How to Make The Best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta – Quick & Easy Recipe

Introduction

If you’re searching for a pasta dish that delivers a bold kick of flavor while staying creamy and comforting, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new favorite.

This dish takes everything you love about classic seafood pasta and amps it up with a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that clings to every bite.

The beauty of this recipe? Whipping this up is a breeze—just a few simple ingredients and almost no work needed. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull off restaurant-quality results—you just need succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a homemade Bang Bang sauce, which is the show’s star.

The combination of garlic-infused shrimp, silky noodles, and a luscious sauce made with mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of sriracha creates an unforgettable dish that hits all the right notes: spicy, creamy, and satisfying.

Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy date night, or a special family meal, this recipe fits the bill.

It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Plus, it’s easily customizable—adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or add extra toppings to make it your own.

Ready to dive into this flavor-packed dish? Let’s break it down step by step, so you can recreate this delicious, restaurant-worthy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta in the comfort of your kitchen.

What is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

Imagine a dish that combines the bold, spicy kick of Bang Bang Shrimp with the comforting, creamy richness of pasta.

That’s exactly what Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta brings to your table—a perfect harmony of heat, sweetness, and creaminess that keeps you coming back for more.

At its core, this dish is a fusion of flavors inspired by Bang Bang Shrimp, a popular appetizer made famous by Bonefish Grill.

If you’ve ever tried their crispy, sauce-coated shrimp, you know how addicting that sweet-and-spicy balance can be.

Now, take that same irresistible flavor profile and pair it with tender pasta, lightly seasoned shrimp, and a homemade Bang Bang sauce that ties everything together.

The result? A restaurant-worthy meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to make.

Breaking Down the Flavors

The magic of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta comes from its signature sauce. Unlike traditional creamy pasta sauces that rely on heavy cream or butter, this one takes a different approach.

It blends mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a hint of honey or lemon juice to create a velvety, slightly tangy, and mildly spicy coating for your pasta and shrimp.

The mayo adds richness, the sweet chili sauce brings a gentle sweetness, and the sriracha delivers just the right amount of heat.

Then, there’s the shrimp—lightly seasoned and sautéed until tender and juicy. The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the sauce, making each bite burst with layers of taste and texture.

The pasta, whether you choose linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti, soaks up all that goodness, ensuring you get a perfect balance of flavors in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

If you’re a fan of spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is right up your alley. But what makes it even better is its versatility.

You can easily adjust the spice level, swap out the protein, or even use a different type of pasta to match your preferences.

It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen—perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Now that you know what makes this dish so special, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to bring it to life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients to ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta turns out flavorful, creamy, and restaurant-worthy.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet powerful combination of ingredients that come together to create an irresistible balance of spice, creaminess, and savory depth.

To make things easier, let’s break it down into three key components: the Bang Bang Sauce, the shrimp, and the pasta.

1. Bang Bang Sauce – The Star of the Dish

The Bang Bang Sauce is what makes this dish truly stand out. It’s a unique blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly.

Unlike traditional pasta sauces, which are often butter or cream-based, this one relies on a handful of bold ingredients that pack a punch.

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Bang Bang Sauce:

✅ Mayonnaise – This is the base of the sauce, giving it a smooth and velvety texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute.

✅ Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness with a subtle kick, balancing out the heat from the other ingredients. This is what gives the sauce its signature sticky-sweet quality.

✅ Sriracha – This is where the heat comes in. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance—a little for mild heat, a lot for a fiery kick.

✅ Honey or Sugar – A small drizzle of honey (or a teaspoon of sugar) rounds out the flavors, preventing the sauce from being too spicy or tangy.

✅ Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce, cutting through the richness and adding a touch of freshness.

Pro Tip: If you want a thinner consistency, you can add a tablespoon of warm water or a splash of pasta water to loosen up the sauce before mixing it into your dish.

2. Shrimp – The Protein Powerhouse

The shrimp is another key player in this dish, bringing a juicy, slightly sweet bite that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the sauce.

Choosing the right shrimp and preparing it properly makes all the difference.

