There’s a certain thrill that comes from transforming a simple ingredient into something extraordinary. For me, that magic moment happens when I toss fresh shrimp into a sizzling skillet, watching them turn golden brown while filling the kitchen with an enticing aroma. These Bang Bang Shrimp are not just a dish; they represent a symphony of flavors, a delightful crunch coupled with a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds.
I originally found this recipe during a weekend craving for restaurant-style appetizers, and I was amazed at how quickly I could recreate this dish at home. With just a handful of ingredients—many of which I had in my pantry—I was able to whip up a meal that felt truly indulgent but required only 25 minutes of my time. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, these shrimp are bound to become a favorite in your repertoire. So, let’s dive in and bring the taste of a seafood paradise right to your dining table!
Why You'll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp
- This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The tantalizing flavor combination of spicy sriracha and creamy sauce will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
- It's a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a fun party snack that will keep your guests coming back for more.
- Visually stunning with its golden-brown shrimp and zesty sauce, this dish is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Breading
- Large shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined; make sure they are fresh for the best flavor in your Bang Bang Shrimp!
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup; this creates a light coating that helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick.
- Large eggs – 2, beaten; they act as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
- Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup; these provide an extra crispy texture that everyone loves.
For the Frying
- Vegetable oil – ½ cup; this helps achieve that golden brown color when frying the shrimp.
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup; adds creaminess to balance the spice.
- Sriracha sauce – 2 tbsp; gives that fiery kick you crave!
- Honey – 1 tbsp; a touch of sweetness to complement the spice.
- Fresh lime juice – 1 tbsp; adds a zesty brightness that brings all the flavors together.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
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Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crisp coating by removing excess moisture from the shrimp.
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Set up a breading station by arranging three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of garlic powder for added flavor.
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Dip each shrimp into the flour, shaking off the excess, then plunge it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each shrimp is well-covered to achieve that delightful crunch!
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it's shimmering. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Fry the shrimp in batches, cooking until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
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Mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a bowl to create the tangy sauce. Stir until smooth, ensuring all the ingredients are well-blended for an even flavor.
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Toss the hot, fried shrimp in the sauce until they are fully coated and shiny. Serve immediately with lime wedges for an added burst of freshness and a stunning presentation on your table!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with exciting twists and substitutions that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for those who crave heat. A little extra spice can really elevate the dish!
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Crispy Baked: Bake the breaded shrimp at 400°F for 12-15 minutes for a healthier alternative that still packs a crunch.
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Creamy Avocado Sauce: Swap the mayo for mashed avocado blended with lime juice for a creamy, dairy-free twist. This adds a rich, buttery texture that beautifully complements the shrimp.
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Honey Mustard Mix: Replace sriracha with honey mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor profile that’s kid-friendly. This variation appeals to those who are less keen on spice.
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Coconut Crust: Substitute part of the panko with shredded coconut for a tropical flair. This adds a delightful sweetness and chewiness, making every bite feel like a vacation.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the sauce for a burst of freshness. This can create a lovely contrast with the richness of the fried shrimp.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some thinly sliced bell peppers or shredded zucchini with the shrimp for added texture and color, transforming your dish into a hearty medley.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with the bold flavors of these crispy shrimp.
- Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of coconut rice soothe the dish's heat, creating a well-rounded experience.
- Crunchy Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy coleslaw adds a delightful crunch, balancing the crispy shrimp with a refreshing bite. It’s a perfect way to boost your veggie intake while keeping things light and zesty.
- Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles offer depth and comfort, making each bite smooth and satisfying alongside the Bang Bang Shrimp’s spiciness.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus provides a smoky flavor and tender crunch, adding an earthy element that enhances the shrimp's vibrancy.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet, juicy mango salsa brings a tropical flair and natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the spicy sauce. It’s a flavor explosion in a bite!
- Beer or Sparkling Water: A chilled beer or bubbly sparkling water effectively cools down the spices, making each sip a refreshing counterpart to the heat.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich, velvety chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with a luxurious finish, leaving everyone craving more of that sweet sensation.
- Spicy Pickles: If you’re a fan of heat, serving spicy pickles alongside adds a briny snap that pairs well with both the shrimp and the sauce.
- Creamy Avocado Toast: Fresh, creamy avocado on toasted bread provides a rich complementary texture, intertwining the flavors of the meal effortlessly.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen Bang Bang Shrimp in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This keeps them crispy and flavorful.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply coat them with the flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs, then store them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but keeps them fresh and crispy when cooked. When you're ready to serve, just heat the vegetable oil and fry the shrimp as directed—ensuring they stay golden and delicious. To enjoy the sauce at its best, mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice just before tossing with the shrimp for that creamy, spicy finish!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal crunch in your Bang Bang Shrimp, make sure to fully dry your shrimp after rinsing to remove moisture that can hinder the breading process.
- When setting up your breading station, consider adding a bit of garlic powder to the panko to enhance the flavor and elevate your dish.
- When frying, maintain the oil temperature by checking for shimmer; if the shrimp are cooking too quickly or slowly, adjust the heat accordingly.
- Lastly, remember to toss the shrimp in the sauce while they are still hot to ensure that the sauce adheres beautifully and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! I recommend using large shrimp that are fresh and peeled, deveined, and tail-off for this dish. Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture, but if you're in a pinch, frozen shrimp can work too—just make sure to properly thaw them before cooking.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
For optimal flavor, store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. I often reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes to help restore some of their crispy texture.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, you can definitely freeze Bang Bang Shrimp! To do this, place the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about 1 hour until they are firm. Then, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can stay frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your container, so you know when to use them!
How do I reheat frozen Bang Bang Shrimp?
To reheat your frozen Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s best to bring them to room temperature overnight in the fridge before cooking. Then, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method retains their crunch and flavor wonderfully.
Are there any dietary considerations for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very! If you have allergies, it's essential to note that this recipe includes shellfish, eggs, and gluten (from the flour and breadcrumbs). If you're cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity, you can swap the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if you're avoiding mayonnaise, you can replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
What if my shrimp don’t get crispy?
If your Bang Bang Shrimp are not coming out crispy, there are a few troubleshooting tips! First, ensure you’re drying the shrimp thoroughly before breading; moisture can prevent that delightful crunch. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—test it with a breadcrumb; it should sizzle as soon as it hits the oil. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp.
Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Set up a breading station by arranging three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of garlic powder.
- Dip each shrimp into the flour, shake off the excess, then plunge in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 3-4 minutes. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
- Mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a bowl to create the sauce. Stir until smooth.
- Toss hot, fried shrimp in the sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
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