Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp | Crispy Shrimp with Sweet Spicy Sauce
Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy, Creamy, Sweet and
Spicy Seafood Perfection
If you're looking for a
restaurant-quality seafood appetizer or main course that combines crispy shrimp
with an irresistibly creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp
is the perfect recipe. Famous for its crunchy texture and signature sauce, this
dish has become a favorite among seafood lovers worldwide.
The beauty of Creamy Bang Bang
Shrimp lies in its simplicity. Tender shrimp are lightly coated and fried until
golden brown, then tossed in a rich sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili
sauce, and a touch of heat. The result is a delicious balance of crunch,
creaminess, sweetness, and spice that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Whether you're serving it as an
appetizer, party snack, taco filling, rice bowl topping, or main course, this
versatile recipe delivers incredible flavor with every bite.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll
learn everything you need to know about making homemade Creamy Bang Bang
Shrimp, including ingredients, cooking techniques, serving ideas, storage tips,
and expert tricks for achieving the perfect crispy texture.
What Is Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp?
Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp is a seafood
dish consisting of crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy sweet-and-spicy
sauce. The dish is inspired by Asian-American cuisine and has gained popularity
through restaurant menus and home kitchens alike.
The recipe typically includes:
- Large shrimp
- Cornstarch or flour coating
- Buttermilk
- Sweet chili sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Hot sauce
- Garlic seasonings
The combination creates a unique flavor profile that is savory, sweet, creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy
and Crunchy
The shrimp develop a golden, crunchy
exterior.
Rich
and Creamy Sauce
The signature Bang Bang sauce is
addictive and flavorful.
Quick
to Make
Ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile
Works as an appetizer, entrée, taco
filling, or rice bowl topping.
Crowd-Pleasing
Perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4 people.
For
the Shrimp
- 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For
the Creamy Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Optional
Garnishes
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Equipment Needed
You'll need:
- Large mixing bowls
- Deep skillet or fryer
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towel-lined plate
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why Bang Bang Sauce Is So Popular
The sauce is what makes this dish
unforgettable.
Sweet
Sweet chili sauce provides gentle
sweetness.
Creamy
Mayonnaise creates a smooth, rich
texture.
Spicy
Sriracha adds a subtle kick.
Tangy
Lime juice balances the richness.
Together, these ingredients create
the famous Bang Bang flavor profile.
Choosing the Best Shrimp
The quality of shrimp significantly
affects the final result.
Large
Shrimp
Provide the best texture and
presentation.
Fresh
Shrimp
Offer superior flavor.
Frozen
Shrimp
Work perfectly when properly thawed.
Look for shrimp labeled:
- Large
- Jumbo
- 16–20 count per pound
Preparing the Shrimp
Step
1: Clean the Shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary.
Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
Step
2: Marinate in Buttermilk
Place shrimp in a bowl.
Pour buttermilk over the shrimp.
Allow to soak for:
15–20 minutes
This helps tenderize the shrimp and
improves coating adhesion.
Making the Creamy Bang Bang Sauce
Step
1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sweet chili sauce
- Sriracha
- Honey
- Lime juice
Step
2: Adjust Flavor
For extra heat:
- Add more sriracha
For additional sweetness:
- Add a little more honey
Refrigerate until ready to use.
Coating the Shrimp
Step
1: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl combine:
- Cornstarch
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix thoroughly.
Step
2: Coat the Shrimp
Remove shrimp from the buttermilk.
Allow excess liquid to drip off.
Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch
mixture until fully coated.
Frying the Shrimp
Step
1: Heat the Oil
Heat oil to:
350°F (175°C)
Maintaining proper oil temperature
is crucial for crispiness.
Step
2: Fry in Batches
Carefully add shrimp to the hot oil.
Cook for:
2–3 minutes
Until golden brown and crispy.
Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step
3: Drain
Transfer cooked shrimp to a paper
towel-lined plate.
Tossing the Shrimp
Step
1: Add Sauce
Place shrimp in a large mixing bowl.
Pour the desired amount of Bang Bang
sauce over the shrimp.
Step
2: Toss Gently
Coat evenly without breaking the
crispy coating.
Serve immediately for maximum
crunch.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp
Use
Cornstarch
Cornstarch produces a lighter,
crispier coating than flour.
Pat
Shrimp Dry
Removing excess moisture improves
crispiness.
Maintain
Oil Temperature
Oil that is too cool creates greasy
shrimp.
Toss
Just Before Serving
This prevents the coating from
becoming soggy.
Use
Fresh Sauce
Prepare the sauce shortly before
serving for the best flavor.
Air Fryer Version
For a lighter option:
Step
1
Spray coated shrimp with cooking
spray.
Step
2
Air fry at:
400°F (204°C)
For:
8–10 minutes
Turning halfway through.
Step
3
Toss with Bang Bang sauce before
serving.
Delicious Variations
Bang
Bang Shrimp Tacos
Serve in tortillas with slaw and
avocado.
Bang
Bang Shrimp Bowls
Serve over rice with vegetables.
Coconut
Bang Bang Shrimp
Add shredded coconut to the coating.
Extra
Spicy Version
Increase the sriracha and add
cayenne pepper.
Serve over mixed greens.
Best Side Dishes
Pair this shrimp with:
Steamed
Rice
Absorbs the flavorful sauce.
Asian
Slaw
Adds crunch and freshness.
Fried
Rice
A hearty accompaniment.
Roasted
Vegetables
Balances the richness.
Garlic
Noodles
A delicious restaurant-style
pairing.
Nutritional Benefits
While indulgent, this dish also
provides valuable nutrients.
Shrimp
Contains
- Lean protein
- Selenium
- Vitamin B12
- Iodine
Lime
Juice Provides
- Vitamin C
- Fresh flavor
Garlic
Offers
- Antioxidants
- Natural flavor compounds
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight
container for up to:
2 days
Freezing
Freeze uncooked coated shrimp for up
to:
2 months
Reheating
Use an oven or air fryer to restore
crispiness.
Avoid microwaving whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is
Bang Bang Shrimp Very Spicy?
No.
It has moderate heat that can easily
be adjusted.
Can
I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes.
Thaw completely before cooking.
Can
I Bake Instead of Fry?
Absolutely.
Bake at 425°F (218°C) for
approximately 10–12 minutes.
What
Is the Best Oil for Frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut
oil work well.
Can
I Make the Sauce Ahead?
Yes.
Store in the refrigerator for up to
5 days.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious seafood dish that combines crispy fried
shrimp with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that delivers incredible flavor in
every bite. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, taco filling, or main
course, this recipe offers the perfect balance of texture and taste.
Quick to prepare and endlessly
customizable, Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp is guaranteed to become one of your
favorite seafood recipes. Once you experience the irresistible combination of
crunchy shrimp and creamy Bang Bang sauce, you'll understand why this dish
remains a restaurant and home-cooking favorite.
