If you are looking for a dish that combines crispy, spicy, and creamy flavors with the perfect touch of heat and sweetness, this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is your new go-to. It’s irresistibly crunchy shrimp tossed in a luscious, zesty sauce that’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress anyone at your table. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe captures the perfect balance of textures and flavors that make Bang Bang Shrimp a beloved classic you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe relies on a few simple but essential ingredients that each play a big role in creating that perfect flavor and texture contrast. From the light crunch of panko crumbs to the spice of old bay seasoning and the creamy, tangy sauce, every component is a building block for success.
- 1 lb. shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed): Fresh shrimp ensures a tender, juicy center.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the seasoning.
- ½ tsp black pepper powder: Adds subtle heat without overpowering.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a base for the crispy coating.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides that signature light, airy crunch.
- 1 Tbsp old bay seasoning: Adds depth and a touch of savory spice.
- 1 large egg (beaten): Helps the breading stick snugly to the shrimp.
- Oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil that can reach high heat for perfect crisping.
- Cilantro (chopped for garnishing): Offers a fresh, bright contrast to the rich sauce.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
- 1 Tbsp sriracha: Delivers the spicy kick that defines this sauce.
- 2 Tbsp sweet chili sauce: Balances the heat with sweet, tangy goodness.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by gently seasoning your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. This simple step brings out the best flavor in your seafood and lays the groundwork for a deliciously balanced dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
Next, set up three bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko bread crumbs mixed with old bay seasoning. This classic dredging process will create that crispy, flavorful shell around each shrimp that makes Bang Bang Shrimp so irresistible.
Step 3: Double Coat for Extra Crunch
Take each shrimp and dip it first into the flour (shaking off excess), then into the egg, and finally coat it with the seasoned panko crumbs. For an even crunchier texture, repeat this dipping sequence once more. This double coating is the secret to the perfect crispy bite.
Step 4: Let the Shrimp Rest
After the shrimp are all coated, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This pause helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off when frying, ensuring maximum crunchiness in every bite.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a deep pan to around 375°F (190°C). Fry 9-10 shrimp at a time in medium heat oil to avoid overcrowding. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes until they’re crisp and golden brown but still tender inside. Keep an eye to avoid overcooking, which can make shrimp rubbery.
Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Remove the fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. This step keeps your shrimp delightfully crispy without being greasy.
Step 7: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce in a bowl to make the iconic bang bang sauce. The rich creaminess combined with spicy and sweet notes defines the dish’s bold and unforgettable flavor profile.
Step 8: Toss and Garnish
You can serve the shrimp with the sauce on the side or pour the sauce over the shrimp and toss them until well coated. Finally, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top to add brightness and a fresh herbal kick.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a must for garnishing Bang Bang Shrimp. Its lively, citrusy flavor cuts through the richness of the sauce, adding an herbaceous pop. Feel free to add a squeeze of lime or even some thinly sliced green onions for extra zing.
Side Dishes
Bang Bang Shrimp pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides like jasmine rice or a crisp green salad. Steamed or roasted veggies also complement the rich, spicy shrimp perfectly. For a casual setting, serve it alongside tortilla chips or crunchy slaw to add different textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic plated version, try serving Bang Bang Shrimp atop crispy lettuce cups for a fun finger-food option. You can also incorporate it into tacos, sandwiches, or even a vibrant poke bowl, making this recipe truly versatile for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 1-2 days to maintain the crunch and freshness of the shrimp and sauce.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked shrimp, the crispy texture will suffer upon thawing. For the best experience, freeze raw breaded shrimp separately on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them straight from frozen when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to regain some crispiness without drying out the shrimp. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery and diminish the delicate texture of the coating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before breading to avoid soggy coating. Using fresh or thawed shrimp works well to keep the texture crunchy and the flavor fresh.
What’s the best oil for frying the shrimp?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal. They fry the shrimp evenly and crisp up the coating nicely without imparting unwanted flavors.
Is the sauce very spicy?
The bang bang sauce has a nice balance of heat and sweetness, thanks to the combination of sriracha and sweet chili sauce. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to suit your taste.
Can I bake instead of fry the shrimp?
You can bake the shrimp for a healthier twist, but keep in mind that the texture will be less crispy compared to frying. Baking at a high temperature with a light spray of oil can help achieve a decent crunch.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap out all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like rice flour and gluten-free panko. The flavors stay just as amazing, while making it suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is a celebration of texture and flavor that’s so fun to make and even better to eat. Whether for a casual night in or impressing guests, this dish brings a burst of flavor and crunch that everyone will love. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite that deserves a regular spot on your menu!
