Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a yummy dish that combines tender shrimp with creamy sauce and spaghetti. It’s a fun twist on classic pasta that’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
You might find yourself twirling the noodles with excitement as you enjoy the zesty flavors. I love how quick it is to prepare, so it’s perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use spaghetti, but you can switch it up! Linguine or even penne work just as well. Just pick your favorite type of pasta for the best bite.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are ideal, but feel free to use large shrimp for a more hearty dish. If you’re a fan of seafood, scallops or even chicken can be a delicious substitute.
Mayonnaise: This gives the sauce its creaminess. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use vegan mayo for a plant-based option!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is key for that sweet and spicy flavor! If you don’t have it on hand, mix a little sugar with hot sauce as a quick alternative.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky. The key is to watch them closely! Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time:
- Start by getting your skillet hot, then add the oil.
- Add shrimp in a single layer to avoid crowding, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on one side without stirring.
- Once they turn pink and opaque, flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- When fully cooked, remove from heat immediately. They cook quickly, so don’t leave them unattended!
Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender, not rubbery. Follow these steps, and they’ll be just right for your pasta!
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp and Sauce:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll have a nice, easy meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water!
2. Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be your Bang Bang sauce that adds that delightful flavor to your pasta!
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. In the last 30 seconds of cooking, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
4. Combining Everything:
Now, reduce the heat to low and add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp and pasta, tossing everything gently to make sure it’s combined and coated nicely. If it looks a bit thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro or parsley on top, along with the toasted breadcrumbs and optional red pepper flakes for extra heat. Give it a final toss, then serve immediately while it’s nice and warm!
Enjoy this creamy, slightly spicy pasta dish that beautifully combines crispy shrimp with a rich, zesty sauce. It’s a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed plastic bag for about 10-15 minutes.
How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you love a good kick, you can increase the amount of sriracha sauce you add to the Bang Bang sauce. Additionally, consider sprinkling more red pepper flakes on top for extra heat when serving!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat the shrimp and blend them with freshly cooked pasta and sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to prevent drying out.