Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Posted on November 20, 2025

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is an exciting dish that brings together succulent shrimp and al dente spaghetti, all enveloped in a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases bold flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of textures and tastes makes it not only satisfying but also a delightful choice that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy sauce with sweet and spicy notes elevates the dish, offering a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
Versatile Ingredients: This recipe can easily be adapted to include your favorite veggies or proteins, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this pasta dish is sure to please both adults and kids alike.
Easy Cleanup: Using minimal kitchen tools means less mess and easier cleaning after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Cooking utensil (spatula or wooden spoon)
Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

Large pot: Ideal for boiling spaghetti noodles evenly, ensuring they reach the perfect al dente texture.
Skillet: Perfect for sautéing shrimp and garlic quickly while allowing for even cooking and flavor development.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pasta, ensuring a well-blended flavor.

Ingredients

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is sauteed shrimp that is mixed with a plate of spaghetti noodles and smothered in a creamy sweet and spicy bang bang sauce.

For the Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
½ teaspoon sriracha sauce (or more to taste)
1 tablespoon honey

For the Pasta

10 ounces shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail removed)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
8 ounces spaghetti noodles (cooked al dente)

Garnishes (Optional)

Green onions (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and honey. Mix well until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil water in a large pot. Add salt to flavor the water. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once cooked, add the spaghetti noodles directly into the skillet with shrimp. Pour in the prepared bang bang sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Garnish with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Serving Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is all about enhancing its creamy, spicy flavor and making it visually appealing. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish for any occasion.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Green Onions: Finely chop green onions and sprinkle them on top for a fresh crunch.
Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch that complements the sauce.

Pair with a Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the dish.

Serve with Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
French Baguette: Slice a baguette and serve it alongside for a rustic touch.

Create a Themed Dinner

Seafood Night: Make this pasta part of a seafood-themed dinner with shrimp cocktails or grilled fish.
Italian Feast: Pair it with Italian antipasti or bruschetta for an authentic Italian experience.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Perfecting Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta involves attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to make your dish shine.

Bold Flavors: Adjust the sriracha according to your spice preference for that perfect kick.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for better texture and flavor; frozen shrimp can be used but thaw properly.
Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure spaghetti noodles are cooked al dente to maintain their bite against the creaminess.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Presentation Matters: Serve in warm bowls and garnish generously for an inviting presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Complementing your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with the right sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that work well.

Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the pasta’s richness.
Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a flavorful addition.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb alternative that pairs nicely with shrimp pasta.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch; brush with butter and sprinkle with chili powder for extra flavor.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain provides protein and can be flavored simply with herbs and lemon juice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Bold preparation: Not preparing your ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Always measure and chop everything before you start cooking.
Bold overcooking pasta: Cooking the spaghetti too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain the perfect texture.
Bold using low-quality shrimp: Using frozen or low-quality shrimp can affect flavor. Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for better taste.
Bold neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your shrimp properly can lead to blandness. Don’t skip on salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
Bold rushing the sauce: Skipping steps or hurrying through the sauce preparation can compromise its richness. Take your time to let the flavors develop.

Refrigerator Storage

item Store in an airtight container.
item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

item Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
item Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warm.
item Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between for even warming.
item Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delicious dish featuring sautéed shrimp tossed with spaghetti noodles and coated in a creamy sweet and spicy sauce.

How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

The spiciness of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta can be adjusted by varying the amount of sriracha used. Start gently, then add more if desired.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Yes! You may substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or lamb according to your preference while keeping the rest of the recipe intact.

What sides pair well with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this dish, balancing its rich flavors and enhancing your meal experience.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy sauce and succulent shrimp (or other proteins), it’s perfect for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting the spice level according to your taste!