Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, zesty fusion dish that blends tender shrimp, silky noodles, and a bold Thai-inspired sauce. It’s the kind of meal that delivers restaurant-quality comfort at home in under 30 minutes. With a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and citrusy flavors, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple to make.
Introduction
If you’ve ever tasted the famous Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer, you already know how addictive it can be. This pasta version takes that same sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor and transforms it into a hearty, comforting meal.
Imagine perfectly sautéed shrimp coated in a smooth, spicy-sweet sauce, twirled together with tender strands of pasta. Every bite brings a creamy texture, a gentle kick from Thai sweet chili sauce, and a refreshing zing of lime.
Whether you’re cooking for family, a romantic dinner, or simply craving something bold and flavorful, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta delivers every time. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet indulgent enough to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes.
- Uses simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- Restaurant-level flavor: Creamy, spicy, and balanced with citrus brightness.
- Versatile: Works with shrimp, chicken, or tofu — and gluten-free pasta too.
- Family favorite: Even kids love its creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
The first time I made this dish for my family, it vanished within minutes. The shrimp absorbed the flavors beautifully, and the sauce clung to the pasta just right — creamy, bold, and perfectly balanced.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Shrimp
- 300 g thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta (or gluten-free pasta)
- 400 g medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (unrefined preferred for flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tsp dried parsley
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- ⅓ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Blend until the mixture becomes silky smooth.
Set aside — you can warm it slightly in the microwave for 20–30 seconds if you prefer a warm sauce.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta but do not rinse it — this helps the sauce cling better to the noodles.
Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, toss them with paprika, black pepper, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
Let the shrimp rest for 5 minutes so they absorb the seasonings.
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, stirring gently, until they turn pink and opaque.
Remove the skillet from the heat as soon as they’re done — overcooking makes shrimp rubbery.
Combine Everything
In a large serving bowl, combine the hot pasta, cooked shrimp, and all the prepared sauce.
Toss well using tongs until every strand of pasta is coated in the creamy, spicy sauce.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle dried parsley and a touch of freshly ground black pepper on top.
Serve immediately while warm — this is when the sauce clings best to the noodles.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Avoid microwaving for too long — it can make the shrimp tough and the sauce separate.
Do not freeze this dish, as the mayonnaise base doesn’t hold up well after thawing.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Protein alternatives: Use chicken breast strips or tofu instead of shrimp.
- Dairy-free version: Swap regular mayo for vegan mayo or Greek yogurt.
- Pasta alternatives: Rice noodles or zucchini noodles work great for lighter or gluten-free versions.
- Citrus swap: Lemon juice can replace lime in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed green beans for a refreshing balance.
- Serve with garlic bread or buttery rolls to soak up the sauce.
- For a fun presentation, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and lime wedges.
- A glass of cold white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the spice beautifully.
A Bit of History
Bang Bang sauce originated from American-Asian fusion cuisine. It was first popularized as a dipping sauce for fried shrimp — creamy, spicy, and sweet all at once. Over time, home cooks began experimenting, tossing it with pasta for a richer, more filling version.
Today, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is an internet favorite for its quick prep, comforting flavors, and restaurant-style flair.
Pro Tips
- Dry shrimp well: This ensures a golden sear and prevents sogginess.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Reserve a little pasta water: A splash can make your sauce silkier and help it cling better.
- Adjust the spice level: Start with less red pepper if you prefer mild heat.
- Fresh lime juice: Always use fresh citrus for the best tangy flavor.
Additional Cooking Ideas
- Add sautéed bell peppers or snap peas for color and crunch.
- Mix in a handful of baby spinach right before serving for a light, healthy twist.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan for an extra creamy depth.
- Chill leftovers for a Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta salad — perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, linguine, spaghetti, or gluten-free options all work perfectly.
→ How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?
The spice level is moderate — mostly from the chili sauce and red pepper flakes. You can adjust both to your liking.
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Definitely. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.
→ What are lighter sauce alternatives?
Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamy but lighter sauce.
→ What sides pair best with this dish?
Try a tangy slaw, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Cook them over medium-high heat just until they turn pink and curl — about 2–3 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta combines all the best flavors — creamy, tangy, spicy, and savory — in one comforting bowl. It’s fast, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether it’s your first try or a regular weeknight staple, this dish guarantees clean plates and happy smiles every time.