Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp is the crispy, creamy, spicy appetizer you didn’t know you needed. Tossed in a bold, sweet chili mayo sauce, this shrimp is shockingly addictive and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether pan-fried or air-fried, it’s perfect for dinner, game night, or whenever cravings hit hard.

Intro & Personal Story

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

We still remember the first time we tried Bang Bang Shrimp back when we were teens on a family trip to the Gulf Coast. We’d just come in from the beach, sun-kissed and starving, when a tiny seafood shack offered us something we’d never heard of before: Bang Bang Shrimp. One bite in, and it was crispy, creamy, spicy perfection. We were hooked.

So, what exactly is Bang Bang Shrimp? At its heart, it’s crispy-fried shrimp tossed in a bold, creamy, sweet chili sauce with just enough heat to keep things interesting. Originally popularized by Bonefish Grill, this dish is now a must-make at home especially for shrimp lovers who crave restaurant-style flavor without leaving the house. Think golden-fried shrimp with a whisper of garlic, then smothered in a luscious blend of Japanese mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It’s sweet, it’s spicy, and totally addictive.

And the best part? Our version is done in under 30 minutes just like our Firecracker Steak and Shrimp or our saucy Chicken and Shrimp Pad Thai. Fast flavor is our forever favorite.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish checks all the boxes. It’s:

• Quick: Ready in just 26 minutes from prep to plate.
• Crispy + Creamy: That perfect textural balance we all crave.
• Customizable: Mild or spicy, pan-fried or air-fried you’re in control.
• Better than takeout: Fresher, crispier, and totally crave-worthy.

We’ve tested this recipe to work in both a skillet and the air fryer, so no matter your kitchen setup, you’re covered. Serve it on lettuce cups, stuff it in tacos, or pair it with rice Bang Bang Shrimp fits every mood.

It’s also a great way to introduce bold flavor to guests who might be shy around spice. The heat is mellowed by creamy mayo, while the chili sauce adds a sweet undertone that even picky eaters enjoy.

And of course, it’s another excuse for us to use shrimp one of our favorite no-fuss proteins. We keep frozen bags on hand for recipes like our Florida Shrimp Pie or the summer-ready Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa. Shrimp just makes everything better.

Quick Overview

If you’ve got a craving for something bold, crispy, and a little fiery, Bang Bang Shrimp is your answer. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor using pantry basics and minimal effort no fancy tools or deep fryer needed. Whether it’s for a party platter, game day snack, or casual weeknight indulgence, you’ll be obsessed with how fast this comes together.

Why It Works:

• Ready in just 26 minutes from start to finish
• Makes a generous appetizer or light dinner for four
• Can be pan-fried or air-fried with equally crispy results
• The Bang Bang sauce coats every shrimp in creamy, spicy bliss

It’s fast, it’s flavorful, and every bite is perfectly balanced. The crunchy exterior from the cornstarch dredge holds up beautifully under that signature sauce, making Bang Bang Shrimp a dish you’ll want on repeat just like our quick Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packet Dinner or the vibrant Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad.

At a glance:

This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is truly the perfect storm of flavor, speed, and simplicity. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.

Ingredients

Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is easier than it looks and with the right ingredients, the flavor rivals your favorite restaurant version. Everything you need is simple, easy to find, and may already be in your pantry or fridge.

Here’s what goes into this addictive Bang Bang Shrimp recipe:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off your choice)
• 1 cup buttermilk, or substitute with 1 cup whole milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice (let sit 5 minutes)
• ¾ cup cornstarch (or use potato or tapioca starch for a gluten-free twist)
• 1 cup vegetable oil or any high-heat neutral oil (like canola or avocado oil)
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 green onion, finely chopped (for garnish)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred, but regular mayo works too)
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha, or more to taste for heat lovers

Ingredient Purpose Breakdown

We’ve tested this recipe with different shrimp sizes, but jumbo really brings out the best in Bang Bang Shrimp. Their meatiness stands up to the crispy coating and the rich sauce.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Crushed red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
• Fresh lime juice (to brighten the sauce)
• Chopped cilantro or sesame seeds (for garnish)

And if you’re already in shrimp mode, check out our Apple Almond Shrimp Salad or the tropical Thai Shrimp Rolls with Noodles for other shrimp-centric dishes we love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is not only quick it’s seriously satisfying. Here’s how to get that crave-worthy crispy shrimp coated in sweet heat, every time. Follow each step, and you’ll have a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant.

