Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Shrimp (Peeled, deveined, tails removed); 1 cup Buttermilk (Or mix milk with vinegar); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Adjust to taste); 0.5 teaspoon Onion Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste); 0.75 cup Cornstarch; 0.5 cup High-Quality Mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended); 0.25 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha Hot Sauce (Adjust to taste)

As I stood in my kitchen, the savory scent of frying shrimp danced through the air, teasing my taste buds and sparking memories of evenings spent indulging in vibrant dishes at my favorite restaurants. This Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe brings that restaurant experience straight to your home, perfectly capturing the delightful crunch of golden shrimp enveloped in a creamy, spicy mayo sauce. What I love most is that it comes together in just 25 minutes—ideal for those evenings when time is tight but flavor is non-negotiable. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile, serving as a show-stopping appetizer or a satisfying main course. Ready to bring a touch of restaurant flair to your table? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp so irresistible?

Bold, Flavorful Impact: This recipe features a delightful mix of crispy fried shrimp and a rich mayo sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a stunning meal ready in no time!

Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or as a hearty main, it fits any occasion.

Recipe Variations: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, and play with sauces for a unique twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it as a playful topping on your favorite ramen or enjoy it alongside Seafood Lasagna Shrimp.

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

• Everything you need for crispy perfection!

For the Shrimp

Large Shrimp – Use sizes U31-40 for optimal tenderness; ensure they are peeled, deveined, and tails removed.
Buttermilk – This ingredient tenderizes the shrimp and provides a flavorful wet batter; alternatively, mix milk with a splash of vinegar if buttermilk is not available.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust to your personal taste.
Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle garlicky kick; try starting with half a teaspoon and increasing if desired.
Onion Powder – Complements the other spices for a well-rounded flavor; a little goes a long way!
Black Pepper – Introduces a gentle heat; adjust the amount based on your preference for spice.
Cornstarch – Creates a lighter, crispier coating; vital for achieving that classic crispy texture of Bang Bang Shrimp.

For the Sauce

High-Quality Mayonnaise – A crucial component for the creamy sauce; Kewpie is recommended for its rich, flavorful profile, but Duke’s or Hellman’s will work as well.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Brings sweetness and a hint of heat to the mayo; if you prefer, you can try making homemade sweet chili sauce.
Sriracha Hot Sauce – Adds that beloved kick to the sauce; feel free to adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.

This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe captures the perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a delightful experience for any meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine large peeled and deveined shrimp with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the buttermilk tenderize the shrimp. You want the shrimp to be well-coated for that perfect crispy Bang Bang Shrimp experience.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Take each marinated shrimp, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, and coat it individually in cornstarch. Be sure to shake off any excess cornstarch, as a thinner coating will ensure perfect crispness when frying. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet, ready for frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the shrimp, aiming for a temperature of 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy; the oil should shimmer but not smoke. This temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crisp exterior on your Bang Bang Shrimp while keeping the interior juicy and tender.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each batch for about 2 minutes, turning them halfway through. The shrimp should appear golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, in a large mixing bowl, combine high-quality mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha hot sauce. Stir until smooth and well-blended, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce that elevates your Bang Bang Shrimp. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your taste, adding more for extra heat if desired.

Step 6: Toss and Serve
Once all the shrimp are fried and drained, add them to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated in the creamy, spicy mixture. Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp immediately while still hot, and enjoy the delightful crunch and rich flavors that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in cornstarch and store them on a baking sheet in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be sure to cover them well to prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to fry, simply heat the oil and fry the shrimp as instructed. To maintain their crispy texture, avoid tossing them in the sauce until just before serving; this way, they’ll be just as delicious as if made fresh!

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore exciting twists on the classic Bang Bang Shrimp to ignite your culinary creativity and tantalize your taste buds!

