brings together crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy sauce with tender pasta. The sauce has just the right amount of kick from the bang bang sauce, making every bite exciting without being too hot. It’s such a satisfying mix of flavors and textures that’s quick to make on any busy night.
I love making this dish because it feels special but doesn’t take forever in the kitchen. The shrimp cook up so fast, and the sauce comes together in just a few minutes, which means I get to enjoy it without the wait. I usually toss the pasta right into the sauce so it soaks up all that yummy bang bang flavor—trust me, every noodle tastes better that way.
When I serve this, I like to sprinkle a little fresh green onion or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. It’s also great with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to help mop up any leftover sauce. This recipe always brings smiles around the table, and I find myself making it over and over again because it’s just that good.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well here. If fresh isn’t available, thaw frozen shrimp fully before cooking to keep them tender. You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different twist.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This gives the sauce its signature sweetness and mild heat. If you don’t have it, mix honey with a splash of hot sauce or chili paste as a substitute.
Mayonnaise: It makes the sauce creamy and rich. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or sour cream instead.
Spices & Heat: Paprika adds warmth, while sriracha brings the spicy kick. Feel free to adjust the sriracha amount to match your heat tolerance.
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are best for holdin’ the sauce, but fettuccine or even angel hair can work. Just cook until al dente to avoid mushy noodles.
How Do You Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked Without Overdoing It?
Shrimp cook quickly, so timing is key to avoid rubbery bites. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Season shrimp just before cooking for extra flavor.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high and add oil so the shrimp sear nicely.
- Cook shrimp 2-3 minutes per side; you’ll see them turn pink and curl slightly.
- Remove immediately once opaque to prevent overcooking. They will continue cooking a bit off the heat.
Using the same skillet for the sauce preserves the flavors from shrimp, making the whole dish taste cohesive and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without crowding.
- Large skillet or frying pan – I like using this to cook shrimp and then make the sauce in the same pan for easy cleanup.
- Strainer or colander – helps drain pasta quickly and keeps it firm.
- Mixing bowl – useful for whisking together the bang bang sauce ingredients easily.
- Tongs or pasta fork – makes tossing and serving the pasta with shrimp a breeze.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp with grilled chicken strips for a milder, meatier option that still soaks up the sauce well.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or snap peas for a sweet crunch that brightens the dish.
- Try adding a handful of crushed peanuts on top for extra texture and a nutty contrast.
- Mix in fresh spinach leaves at the end for a pop of color and nutrition without changing the flavor much.
Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes total. It includes 10 minutes to cook pasta and shrimp, and about 5-10 minutes to make the sauce, combine everything, and serve. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, saving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set it aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir it into the garlic butter. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together well, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and optional lime juice. Sprinkle with green onions or cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your warm, creamy, and flavorful Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking by placing them in the fridge overnight or running under cold water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
You can reduce or omit the sriracha sauce to lower the heat level. Alternatively, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of cream to mellow out the spiciness without losing flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Substitute the Pasta with Something Else?
Absolutely! You can swap linguine or spaghetti for fettuccine, angel hair, or even a gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta type.
