Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp
Description
This Creamy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is a perfect balance of crispy shrimp and a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that clings to each bite. Inspired by restaurant-style appetizers, it’s ideal as a starter, over rice, or as a topping for tacos and salads. The shrimp are lightly battered and fried (or baked for a lighter version), then tossed in a creamy, tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and a hint of lime.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (frying) / 20 minutes (baking)
Total Time: 25–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
Vegetable oil for frying (or olive oil for baking)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2–3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
1 tsp honey
1 tsp lime juice
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Optional Garnishes
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
Dip each shrimp first into the egg, then coat with the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Frying Method:
Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
Baking Method (lighter option):
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place coated shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spray lightly with oil and bake 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
Taste and adjust spiciness or sweetness to your preference.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Place cooked shrimp in a large bowl.
Pour sauce over shrimp and toss gently to coat evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.
Great as an appetizer, over rice bowls, in tacos, or atop salads.Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Q2: Can I bake instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is healthier and still gives a good crunch. Use high heat and a light spray of oil.
Q3: How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
Mildly spicy. Adjust sriracha to taste—start with 1 tsp for mild, 2–3 tsp for medium heat.
Q4: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce 1–2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Toss the shrimp just before serving.
Q5: How do I keep shrimp crispy?
Serve immediately after coating with sauce, or keep fried shrimp on a wire rack in a warm oven until ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 4 Servings Total)
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Dietary Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 6 g
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Cholesterol: 200 mg
Sodium: 650 mg