There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried shrimp, especially when it’s drenched in a creamy, spicy sauce that ignites your taste buds. I discovered this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe during a cozy night in when takeout was too far away, and I was craving something truly special. What started as a simple desire for a flavorful meal quickly turned into a delightful culinary adventure right in my kitchen.
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant. The shrimp become beautifully crispy, and the sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and heat, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a weeknight feast, this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is here to elevate your dinner table with bold flavors and a touch of indulgence. Let’s dive in and bring this popular dish to life!
Why is this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with a harmonious blend of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for any home cook looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, accommodating different dietary preferences while still delivering on taste.
Crispy Perfection: The delightful crunch from the Panko breadcrumbs paired with the tender shrimp creates a satisfying texture in every mouthful.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or party snack — it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering!
Healthy Option: Want a lighter version? Consider baking or air frying for guilt-free indulgence while retaining all the yummy flavors!
Don’t forget to check out other easy recipes for amazing home-cooked meals!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
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For the Batter
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Large or Jumbo Shrimp – Use cleaned and deveined shrimp for ultimate convenience.
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Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness; you can substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have it.
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides a solid structure to the batter, ensuring it adheres well to the shrimp.
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Cornstarch – Enhances that satisfying crispiness you love in a Bang Bang Shrimp recipe.
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Egg – Acts as a binder in the batter, helping everything stick together beautifully.
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Garlic Powder – Infuses a burst of flavor that takes your shrimp over the top.
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Smoked Paprika – Adds subtle smokiness and lovely color to the dish.
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Hot Sauce (e.g., Frank’s) – Gives the shrimp that spicy kick; adjust based on your preferred heat level.
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Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these!
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For the Crunch
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Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crunchy texture that makes each bite irresistible; feel free to swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need.
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Oil for Frying – Necessary for cooking the shrimp to golden perfection; choose an oil with a high smoke point for the best results.
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For the Sauce
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Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base of your irresistible sauce.
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Sweet Chili Sauce (e.g., Frank’s) – Contributes sweetness and a tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the spiciness.
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Honey – Adds an extra layer of sweetness to the sauce; adjust to taste based on your preference.
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Salt and Pepper to Taste – Used to adjust the overall flavor of the sauce, making it just right for you.
This simple yet rich assortment of ingredients is all you need for a sensational Bang Bang Shrimp experience that will keep your dinner guests coming back for more!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve—let those flavors meld together!
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Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in buttermilk, an egg, and a splash of hot sauce until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
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Coat the Shrimp: Toss the cleaned shrimp in the batter, allowing them to soak up all that deliciousness for about 10 minutes.
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Bread the Shrimp: Place Panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Take each shrimp and coat it evenly in the breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
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Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat your choice of oil over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil—keeping them crispy and delicious!
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Serve with Sauce: Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the crispy shrimp, and serve immediately while they’re still hot and crunchy.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; just mix the ingredients and refrigerate in an airtight container for maximum flavor. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in the batter and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bread the shrimp and fry them for a couple of minutes until golden brown. To maintain their delightful crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious shrimp ready to impress your family or guests in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain flavor, avoid refrigerating with the sauce already drizzled on the shrimp.
Freezer: If you have a batch that’s not been fried, you can freeze the battered shrimp for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
Reheating: For the best crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the shrimp soggy; instead, enjoy every bite fresh.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
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Fry in Batches: To achieve perfect crispiness, fry the shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of frying!
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Watch the Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp. A temperature of about 350°F (175°C) creates that golden, crunchy exterior.
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Prep Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and keep it chilled. Allowing the flavors to meld makes it even tastier when served.
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Substitution Savvy: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap regular Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions—taste won’t be compromised!
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Cook Time Monitor: Be mindful not to overcook the shrimp; aim for around 2 minutes per side, just until they’re golden brown. This keeps them juicy inside!
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Garnish Ideas: Enhance your dish’s presentation by adding fresh herbs or sliced green onions before serving—the color and flavor will elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp recipe!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
The perfect meal is a delicious dance of flavors and textures, and your Bang Bang Shrimp will shine even brighter with the right pairings.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side brings a refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
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Garlic Fried Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic enhances the dish by soaking up the creamy sauce, making it a comforting addition.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with a light vinaigrette add a crunchy, refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the shrimp.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green broccoli complements the dish visually and nutritionally, providing a healthy balance and a pop of color.
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Spicy Mango Salsa: A vibrant salsa combines sweetness with a hint of heat, pairing beautifully with the shrimp while providing a fresh burst of flavor.
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Coconut Creamed Spinach: The creamy texture and slight sweetness elevate the meal, offering a lush, tropical twist that works perfectly with spicy dishes.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings out the flavors of the shrimp while providing a refreshing sip.
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Lemon Sorbet: End your meal with a light, citrusy sorbet that cleanses the palate after the rich flavors of the Bang Bang Shrimp.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
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Baked Option: For a healthier twist, coat shrimp and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes until crispy.
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour and Panko with gluten-free alternatives for everyone to enjoy.
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Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the batter for an extra kick that will ignite your taste buds.
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Crispy Tofu: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu slices for a plant-based version that still delivers crunch and flavor.
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Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked shrimp in buffalo sauce instead of the Bang Bang sauce for a tangy, spicy makeover.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lime zest into the sauce for a bright freshness that enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Sweet and Sour: Mix sweet chili sauce with a dash of vinegar for a sweet and sour flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in freshly chopped cilantro or parsley into the sauce before serving for a pop of color and flavor!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large or jumbo shrimp that are clean and deveined. Fresh shrimp should have a slight ocean smell and should not be slimy. If you spot dark spots all over, it’s a sign of spoilage, so avoid those!
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Definitely! Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crispiness, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat. When reheating, consider using an oven instead of a microwave for the best results.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very much so! If you have un-fried battered shrimp, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together, then transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to fry, no need to thaw—just cook them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or so to the cook time.
What if my batter isn’t sticking to the shrimp?
Don’t worry, it’s a common issue! Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly coated in the batter before breading. If you find the batter running off, try letting the shrimp sit in the batter for about 10 minutes to help it adhere better. You can also adjust the batter consistency by adding a bit more flour if it feels too loose.
Is this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by swapping regular Panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative. Ensure that your flour is also labeled gluten-free. The flavors and crunch will remain just as delightful!
Can I air fry the Bang Bang Shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, indeed! For a healthier option, you can air fry the shrimp. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will still yield that crispy exterior while cutting down on oil!
Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe for Unforgettable Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until you're ready to serve—let those flavors meld together!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in buttermilk, an egg, and a splash of hot sauce until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Toss the cleaned shrimp in the batter, allowing them to soak up all that deliciousness for about 10 minutes.
- Place Panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Take each shrimp and coat it evenly in the breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
- In a skillet, heat your choice of oil over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil—keeping them crispy and delicious!
- Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the crispy shrimp, and serve immediately while they're still hot and crunchy.