There’s something about the perfect bowl of creamy pasta that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, and this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta delivers all that comfort with a flavorful twist. This recipe brings together tender shrimp, creamy pasta, and a slightly spicy, sweet, and tangy sauce inspired by the popular “bang bang” flavor. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s surprisingly quick and easy to whip up!

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate fusion of bold flavors and creamy textures. While the dish feels indulgent enough for a weekend dinner party, it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. The combination of creamy sauce and shrimp is perfect for anyone who loves seafood but also craves a little kick in their meal.

For me, this dish brings back memories of my first time trying “bang bang” sauce at a cozy seafood restaurant near the beach. That sweet-and-spicy tang lingered in my mind long after the meal, and I was determined to recreate it at home. Over time, I paired it with pasta for an ultimate comfort-food twist. It’s now a family favorite, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Bold Flavor: The creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce is a game-changer.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out the shrimp for chicken or even tofu to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s indulgent and satisfying—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• For the Shrimp:
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
• For the Pasta:
  • 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by seasoning the shrimp with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Personal Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp! Cook them in batches if needed so they sear beautifully instead of steaming.

2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. Set the cooked pasta aside.

3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet used for the shrimp, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Combine the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth. Add this sauce to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the cream sauce. Let everything simmer for another 2 minutes. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Pro Tip: Adjust the spice level here by adding more or less sriracha, depending on your preference.

5. Assemble the Dish:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the noodles in the sauce. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring every bite gets that creamy, flavorful coating.

6. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

• Cooking the Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. They only need a couple of minutes on each side!
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is great for thinning out the sauce while keeping it creamy.
• Customize Your Protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, this dish works beautifully with grilled chicken, turkey ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Fusion
• Diet: Seafood

Notes:

• This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• If you want to lighten things up, you can swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 26g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 21g

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for a better sear.

2. Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level is mild to medium, depending on how much sriracha you add. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of liquid (chicken broth, milk, or cream) to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, try these other comforting dishes:

• Garlic Butter Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta – A Comforting One-Pan Wonder!
• Avocado Pasta Salad – Creamy, Fresh, and Oh-So Delicious!

Conclusion:

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of indulgence and bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress. Its creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta is comfort food at its best. Don’t be surprised if your family starts requesting it on repeat—it’s just that good!

So, grab your apron, and let’s bring this restaurant-worthy dish into your home. It’s time to treat yourself to something delicious—you deserve it!

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