This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delightful mix of creamy sauce, spicy shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s sure to make your taste buds dance with joy!
I love how easy this dish comes together in just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. Plus, the flavor is bold, making it perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself! 🍤❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti works best for this dish, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta are great options if you’re looking for a different twist.
Shrimp: Large shrimp give the best bite, but you can use medium shrimp or even frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or mashed avocado instead. It will change the flavor slightly, but it’s delicious!
Spicy element: Adjust the heat with sriracha and red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, skip the sriracha or use a milder sauce like buffalo sauce.
Fresh herbs: Cilantro adds a fresh flavor, but parsley is a great substitute if you’re not a fan of cilantro. Fresh basil could also add a nice touch!
How Can I Ensure My Shrimp Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; overcooked shrimp become rubbery! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Use medium-high heat to quickly cook the shrimp.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Look for a pink, opaque color—this is when they’re done.
- If you see them curling tightly, they might be overcooked; aim for a gentle curve.
Keeping an eye on them while they’re cooking will help ensure they turn out perfectly juicy and tender!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (or more for extra heat)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta takes about 20 minutes in total: 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and get everything ready, and about 10 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add a good sprinkle of salt. Toss in your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce. Taste it and adjust the sriracha if you want it spicier. This creamy sauce is the star of your dish!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant, but watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn!
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They cook fast, so don’t leave them unattended!
4. Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over everything and toss gently until the pasta and shrimp are well coated. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything up and mix the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is mixed and warmed through, remove it from the heat. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty finish!
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy texture. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep it creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the shrimp!