Here’s what you need to know:

✅ Large Shrimp (Peeled & Deveined) – Go for fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure they are peeled, deveined, and tail-off for easy eating. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first by running them under cold water for a few minutes.

✅ Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor and complements the sauce perfectly.

✅ Olive Oil or Butter – Used for sautéing the shrimp, giving it a slight golden sear while keeping it juicy.

✅ Salt, Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes – A pinch of seasoning goes a long way in bringing out the natural sweetness of the shrimp while adding a bit of extra heat.

Cooking Tip: Shrimp cooks quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side—so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. You want them to be plump, tender, and slightly opaque, not rubbery.

3. Pasta – The Perfect Base

The pasta in this dish serves as a blank canvas, soaking up all the creamy, spicy flavors from the sauce. While you can technically use any pasta, some varieties work better than others in holding onto the sauce and complementing the shrimp.

Here are the best options:

✅ Linguine – A top choice for this dish because its slightly flat shape allows the sauce to cling beautifully.

✅ Fettuccine – If you prefer a thicker, creamier bite, fettuccine is a fantastic alternative.

✅ Spaghetti – A classic option that works well if you want a lighter, more delicate pasta experience.

✅ Angel Hair Pasta – Perfect if you like a more delicate texture, but be careful—it cooks very fast!

Pro Tip: Always cook your pasta al dente (firm to the bite), as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce. Also, don’t forget to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—this can help loosen the sauce and make it extra silky.

Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes

Want to take your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta to the next level? Here are some extra ingredients you can add for more texture, flavor, and presentation:

✅ Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory, umami depth to the dish.

✅ Fresh Parsley or Green Onions – A pop of color and freshness that enhances the final presentation.

✅ Extra Red Pepper Flakes – If you love heat, adding extra red pepper flakes will bring more spice to each bite.

✅ Lime or Lemon Wedges – A fresh squeeze over the top right before serving enhances the overall brightness of the dish.

✅ Cherry Tomatoes or Roasted Red Peppers – For a burst of sweetness and acidity that balances out the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together and create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, spice, and creamy goodness.

The best part? This recipe is simple, quick, and beginner-friendly, so you won’t need hours in the kitchen to make a meal that looks and tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

Follow these step-by-step instructions, and in less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a plate of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta that’s perfectly balanced, beautifully coated in its signature sauce, and guaranteed to impress.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

First, fill a spacious pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and heat it until it reaches a rolling boil. The key to a great pasta dish is making sure the pasta is seasoned from the inside out, and the easiest way to do that is by adding about a tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.

Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add your choice of pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti) and cook it until it’s al dente—this means it should still have a slight bite to it, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce later.

⏳ Cooking Time Tip: Check the package instructions, but typically, al dente pasta takes around 8–10 minutes.

Before draining the pasta, scoop out about ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce and make it extra silky when everything comes together.

Once the pasta is drained, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, then set it aside while you move on to the shrimp.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the star of the dish—the Bang Bang Sauce.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until smooth:

✔️ ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
✔️ ¼ cup sweet chili sauce (adds that perfect balance of sweetness and spice)
✔️ 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
✔️ 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar, to round out the flavors)
✔️ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (adds brightness and freshness)

Give it a taste and adjust as needed—if you want more heat, add extra sriracha; if you prefer more sweetness, drizzle in a little more honey. Once it’s perfectly balanced, set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp to Juicy Perfection

Now, let’s focus on the protein. The shrimp should be peeled, deveined, and patted dry before you start cooking. Removing excess moisture ensures they sear properly instead of steaming.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add:

✔️ 1 pound of shrimp (seasoned with salt and pepper)
✔️ 3 cloves of minced garlic
✔️ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for extra heat, optional)

Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once, until they turn pink, opaque, and slightly golden around the edges. Be careful not to overcook them—shrimp cook fast, and you want them to stay tender and juicy.

Once done, remove them from the heat and set them aside while you bring everything together.

Step 4: Combine Everything & Toss in the Sauce

Now for the fun part—bringing it all together!

