Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor and texture with this incredible Bang Bang Shrimp recipe! Imagine perfectly crispy shrimp coated in a rich, creamy, and wonderfully spicy sauce that leaves a delightful kick. This iconic dish, famously popularized by establishments like Bonefish Grill, can now be made right in your kitchen in under 30 minutes, offering a restaurant-quality experience with homemade ease. Get ready to dive into a world of irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for more!
Unveiling the Magic: Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Shines
What makes Bang Bang Shrimp so universally loved? It’s a harmonious blend of contrasting elements that create an unforgettable culinary experience. At its heart lies the perfect combination of succulent, perfectly fried shrimp and a dynamic, flavor-packed sauce. This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about crafting a dish where every component plays a crucial role in achieving that signature creamy, spicy, and satisfyingly crispy bite.
The secret begins with the preparation of the shrimp. A simple yet effective buttermilk and hot sauce marinade tenderizes the shrimp while also acting as a binder for the seasoned flour coating. This ensures that each piece of shrimp emerges from the hot oil with a golden, shatteringly crisp exterior, ready to absorb the luscious sauce. This foundational crispness is non-negotiable for authentic Bang Bang Shrimp.
Then there’s the sauce – truly the star of the show. Our Bang Bang sauce masterfully balances the richness of mayonnaise with the distinct sweet heat of Asian sweet chili sauce and the fiery punch of sriracha. This trifecta creates a complex profile that is both addictive and incredibly versatile. You’ll find yourself wanting to toss this sauce with everything, much like our Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe proves. The ease of the “dunk, fry, and devour” process makes this recipe not only delicious but also incredibly accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, promising a fantastic appetizer or main course in remarkably little time.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bang Bang Shrimp
Crafting the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. While the full, printable recipe with exact measurements is available at the end of this post, let’s explore the key components that bring this dish to life. Ensuring you have these on hand will set you up for success and a truly delicious meal.
Ingredient Breakdown & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing a few clever substitutions can elevate your cooking and adapt this recipe to your preferences or pantry. Here’s what you need to know:
- Shrimp: The Star Protein
For this recipe, large raw shrimp are your best bet. Look for shrimp that are peeled and deveined, with tails removed for easier eating, though leaving the tails on can make for a beautiful presentation. It is absolutely crucial to use thawed shrimp. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before marinating. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness and can prevent the batter from adhering properly, leading to a less satisfying texture. - The Iconic Bang Bang Sauce: Creamy, Sweet, and Spicy Perfection
The irresistible sauce is a simple yet brilliant combination of three components:- Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base and richness. For a lighter version, you can substitute with low-fat mayonnaise. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can be used for a tangier, healthier alternative, though it will alter the classic flavor slightly.
- Asian Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the secret ingredient that provides the perfect balance of sweetness, mild heat, and a touch of tang. It’s often labeled as “Thai Sweet Chili Sauce” and can be found in the ethnic foods aisle of most grocery stores or at any Asian market. Do not skip this; it’s essential for the distinctive Bang Bang flavor.
- Sriracha: Delivers the signature fiery kick. Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference. If sriracha isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with another hot sauce you enjoy, such as Cholula, Frank’s RedHot, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for pure heat. Keep in mind that different hot sauces will impart different flavor notes.
- Buttermilk & Hot Sauce Marinade: The Flavor Infuser
The buttermilk not only adds a subtle tangy flavor but, more importantly, tenderizes the shrimp, making it incredibly juicy. The hot sauce in the marinade complements the sriracha in the main sauce, building layers of flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a homemade substitute: add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill the rest of the way to ½ cup with regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. - Seasoned Flour Coating: Achieving Golden Crispy Perfection
All-purpose flour forms the backbone of our crispy coating. It’s seasoned with garlic salt, which adds an aromatic depth, and cayenne pepper, which contributes another layer of subtle heat and a hint of color. This simple seasoning ensures that even the coating itself is packed with flavor, not just plain flour. - Frying Oil: The Medium for Crispiness
Choose a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point for frying, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil. The key is to have enough oil to submerge the shrimp partially or fully, ensuring even cooking and crisping. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is paramount for perfect results.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Own Bang Bang Shrimp
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to guide you through the process, helping you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a concise, printable version complete with all measurements and instructions, scroll down to the full recipe card below.
- Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by lining a baking sheet with a few layers of paper towel. Place a wire rack on top of the paper towels. This setup will be essential for draining the excess oil from your fried shrimp, ensuring they remain wonderfully crispy.
- Whip Up the Signature Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Asian sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Whisk them together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and evenly blended. Taste and adjust the sriracha to your preferred level of spice. Set this delectable sauce aside, as it will be used at the very end.
- Create the Buttermilk Marinade: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce until well combined. This mixture will serve as a flavorful marinade and a sticky base for the flour coating.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place your prepared (peeled, deveined, and thoroughly patted dry) shrimp into a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk and hot sauce mixture over the shrimp. Toss gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to meld and the shrimp to tenderize slightly.
- Prepare the Seasoned Flour: In a gallon-sized zip-top plastic bag (or a shallow dish), combine the all-purpose flour, garlic salt, and cayenne pepper. Seal the bag and shake well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the flour. This creates your flavorful dredging mixture.
- Coat the Shrimp for Frying: Using a gloved hand (to avoid a messy sticky situation!), remove a few shrimp from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Transfer these shrimp to the bag with the seasoned flour. Seal the bag, leaving some air inside, and gently toss, turn, and shake until all the shrimp are completely coated. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the bag, which can lead to an uneven coating. Place the coated shrimp directly onto the prepared wire rack. This step helps the coating adhere better and prevents sogginess.
- Heat the Frying Oil: Pour enough neutral-flavored oil (like vegetable or canola oil) into a large deep-sided skillet to come about an inch up the sides. Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up gradually. It is crucial for the oil to reach a steady temperature of 350°F (175°C) before you start frying. Use an oil or candy thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the batter will absorb too much oil and become greasy and soggy; if it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the shrimp cooks through. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
- Fry the Shrimp to Golden Perfection: Once the oil reaches 350°F, carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil, one piece at a time, using tongs. Do not overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Fry the shrimp for approximately 3 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough. Once cooked, remove the fried shrimp with tongs and place them back onto the wire rack set over the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Allow them to rest for a few minutes while you fry the remaining batches.
- Toss and Serve: Once all the shrimp are fried and drained, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce generously over the crispy shrimp. Using a gloved hand or a spatula, carefully and gently toss the shrimp to ensure every piece is completely coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
While Bang Bang Shrimp is undeniably best enjoyed fresh off the skillet when it’s at its crispiest and sauciest, you can store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Be aware that as the shrimp sits, the crispy coating will inevitably absorb the sauce and soften, losing its initial crunch. It will still be delicious, but the texture will change.
Yes, you can reheat leftover Bang Bang Shrimp, but don’t expect it to be as crispy as when freshly made. For the best chance at regaining some crispness, avoid the microwave. Instead, try reheating in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will help crisp up the coating and warm the shrimp evenly.
Absolutely! While deep frying yields the crispiest results, you can also air fry or pan-fry the shrimp. For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the coated shrimp with cooking oil and air fry for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and cooked. For pan-frying, use about ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry in batches until golden and cooked through, similar to the deep-frying method, just with less oil.
Yes! The Bang Bang Sauce can be made several days in advance. Simply whisk all the sauce ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. This makes meal prep a breeze and allows the flavors to meld even further.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. While it’s a perfect appetizer to kick off any gathering, it also transforms beautifully into a satisfying main course. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
- Classic Appetizer: Simply pile the glorious shrimp onto a serving platter, perhaps garnished with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flair. Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
- Dynamic Main Course:
- Rice Bowls: Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, perhaps with some steamed broccoli or sautéed bell peppers for a complete meal.
