Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a total crowd-pleaser! The combination of tender shrimp, a spicy-sweet cream sauce, and the satisfying bite of pasta creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is quick, easy, and irresistibly tasty. Plus, the creamy sauce paired with the shrimp gives it a luxurious feel without the complicated prep.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce

• 2 limes, juiced

• 2 tablespoons sriracha

• 12 ounces medium shrimp, deveined and peeled

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil

• Garnish (optional): 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt generously. Cook the pasta to al dente, according to the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.

2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the garlic, paprika, salt, and onion powder to combine.

4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are nearly opaque.

5. Stir in the prepared sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce starts to simmer and thicken.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well. Serve immediately with freshly minced parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for an added layer of flavor and nutrition.

• Make it Spicier: Increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

• Use Other Seafood: You can substitute the shrimp with scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a different twist.

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Storage/Reheating

• Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This recipe is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce and shrimp may not thaw or reheat well.

• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the pasta over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Linguine or spaghetti works well, but penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta can be substituted.

2. How spicy is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference. With 2 tablespoons of sriracha, it's mildly spicy, but you can reduce the sriracha for less heat or add more if you like it hotter.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking.

4. Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy alternative.

5. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce it and thicken the consistency.

6. Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?

Yes, you can cook the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you're ready to add them to the sauce.

7. Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this pasta makes an excellent meal prep dish. Store the pasta in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

8. Can I add cheese to this pasta?

You can add grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella for an extra creamy, cheesy flavor.

9. How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Cook the shrimp just until they are opaque and slightly firm. Overcooking will result in rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, to make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative like avocado mayo or a plant-based yogurt.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that delivers bold flavors and rich textures in every bite. The creamy, spicy sauce combined with succulent shrimp and tender pasta is a guaranteed hit for family dinners or a cozy weeknight meal. This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit your tastes, making it a perfect go-to dinner for any occasion!