Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, where succulent shrimp and silky noodles are enveloped in a creamy yet tangy sauce that’s a true delight for your taste buds. This recipe brings the comfort of a restaurant meal right to your kitchen, combining bold flavors and quick cooking to create a dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special.

The magic happens when the shrimp soak up all the delicious seasonings, delivering a sweet and smoky taste that truly stands out in every bite. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration or a cozy family dinner, this Bang Bang Pasta never fails to impress. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the shrimp and noodles, making it a favorite that’s sure to have everyone coming back for more.

For a versatile twist, you can swap the shrimp with chicken or tofu, making it a whole new experience each time you whip up this dish. Gluten-free options and lighter sauce alternatives allow you to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it with a side of crisp salad or serving it up at a gathering, this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is bound to become a new classic in your home.

Quick Benefits

• Flavorful and Quick: Layers juicy shrimp and creamy sweet-tangy sauce over silky noodles for a fast weeknight meal that feels like restaurant comfort in your own kitchen.
• Versatile: Can be made with chicken or tofu for different variations, and adjustments can be made for dietary preferences like gluten-free or lighter options.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Lasts in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient meal prep option for busy days.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality Comfort: Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home with this flavorful and satisfying dish.
• Addictive Flavor: The sauce perfectly coats the shrimp and noodles, providing a sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Options: Customize the recipe by swapping shrimp for chicken or tofu, and try different pasta types or alternative ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Family Favorite: This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, creating lasting memories and traditions around delicious food.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time as it lasts in the fridge for up to three days, offering a convenient and quick meal option.
• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Quick to cook and assemble, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Parties: Serve this pasta at gatherings or parties for a crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily shared and enjoyed by all.
• Balanced Flavors: Experience the perfect balance of creamy and sweet chili flavors in the Bang Bang sauce, a popular and beloved sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferred taste.
• Lighter Options Available: Make healthier substitutions with light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce without compromising on creaminess or flavor.

Ingredients for Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Pasta

• 340–450 g thin spaghetti, angel hair, or gluten-free pasta

Shrimp

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 3 teaspoons paprika
• 680 g medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

Sauce

• 120 ml Thai sweet chili sauce
• 120 ml mayonnaise or light mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 30 ml lime juice
• 0.5 g crushed red pepper flakes

Pro Tips for Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To enhance the flavor of the shrimp, marinate them in the sauce for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the shrimp to soak up all the delicious flavors for an extra tasty bite.

Pro Tip 2: If you’re looking to reduce the spice level, start by adding half of the recommended amount of red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce and adjust according to your preference. You can always add more heat, but it’s harder to take it away once it’s too spicy.

Pro Tip 3: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of water to the skillet before gently heating the pasta. This helps to prevent the sauce from drying out and maintains its creamy consistency. Remember not to freeze the dish to avoid separation of the mayonnaise-based sauce.

How to Make Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Bang Bang Sauce

Combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, minced garlic, lime juice, and crushed red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Boil Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta until al dente as per package instructions, then drain.

Step 3: Season Shrimp

In a different bowl, coat peeled and deveined shrimp with paprika, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Cook Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat coconut oil. Sauté seasoned shrimp, stirring constantly, until pink and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Combine cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and prepared sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat, adjust seasoning, garnish with dried parsley, and serve.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its freshness, keep the dish in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy the pasta again, gently reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water or quickly in the microwave to preserve the creamy texture of the sauce. It’s important to avoid freezing this dish as mayonnaise-based sauces can separate when frozen.

For a twist on this recipe, you can easily customize it by using chicken breast strips or tofu instead of shrimp. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Gluten-free eaters can opt for rice noodles as a suitable alternative. In case you run out of lime juice, lemon juice can be used as a substitute. Serve this delectable pasta with a side of crisp cucumber salad or garlic sautéed green beans for a complete meal. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds and serve with a lime wedge for a delightful presentation, or create a party atmosphere by allowing guests to serve themselves from a large bowl.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, consider substituting the shrimp with chicken breast strips or tofu for a different flavor profile. Both options can absorb the delicious sweet and tangy sauce, providing a satisfying alternative.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap the regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This substitution maintains the creamy texture while reducing the overall calorie content of the dish.

Feel free to use linguine or other long pasta varieties in place of thin spaghetti or angel hair. Additionally, for gluten-free options, rice noodles are a suitable substitute that pairs well with the flavorful Bang Bang sauce and shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, try setting up a DIY Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta bar for your next gathering. Have bowls of cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and the creamy sweet chili sauce ready for guests to assemble their own plates. Add a variety of toppings like toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or crushed red pepper flakes for a customizable dining experience that will surely impress your friends and family.

To elevate your weeknight dinner, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in individual baked wonton cups for a delightful and portable meal. Simply press store-bought wonton wrappers into muffin tins and bake until crispy. Fill each cup with a scoop of the pasta and shrimp mixture, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a fancy presentation that will make any evening feel like a special occasion.

FAQs for Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, any long pasta such as linguine or gluten-free options work well with the sauce and shrimp.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat is moderate from Thai sweet chili sauce and red pepper. Adjust red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I use light mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise?

Light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can replace regular mayonnaise for a lighter creamy texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely, just thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before seasoning and sautéing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that truly captures the essence of restaurant-quality comfort in the comfort of your own home. The creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the juicy shrimp and silky noodles, creating a meal that will have your family coming back for seconds every time. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your preferences – whether by swapping the protein, adjusting the spice levels, or experimenting with different types of pasta. The versatility of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta makes it a go-to option for various occasions. I hope this dish brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine, becoming a cherished tradition and a crowd-pleaser for years to come. Enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta creation!