- Tacos or Lettuce Wraps: Fill warm tortillas or crisp lettuce cups with the Bang Bang Shrimp, adding shredded cabbage, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a fresh, zesty meal.
- Salad Topper: Add a spicy, crispy protein boost to your favorite salad. A bed of mixed greens with cucumber, avocado, and a light vinaigrette would be perfect.
- Noodle Stir-fry: Toss the shrimp with stir-fried noodles and your favorite vegetables for a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
- Pairing Perfection:
- Drinks: A crisp, cold lager, a dry Riesling, or even a sparkling lemonade would complement the spicy and creamy notes of the shrimp.
- Side Dishes: Beyond rice and vegetables, consider serving with a light cucumber salad, a refreshing coleslaw, or simple steamed edamame.
The choice is entirely yours! The most important thing is to enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp immediately after tossing in the sauce to savor its peak crispiness and vibrant flavors.
Explore More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
If you love shrimp as much as we do, you’re in for a treat! Shrimp is a fantastic protein – quick to cook, versatile, and always delicious. After mastering this Bang Bang Shrimp, why not explore some of our other mouth-watering shrimp creations?
- Spicy Shrimp
- Crispy Shrimp
- Cajun Shrimp
- Hibachi Shrimp
- Shrimp Curry
- Boom Boom Shrimp
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Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp brings the heat AND the flavor. All you have to do is dunk, fry, then toss in spicy mayo sauce. That’s it!
Course: Appetizer, Dinner | Cuisine: American | Servings: 4 servings | Total Time: 26 mins
Calories: 367 | Author: Amanda Davis
Ingredients
- 1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ½ Tablespoon garlic salt
- 2 Tablespoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Asian sweet chili sauce
- 2 Tablespoons hot sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Vegetable oil for frying
Things You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Wire cooling rack
- Large deep sided skillet
- Candy thermometer
- Vinyl gloves
- Tongs
Before You Begin (Helpful Tips)
- I would not recommend using frozen shrimp for this recipe. Allow the shrimp to thaw before beginning and pat them dry. This way, the shrimp coating will stick and they will fry evenly.
- The sauce is a mixture of mayonnaise, Asian sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. You can find Asian sweet chili sauce, also sometimes known as Thai sweet chili sauce, in the ethnic aisle at your grocery store or at a local Asian grocer. Though it may change the flavor, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. Otherwise, you can substitute with low-fat mayo. The sriracha can be substituted with your favorite hot sauce if desired.
- Although Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed right away, you can store any leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. As the shrimp sits in the refrigerator, the coating will absorb the sauce which means it will not be as saucy or crispy as it was when you first made it.
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with paper towel, then add a wire rack on top.
- To make the sauce, in a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Asian sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Set aside.
- In another medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Place shrimp in a large bowl and add buttermilk mixture. Toss to coat.
- In a gallon-sized zip-top plastic bag, combine flour, garlic salt, and cayenne.
- Using a gloved hand, remove shrimp from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and add to the flour mixture in the bag. Gently toss, turn, and shake bag to completely coat all the shrimp. You may need to work in batches.
- Add enough oil to a large deep-sided skillet to come about an inch up the sides. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C) on an oil or candy thermometer. Heat over medium-high until hot, but not smoking.
TIP: Be sure that the oil comes to 350°F by testing it with a kitchen thermometer. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the batter may spread and not stay on the shrimp, resulting in a less crispy texture.
- Use tongs to add shrimp, one at a time, to the hot oil. Fry for 3 minutes then turn over and cook an additional 3 minutes. Shrimp will have a golden brown appearance. Remove to a wire rack over a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Allow to rest for a few minutes.
- Place shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle reserved sauce over the shrimp, and using a gloved hand, carefully turn shrimp to coat in sauce.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 367cal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 2152mg | Potassium: 220mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 501IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 1mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.