Chicken or Tofu: Replace shrimp with chicken breast or firm tofu for a delightful alternative while keeping the same crispy coating techniques.
Imagine crispy chicken pieces tossed in that creamy sauce—just like your favorite restaurant!
Spicy Sauce Twist: Use a spicy garlic aioli or chipotle mayo for an exciting flavor enhancement that brings depth and excitement to every bite.
The smoky notes will elevate your dish and leave guests craving more!
Indian Flair: Add curry powder or garam masala to the coating for a unique Indian-inspired version of Bang Bang Shrimp that dazzles with bold spices.
The warmth of the spices marries beautifully with the creamy mayo sauce.
Asian Fusion: Swap the mayo and chili sauce for a tangy ponzu sauce and sesame oil mix for a zesty, fresh twist that brightens up the flavors.
Serve it over sushi rice or in avocado boats for a beautiful presentation.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or green onions with the shrimp for an extra layer of texture.
Their crispness complements the tender shrimp, making for a vibrant and colorful dish!
Heat Level Adjustment: Increase or decrease the Sriracha to tailor the heat just for you; try a bit of cayenne for extra flair if you’re feeling bold!
Your taste buds will thank you for striking that perfect balance of spice!
Baked or Air-Fried: For a healthier approach, consider air-frying or baking the shrimp at 425°F for about 12 minutes until crispy.
Enjoy the same great flavor with less oil, making this dish even more enjoyable on busy nights.
Zesty Lime Kick: Add lime juice and zest into the sauce for a bright citrus lift that cuts through the creaminess, creating perfect harmony of flavors.
It’s like bringing a slice of sunshine right to your plate!

With these variations, your adventure in cooking Bang Bang Shrimp can take unexpected and delightful turns—perfect for impressing friends and family! For inspiration, don’t forget to try it with Garlic Lime Shrimp or mix things up with some Bang Bang Chicken.

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?

Transform your meal with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the bold flavors of this appetizing shrimp dish.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic side adds a light, fluffy base that balances the rich and spicy shrimp. Serve the shrimp atop a bed of steaming rice for a satisfying meal.
Crunchy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a crisp texture and zesty contrast to the creamy shrimp. The vinegar in the slaw cuts through the richness of the sauce wonderfully.
Garlic Noodles: Silky noodles tossed in garlic and butter are the ideal pairing, capturing any leftover sauce and offering a comforting, indulgent side.
Spicy Avocado Salad: The creaminess of fresh avocado and a hint of heat from jalapeño create a delightful counterpart to the crispy shrimp. This dish adds a bright pop of color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate.
Cucumber Pickles: These tangy, crunchy pickles provide a refreshing bite that cleanses the palate, making each savory shrimp taste even more delectable.
Soda or Sparkling Wine: A bubbly drink, like a citrus soda or sparkling wine, enhances the dining experience, adding an elegant touch to this fun and flavorful dish.
Chocolate Lava Cake: A rich, molten chocolate dessert offers a perfect sweet ending to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the savory, spicy shrimp. Each bite is a delightful finish to a bold culinary journey.

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain crispness, avoid coating in sauce until ready to eat.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp without sauce in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the shrimp soggy.

Serving Suggestions: Once reheated, toss with freshly made sauce to enjoy the delightful flavors of your Bang Bang Shrimp again!

Expert Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

Temperature Control: Always fry shrimp at 350°F; if the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil and lose crispiness.
No Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in batches, allowing space between each piece. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and soggy results.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor; frozen shrimp can work, but fresh shrimp will significantly enhance the Bang Bang Shrimp experience.
Sauce Timing: Coat the shrimp immediately after frying; this ensures a crunchy texture without the coating becoming soggy from sitting in the sauce too long.
Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to your personal spice tolerance; a little can go a long way in adding kick to your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Serving Warm: Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp fresh and hot to maximize flavor and texture; reheating will soften the crispy coating.

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using large shrimp sized U31-40. They should be peeled, deveined, and have their tails removed to ensure that every bite is tender and flavorful.

How can I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it as crispy as possible, it’s best to avoid coating the shrimp with sauce until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can Bang Bang Shrimp be frozen?
Yes! To freeze your Bang Bang Shrimp, first, fry the shrimp and allow them to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven to restore that delightful crunch!

What if my shrimp doesn’t turn out crispy?
No worries! Ensure that the oil temperature is at 350°F for optimal frying; if it’s too cool, the shrimp can absorb excess oil and lose that crispiness. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.

Can I make this recipe allergy-friendly?
Very! If you’re looking to avoid certain allergens, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or yogurt for a different creaminess. Additionally, use gluten-free cornstarch instead of flour to maintain that crispy coating without gluten. Always check specific brands if you’re considering other dietary needs.