Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a simple, tasty dish that brings together crispy shrimp coated in a spicy, creamy sauce with tender pasta. The shrimp have a little kick from the bang bang sauce, which is a perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. This pasta is a great way to get a quick, flavorful dinner on the table without a lot of fuss.
I love making this dish when I want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours cooking. The shrimp cook up quickly, and the sauce comes together in just minutes, so it feels like a special treat even on a busy weeknight. I usually toss the bang bang sauce right into the pasta to coat everything evenly—makes every bite a little bit exciting!
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top and a side of crunchy bread to soak up the sauce. It’s one of those meals that’s easy to share with family or friends and always gets a thumbs up. Plus, it’s a fun way to switch up your usual pasta night with a little spicy shrimp flair.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using medium shrimp is perfect because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can swap for large shrimp if you prefer bigger bites or use cooked shrimp for an even faster meal.
Mayonnaise: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or sour cream. It won’t be quite as creamy but still tasty.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the sweet and slightly spicy heart of the bang bang sauce. If you don’t have it, mix honey with a bit of chili garlic sauce or sriracha for a quick substitute.
Sriracha: This adds heat, but you can adjust it to your liking. For no spice, leave it out or use a mild hot sauce instead.
Pasta: Spaghetti or angel hair work best to soak up the creamy sauce. You can try linguine or fettuccine if you want a thicker noodle.
How Do You Get Shrimp Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
Shrimp cook very fast, so the key is not to overcook them or they turn rubbery. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat so it’s hot but not smoking.
- Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer so they cook evenly.
- Cook shrimp about 2 minutes per side — they should be pink and slightly firm but still juicy.
- Remove shrimp immediately from the heat once done to avoid overcooking.
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll get shrimp that stay tender and flavorful, making the pasta dish extra enjoyable.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet – great for cooking shrimp quickly and tossing pasta with sauce.
- Mixing bowl – handy for whisking together the bang bang sauce smoothly.
- Tongs or pasta fork – helps you toss the pasta with shrimp and sauce easily.
- Colander – essential for draining the pasta fast and well.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken strips – cooks quickly and soaks up the spicy sauce nicely.
- Stir in steamed broccoli or snap peas – adds crunch and green goodness.
- Top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan – melts into the sauce for a cheesy twist.
- Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice – brightens flavors and balances the spice.
How to Make Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz spaghetti or thin pasta (angel hair works well)
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and just a few minutes more mixing the sauce and combining everything. It’s quick enough for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp and sauce.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust the spice by adding more sriracha if you like it hotter.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the skillet from heat.
4. Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the bang bang sauce over everything. Toss gently but thoroughly so the pasta and shrimp are well coated in the creamy sauce. Heat for 1-2 minutes to warm through and blend flavors.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Divide the pasta onto plates and sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, spicy Easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or run under cold water in a sealed bag for quicker thawing. Pat dry to avoid excess moisture when cooking.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shrimp and sauce a few hours ahead and refrigerate separately. When ready, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta to keep the noodles from getting soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
Greek yogurt or sour cream are good substitutes if you want a lighter or tangier sauce. Keep in mind the sauce may be less creamy but still delicious.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
Control the heat by adding less sriracha or skipping the crushed red pepper flakes. For more spice, increase either or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
