Delicious Bang Bang Shrimp: Easy Recipe for Takeout Lovers
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Sophie
The moment the warm scent of golden-brown shrimp fills my kitchen, I can t help but smile. There s something so comforting about recreating a beloved restaurant dish at home, especially when it s as fun and flavorful as Bang Bang Shrimp. This recipe came about during a casual dinner party, where I wanted to impress my friends without spending all day in the kitchen. A few simple ingredients like mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha come together to create a zesty sauce that takes these perfectly crispy shrimp to another level.
Perfectly seasoned and delightfully crunchy, this dish is not just a feast for the eyes but a joy to the palate. Whether you re craving a snack, looking to spice up a weeknight meal, or planning a gathering, Bang Bang Shrimp fits every occasion. It s easy, quick to whip up, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So let s dive into this delectable recipe that will transform your shrimp game and elevate your home-cooking adventures!
Why will you love Bang Bang Shrimp?
Simplicity: The steps are straightforward and manageable for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Flavor Explosion: A sweet and spicy sauce combines mayonnaise, Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha, giving an irresistible kick that will have everyone coming back for more.
Crispy Goodness: Lightly fried and golden, each shrimp offers a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, this recipe fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
Quick Prep: In under 30 minutes, you can serve up restaurant-quality shrimp right in your kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Your friends and family will rave about this dish. Consider serving it with a side of easy homemade coleslaw for an extra flavor punch!
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise A creamy base that brings richness to the sauce.
- Thai sweet chili sauce Adds a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness perfectly.
- Sriracha Spice it up with a dash of Sriracha for a flavorful kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
- Honey Enhances the sweetness and adds a hint of floral notes to the sauce.
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined for the best texture.
- Buttermilk Ensures that the shrimp stay tender and juicy while frying.
- Cornstarch Creates a crispy coating; for gluten-free options, substitute with rice flour.
For Frying
- Canola oil A neutral oil perfect for frying, allowing the flavor of Bang Bang Shrimp to shine through.
Dive into this recipe with the right ingredients, and you ll be on your way to making the best Bang Bang Shrimp that will surely impress your taste buds and your loved ones!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth and well-blended, then set aside to let the flavors meld.
Coat the Shrimp: Take the peeled and deveined shrimp and add them to a second bowl. Pour buttermilk over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is fully coated, which helps keep them tender during frying.
Prepare the Breading: In a third bowl, add the cornstarch. This will create that delightfully crispy coating that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottom pot, pour in 1 inch of canola oil. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches 375 °F on a candy thermometer, ensuring it s hot enough for fried goodness.
Bread the Shrimp: Working in batches, remove shrimp from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, coat each shrimp evenly in cornstarch, making sure every bit is covered for that perfect crunch.
Fry the Shrimp: Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown on each side. Continue with the remaining shrimp.
Coat and Serve: While the shrimp are still hot, toss them in the prepared sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if you d like to maintain the shrimp s crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover shrimp, reheat in an oven at 350 °F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, but still crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture.
Preparation Note: If you plan to store them, consider frying the shrimp without the sauce, so you can enjoy the ultimate freshness when you re ready to serve!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
Quality Shrimp: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp to ensure the best flavor and texture. Avoid overcooked shrimp, which can become tough.
Proper Coating: Make sure to coat the shrimp thoroughly in buttermilk and cornstarch. This creates a crispy, golden crust that enhances the overall taste of the Bang Bang Shrimp.
Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it s not hot enough, the shrimp will absorb oil and become greasy; too hot can burn the coating.
Batch Cooking: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pot can lead to uneven cooking and soggy shrimp.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with the sauce by adding different spices or adjusting the sweetness with more honey or chili sauce according to your preference for the best Bang Bang Shrimp experience.
Serve Immediately: For optimal flavor and crunch, serve the Bang Bang Shrimp right after coating them in the sauce.
Make Ahead Options
Bang Bang Shrimp is a fantastic dish for meal prep that saves time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce (mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey) and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in buttermilk and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours to keep them tender. When you re ready to serve, simply coat the shrimp in cornstarch and fry them fresh; this method ensures they maintain their crispy texture and flavor, making your Bang Bang Shrimp just as delicious as when made on the spot!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bring your table to life with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the flavors of your crispy seafood dish.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice soaks up the zesty sauce beautifully, providing a neutral backdrop to the bold flavors.
Thai Cucumber Salad: This fresh, crunchy salad adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich, spicy shrimp. Toss in a bit of lime juice for a pop of brightness.
Garlic Noodles: The savory undertone of garlic and soy in these noodles pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of your Bang Bang Shrimp, making every bite an explosion of flavor.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime over your shrimp brings out the seasoning and adds an extra burst of citrusy flavor that brightens the dish.
Chilled Coconut Water: The natural sweetness and lightness of coconut water serve as a perfect refreshing drink to balance the heat of the shrimp.
Sesame Green Beans: Saut ed with garlic and sesame oil, these tender green beans add a nutty flavor and vibrant color, making a well-rounded meal that s pleasing to the eye and palate.
Feel free to mix and match these side dishes and drinks to create a memorable dining experience that everyone will adore!
Variations & Substitutions for Bang Bang Shrimp
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!
Dairy-Free: Use almond or coconut milk as a buttermilk substitute for a dairy-free version, maintaining tenderness while adding a hint of nutty flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalape ±os or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra layer of heat that will excite your palate.
Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch for rice flour to create a crispy coating while keeping the dish gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Citrus Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of lime or lemon juice into the sauce for a refreshing zest that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh chopped cilantro or parsley to the coating for an aromatic herbal twist that elevates the flavor profile of each bite.
Air-Fried Option: For a healthier take, prepare the shrimp in an air fryer instead of frying, using a light spray of oil to achieve that crispy texture without extra calories.
Sweet & Savory Switch: Mix in some chopped pineapple to the sauce for a fun tropical twist that provides a delightful contrast to the heat of the Sriracha.
Crumbly Topping: After coating the shrimp, roll them in panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier, textured finish, perfect for those who love that irresistible crunch!
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
For the best Bang Bang Shrimp, opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight ocean scent. Avoid those with dark spots or a strong fish odor, as these can be signs of age.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, try to keep the sauce separately. This way, you can enjoy them warm and crunchy after reheating!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes! To freeze, place the cooked shrimp (without the sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they ll be good for up to 2 months. When you re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What if my shrimp turn out soggy after frying?
The more the merrier! If your shrimp end up soggy, it could be due to not coating them thoroughly with cornstarch or frying them in oil that s not hot enough. Make sure the oil reaches 375 °F before frying and coat them evenly for that delightful crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free cornstarch for a gluten-free option. Additionally, check the labels on the sauces for any allergens, like gluten or fish sauce, especially if you re serving friends or family with allergies.
How can I make the sauce spicier or milder?
Want to adjust the heat? Start with the Sriracha as mentioned in the recipe; you can always add more to your desired spice level. For a milder sauce, reduce the Sriracha or skip it entirely, relying on the sweetness of the Thai chili sauce and honey for flavor.