This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that mixes shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce and pasta. It’s a perfect way to enjoy shrimp in a fun and filling meal!
I love how quick it is to whip up this dish—just cook the pasta, toss in the shrimp, and drizzle that yummy sauce over everything. It’s like a party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend fettuccine or linguine for their ability to hold sauce well. You can swap it with spaghetti or any gluten-free pasta if needed.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is the best choice for flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp works great too—just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Bang Bang Sauce: This sauce is key for that creamy, spicy kick. If you’re avoiding mayo, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo as a substitute. Adjust the sriracha for your spice level!
Panko Breadcrumbs: For added crunch, panko is fantastic. If you don’t have any, regular breadcrumbs can work, but they won’t be as crispy. You can also use crushed crackers or skip them altogether for a lighter dish.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp to Perfection?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get them just right! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked and flavorful shrimp:
- Make sure the shrimp are dry before seasoning; this helps them sear better.
- Heat the olive oil until it shimmer—this indicates it’s hot enough for a quick cook.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done.
- Remove them from the skillet promptly to avoid overcooking; they’ll continue to cook from residual heat.
With these tips and insights, you’ll create a delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta that stands out!
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Garlic Butter:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes on prep (like peeling shrimp and mixing the sauce), and the cooking should take about 15 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Set this delicious sauce aside for later.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet until they turn pink and are slightly charred, about 2 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them on a plate.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta back into the skillet with the garlic butter. Pour in the Bang Bang sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
6. Add Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts and gets incorporated into the pasta.
7. Mix in the Shrimp:
Gently return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the shrimp, pasta, and sauce evenly.
8. Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
In a small pan, toast the panko breadcrumbs over medium heat until they are golden and crispy. Remove them from heat.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the Bang Bang shrimp pasta, sprinkling the toasted panko breadcrumbs over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired.
10. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and dive into your creamy, spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. Enjoy every bite!
This dish beautifully combines creamy and spicy flavors with tender shrimp and pasta, topped off with a crunchy breadcrumb layer and fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or linguine work best for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking times!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes, you can definitely amp up the spice! Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to your taste, or add red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp for extra heat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce gets too thick.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.