Bang Bang Shrimp

The beauty of this Bang Bang Shrimp dish lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The shrimp are lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that has just the right hint of sweetness. It’s a flavor explosion that satisfies every craving.

Whether served as a showstopping appetizer or the centerpiece of a seafood dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The signature bang bang sauce—creamy with a gentle heat—elevates the crispy shrimp to irresistible heights. Serve it over rice or in lettuce wraps for a versatile twist on this restaurant favorite!

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 cup buttermilk

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

• 1–2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (to taste)

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp rice vinegar

To garnish:

• Chopped green onions

• Sesame seeds

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and shrimp. Let sit for 10 minutes to marinate.

2. In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.

3. Drain the shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.

6. Toss the crispy shrimp in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated.

7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

What Is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular appetizer or main course known for its irresistible combination of crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. Originally made famous by restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill, this dish has since become a household favorite due to its simple preparation, bold flavors, and visually appealing presentation.

The name “Bang Bang” comes from the explosive flavor profile of the sauce, which typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of heat from Sriracha or similar chili sauces. When tossed with hot, freshly fried shrimp, the result is a savory-spicy experience with a crunchy texture and a creamy finish. Whether served over rice, tucked into lettuce wraps, or enjoyed solo with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions, Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that delivers comfort and excitement in every bite.

The Origins of Bang Bang Shrimp

While this dish is widely associated with American chain restaurants, its inspiration is rooted in Asian cuisine—particularly Thai and Chinese flavors that often pair crispy fried proteins with rich, spicy-sweet sauces. The use of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha points to Southeast Asian influence, while the crispy preparation resembles techniques used in Chinese cooking. Over time, Bang Bang Shrimp has evolved into a distinctly fusion-style recipe, blending elements of different culinary traditions for a universally appealing result.

This cultural blend is part of what makes the dish so beloved. It combines familiar ingredients with global flavors, offering a restaurant-quality experience that’s accessible to home cooks. The dish’s popularity has also led to many variations, including Bang Bang chicken, cauliflower, and even tofu for vegetarian alternatives.

What Makes Bang Bang Shrimp So Addictive?

At the heart of Bang Bang Shrimp’s appeal is its contrast of textures and flavors. The shrimp, when coated in seasoned flour and cornstarch and then fried to golden perfection, offers a light, crispy bite. Pairing that crunch with the velvety texture of the sauce creates an irresistible mouthfeel.

The sauce itself is the star—it’s creamy from the mayonnaise, tangy and sweet from the chili sauce, and has a customizable kick from the chili heat. The use of rice vinegar or lime juice can brighten the overall flavor, giving it a refreshing balance. When these elements come together, they create a multidimensional taste that’s bold without being overwhelming.

It’s also a dish that appeals to all palates. You can adjust the heat level easily, make it more savory or sweet depending on your preferences, and even add toppings like chopped peanuts, cilantro, or pickled vegetables for an extra twist.

Serving Suggestions and Meal Ideas

Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion and your preferences. As an appetizer, it’s ideal for sharing—arranged beautifully on a platter with toothpicks or served over a bed of shredded lettuce for a crisp contrast. For lunch or dinner, consider these serving options:

• Tacos: Spoon the saucy shrimp into warm tortillas, add shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime crema for shrimp tacos with a spicy twist.

• Rice Bowls: Serve over jasmine or coconut rice with steamed broccoli, edamame, or cucumbers for a complete meal.

• Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce leaves to hold the shrimp, topped with shredded carrots and crushed peanuts for a low-carb, fresh alternative.

• Pasta: Toss the shrimp with angel hair pasta or rice noodles, adding extra sauce to coat the noodles for a creamy seafood pasta dish.

These flexible presentations make Bang Bang Shrimp suitable for everything from casual weeknight meals to elegant dinner parties. The dish not only satisfies a craving for something crispy and spicy, but it also adapts beautifully to multiple settings and courses.

Customizing Bang Bang Shrimp to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this dish is how customizable it is. For those looking to reduce calories or avoid frying, the shrimp can be air-fried or baked. This preserves the texture while offering a lighter alternative. The sauce can be modified to suit dietary preferences as well—using low-fat mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or even vegan substitutes for a healthier twist.

For those sensitive to spice, simply reduce or omit the Sriracha. On the other hand, spice lovers can amp up the heat with extra chili paste, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce. To add more complexity to the flavor profile, ingredients like garlic powder, ginger, or soy sauce can be added to the sauce or seasoning mix.

You can also switch out the shrimp for other proteins or vegetables. Chicken strips, tofu cubes, or cauliflower florets all work beautifully with the same batter and sauce, offering exciting variations while keeping the signature bang bang flavor.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Every Time

• Use large shrimp: Jumbo or large shrimp hold up best during frying and have a meatier texture that balances the sauce well.

• Marinate in buttermilk: This helps tenderize the shrimp and helps the flour mixture stick better for a crispier result.

• Double dredge: For extra crunch, dredge the shrimp in the dry mix twice—once before and once after a brief dip back into buttermilk.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the shrimp in small batches so they cook evenly and stay crispy.

• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. The shrimp can lose their crispiness if they sit too long in the sauce.

Following these tips ensures that you get restaurant-quality results at home every single time.

Pairing Bang Bang Shrimp with Drinks and Sides

To round out your meal, consider pairing Bang Bang Shrimp with drinks and sides that complement its flavors. A cold, citrusy beer or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc helps cut through the richness of the sauce. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lime or a Thai iced tea provides a refreshing balance.

In terms of sides, fresh and crunchy elements work best. Think cucumber salad, Asian slaw with sesame dressing, or steamed vegetables like snap peas or bok choy. A side of coconut rice or jasmine rice also helps soak up the flavorful sauce, while adding a gentle sweetness that pairs well with the shrimp’s spice.

Why You Should Try This Dish at Home

Bang Bang Shrimp is more than just a viral recipe—it’s a go-to favorite that brings bold flavors to the table with minimal effort. The ingredients are easy to find, the method is straightforward, and the results are guaranteed to impress. It’s perfect for family dinners, quick lunches, or even meal prepping, as the components can be prepared ahead of time and assembled quickly when needed.

Trying this recipe at home also gives you the freedom to adjust it exactly to your taste—whether you like it spicy, mild, crispy, or saucy. Plus, cooking it yourself ensures it’s fresher and potentially healthier than restaurant versions.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp is a dish that has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s fast, flavorful, and flexible—a perfect example of how fusion cuisine can create something truly greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp, love a little spice, or just want to try something new in the kitchen, this dish offers a little adventure with every bite.

From casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation. With countless ways to serve and customize it, Bang Bang Shrimp is as fun to make as it is to eat. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a repeat favorite.