Bang Bang Shrimp

 

Crispy, golden shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce—Bang Bang Shrimp is the kind of recipe that disappears within minutes. Inspired by the famous restaurant favorite, this homemade version delivers the perfect balance of crunchy texture and bold flavor using simple ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store.

Whether you're serving it as an appetizer, piling it into tacos, or enjoying it over rice, Bang Bang Shrimp is guaranteed to become one of your favorite seafood recipes.


Why You'll Love It

  • Restaurant-quality at home
  • Crispy and perfectly crunchy
  • Creamy sweet chili sauce
  • Ready in only 30 minutes
  • Perfect for parties and game day
  • Great as an appetizer or main dish
  • Easily customizable spice level
  • Family favorite

About This Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp became widely popular thanks to seafood restaurants that paired crispy fried shrimp with a creamy sweet chili sauce. Its irresistible combination of crunchy shrimp and spicy, slightly sweet dressing has made it one of Pinterest's most saved seafood recipes.

This homemade version delivers the same bold flavors while allowing you to control the ingredients and freshness.


Recipe Information

Cuisine: American-Inspired

Course: Appetizer

Difficulty: Easy

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: Approximately 470 per serving


Ingredients

For the Shrimp

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Garnish

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Tongs
  • Wire rack
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Pat the shrimp dry and place them in a bowl with the buttermilk.

Let them soak for 10 minutes.


Step 2

In another bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.


Step 3

Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).


Step 4

Remove each shrimp from the buttermilk and coat thoroughly in the seasoned cornstarch.


Step 5

Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.

Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.


Step 6

Whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.


Step 7

Place the crispy shrimp in a large bowl.

Pour the sauce over the shrimp and gently toss until evenly coated.


Step 8

Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.


Chef's Tips

  • Pat the shrimp dry before soaking for extra crispiness.
  • Don't overcrowd the fryer.
  • Fry in small batches for even cooking.
  • Toss the shrimp with the sauce just before serving to keep them crispy.
  • Adjust the Sriracha to your preferred spice level.

Variations

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Spray the coated shrimp with cooking oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and avocado.

Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowls

Serve over jasmine rice with steamed vegetables.

Extra Spicy Version

Add more Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.


Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezer

Freeze the fried shrimp (without sauce) for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until crispy. Add the sauce after reheating.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before coating.

Is Bang Bang Shrimp very spicy?

No. It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the Sriracha to your taste.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What sauce is used?

A creamy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.


Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 470
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 760mg

Serving Suggestions

Pair Bang Bang Shrimp with:

  • Jasmine Rice
  • Asian Slaw
  • Steamed Broccoli
  • Garlic Fried Rice
  • Vegetable Spring Rolls
  • Cucumber Salad
  • Sweet Iced Tea
  • Mango Smoothie

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp is proof that restaurant-quality appetizers can be made right in your own kitchen. With its crispy golden coating and creamy sweet chili sauce, this crowd-pleasing favorite is packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying game day, or simply craving a delicious seafood dish, this recipe is sure to impress and earn a permanent spot in your collection.

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