In the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp, lower the heat to medium and add the drained pasta directly into the pan. Pour in the Bang Bang Sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Next, return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently toss again so everything is fully combined. The heat from the pan will help the sauce cling to the pasta while keeping the shrimp warm.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve Like a Pro

Once everything is mixed to perfection, it’s time for the final touches! Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates and top it off with:

✔️ Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for an extra savory kick)
✔️ Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for a pop of color and freshness)
✔️ A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (to brighten the flavors)
✔️ Extra red pepper flakes or sriracha drizzle (if you like it extra spicy)

Serve immediately while everything is hot, creamy, and full of bold flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or even a chilled glass of white wine.

Tips and Variations for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about how you can take your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta to the next level.

Whether you want to tweak the spice level, swap ingredients, or make it even creamier, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to match your taste.

Below, you’ll find expert tips, substitutions, and creative twists that will ensure your pasta turns out perfect every single time.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

✅ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook incredibly fast—just 2–3 minutes per side—so be sure to keep an eye on them. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and dry, which can take away from the dish’s luxurious texture.

✅ Use Fresh Garlic for Maximum Flavor
While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh minced garlic adds depth and richness to the shrimp. Sautéing garlic in butter or olive oil before adding the shrimp gives the dish a more aromatic and flavorful base.

✅ Adjust the Spice to Your Preference
If you love heat, go ahead and add extra sriracha, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce. On the flip side, if you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the sriracha and use more sweet chili sauce for a sweeter, less spicy balance.

✅ Reserve Pasta Water for a Silky Sauce
Instead of draining all the pasta water, save about ½ cup before straining the noodles. If your sauce feels too thick, adding a bit of that starchy water will help loosen it up and coat the pasta evenly without making it watery.

✅ Toss the Pasta While It’s Warm
For the best results, mix the cooked pasta with the Bang Bang sauce immediately while it’s still warm. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors and helps the sauce stick to every strand.

Tasty Variations to Switch Things Up

Looking to try something new? Here are some easy ways to customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta and make it your own.

1. Make It Extra Creamy

If you love ultra-rich pasta dishes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce. This makes it even silkier and helps balance out the spice with a smooth, velvety texture.

2. Swap the Protein

Not a fan of shrimp? No problem! Try using:
✔️ Grilled or crispy chicken – A great alternative that still soaks up the sauce beautifully.
✔️ Salmon or scallops – Elevates the dish with a more luxurious seafood twist.
✔️ Tofu or mushrooms – A fantastic vegetarian option that keeps the dish satisfying.

3. Try a Different Pasta Shape

While linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are classic choices, don’t be afraid to get creative with your pasta selection:
✔️ Penne or rigatoni – Great for holding sauce inside the tubes, giving you a burst of flavor in every bite.
✔️ Bowtie pasta (Farfalle) – Adds a fun shape while still pairing well with the creamy sauce.
✔️ Zucchini noodles (Zoodles) – A low-carb alternative that makes the dish lighter while keeping all the flavor.

4. Turn It Into a Casserole

If you’re making a big batch, why not bake it? Mix the pasta and sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, and sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly for a delicious baked version.

5. Add More Veggies for Extra Freshness

Want to add more texture and nutrients? Toss in some veggies! Some great options include:
✔️ Bell peppers – Sliced thin for a sweet, crunchy contrast.
✔️ Spinach or kale – Wilts beautifully into the sauce, adding a hint of earthiness.
✔️ Cherry tomatoes – Bursting with juiciness and complementing the shrimp perfectly.
✔️ Asparagus or broccoli – Adds a pop of green and pairs well with the sauce’s flavors.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always likely because this dish is so good), here’s how to store and reheat them properly without losing flavor or texture.

✅ Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✅ Reheating – Warm it up on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long, as it can make them rubbery.
✅ Freezing? Not Recommended – Due to the creamy sauce, this dish doesn’t freeze well. The texture can become grainy when thawed, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When making Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, you might run into a few questions—whether it’s about ingredient swaps, storage, or how to make the dish healthier.

Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions so you can confidently create a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and absolutely delicious every time.

1. Can I Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Less Spicy?

Absolutely! The heat level is completely customizable. Want to tone down the heat? Here’s how:
✔️ Reduce or omit the sriracha in the sauce.
✔️ Use more sweet chili sauce to balance out the spice.
✔️ Skip the red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
✔️ Add a little extra mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to mellow out the heat.

Want a bit of spice but not too much? Start with a small amount of sriracha and gradually add more until it reaches your perfect heat level.

2. What’s the Best Type of Pasta to Use?

You have a lot of flexibility when it comes to pasta choice. Some of the best options include:
✔️ Linguine or fettuccine – Great for holding onto the creamy sauce.
✔️ Spaghetti – A classic choice that works well with the texture of the shrimp.
✔️ Penne or rigatoni – Their hollow shapes trap the sauce inside, giving you more flavor in every bite.
✔️ Angel hair pasta – A lighter option, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can become mushy.

If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, try using zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a healthier spin on this dish.

3. How Do I Keep the Shrimp from Turning Rubbery?

Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them is the number one reason they become tough and rubbery. Here’s how to get them perfectly tender every time:
✔️ Pat them dry before cooking to get a nice sear.
✔️ Use medium-high heat and cook for 2–3 minutes per side.
✔️ Remove them from heat immediately once they turn pink and opaque.
✔️ If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly first by running them under cold water for a few minutes.

Remember, shrimp will continue cooking slightly even after you remove them from the pan, so it’s best to take them off the heat just before they’re fully done.

4. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, but with a few adjustments. While Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep parts of it ahead of time:
✔️ Make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔️ Cook the pasta ahead of time, toss it with a little olive oil, and refrigerate it.
✔️ Cook the shrimp separately and store them in an airtight container.

When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat everything together in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water, broth, or cream to bring the sauce back to its smooth consistency.

5. What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

Since this pasta is rich and creamy, pairing it with a lighter side dish balances out the meal beautifully. Some great options include:
✔️ Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
✔️ A fresh green salad – Tossed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
✔️ Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini complement the flavors well.
✔️ Coleslaw – A crisp, refreshing side that pairs surprisingly well with the creamy sauce.

If you want to keep things simple, a squeeze of fresh lemon and some extra chopped herbs on top can also help balance out the richness.

6. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?

Yes! Frozen shrimp are a great option—just remember to defrost them correctly for the best results. The best method is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15–20 minutes, then pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.

Avoid thawing shrimp in warm or hot water, as this can affect their texture and make them mushy.

7. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Got extras? Here’s the best way to keep them fresh and warm them up later:

✔️ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔️ Reheat on the stove: Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
✔️ Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time) to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

❌ Not recommended for freezing: The sauce can separate, and the shrimp may become tough after thawing.

8. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! If you want a dairy-free version of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, try these swaps:
✔️ Use vegan mayonnaise or plain dairy-free yogurt instead of regular mayo.
✔️ Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
✔️ Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a rich, silky texture.

These small swaps will help keep the dish just as creamy and flavorful while making it suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.

Conclusion

By now, you’ve got everything you need to make a restaurant-worthy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta right in your own kitchen.

From selecting the freshest ingredients to perfecting the creamy, spicy sauce, every step you take brings you closer to a dish that’s not just flavor-packed but also incredibly satisfying.

What makes this pasta truly special is its versatility—you can tweak the spice level, experiment with different proteins, or even make it extra creamy to suit your personal taste.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, this dish never fails to impress.

The best part? It’s quick and easy to make. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that tastes like something straight out of your favorite seafood restaurant—except even better, because it’s homemade with love.

Plus, with all the pro tips and variations you’ve learned, you can make this meal uniquely yours every single time.

So, what’s next? Grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a plate of creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta.

Once you take that first bite, you’ll see why this dish has become a favorite in so many households.

And don’t forget—if you love this recipe, share it with your friends and family, or try out some of the variations to keep things exciting. Cooking is all about experimenting, enjoying, and making every meal an experience. Now, go ahead and dig in—you deserve it! 🍤🍝🔥