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Place your peeled and deveined shrimp into a medium bowl. Pour in the buttermilk and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and makes the coating stick like magic.

Step 2: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine your Japanese mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust heat if needed. Set this aside it’s the soul of your Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Dredge
In a shallow bowl or on a rimmed plate, mix the cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. This blend gives the shrimp that golden crunch.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
Lift each marinated shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge in the cornstarch mixture. Make sure every shrimp is fully coated and shake off the excess.

Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy skillet (we like a 10-inch cast iron), heat the vegetable oil over medium. The oil should reach about 350°F. Use a digital thermometer or drop a pinch of starch if it sizzles instantly, it’s ready.

Step 6: Fry the Shrimp
Working in batches, add shrimp to the hot oil. Fry for 1.5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan this keeps the Bang Bang Shrimp light and crisp.

Step 7: Drain and Rest
Transfer cooked shrimp to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate. This helps remove excess oil and keeps them from getting soggy.

Step 8: Toss in the Sauce
In a clean mixing bowl, add the hot, crispy shrimp and pour the Bang Bang sauce over top. Gently toss with a spatula or spoon until every piece is coated.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Top your Bang Bang Shrimp with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Serve immediately for that fresh, crispy bite.

Air Fryer Instructions:
Prefer a lighter version? Try air frying.

1. Spray your air fryer basket lightly with neutral oil.
2. After dredging, place the shrimp in a single layer no overlap.
3. Lightly spray the shrimp again.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway.

The result? Bang Bang Shrimp that’s just as golden and crispy as the skillet version, with a fraction of the oil.

We love serving these on a tray with extra sauce on the side just like we do with our crowd-pleasing Florida Shrimp Pie or this easy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Shrimp is more than just an appetizer it’s a full-on flavor explosion that fits into almost any meal.Lunch, snack, or a light meal — works in all three.

Make it a Main Dish
Spoon Bang Bang Shrimp over jasmine rice or sticky rice for a complete, no-stress dinner. Add steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side for balance, and you’ve got a spicy, creamy, crispy bowl of goodness that satisfies.

Serve It in Lettuce Cups
Chilled romaine or butter lettuce makes the perfect low-carb wrap. Add shredded carrots and a drizzle of extra sauce. It’s crunchy, cool, and a fantastic finger food.

Tuck It in Tacos
This is one of our favorite twists. Load Bang Bang Shrimp into warm tortillas, top with cabbage slaw, and finish with a lime wedge. It’s a fast weeknight taco win.

Pile It on a Salad
If you’re in the mood for something light, serve this over mixed greens with chopped mango, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette. Just like our Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad, it’s bright, refreshing, and ready in minutes.

Platter It for Parties
Bang Bang Shrimp makes an impressive appetizer when piled high on a serving tray. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts, and serve with toothpicks. Your guests won’t stop at one.

Pair It with Sides
Some sides we love with Bang Bang Shrimp include:

• Coconut rice or fried rice
• Sweet chili noodles
• Garlic butter edamame
• Crispy wonton strips
• Roasted or pickled veggies

Want more shrimp-forward ideas? Don’t miss our crunchy Thai Shrimp Rolls with Noodles or this tropical Apple Almond Shrimp Salad for summer-ready vibes.

Bang Bang Shrimp adapts to whatever you’re craving whether that’s a family dinner or a fun party snack with a little heat.

Pro Tips & Storage

When it comes to cooking Bang Bang Shrimp, a few small moves make a big difference. These tips will help you fry smarter, keep things crispy, and enjoy leftovers like a pro.

1. Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Soak
That quick 10-minute soak does more than soften the shrimp it helps the cornstarch coating cling better, resulting in a crispier bite. If you don’t have buttermilk, whole milk with lemon juice works like a charm.

2. Go Light with the Dredge
Shake off excess cornstarch before frying. Too much can make the shrimp gummy or overly thick. The right amount gives Bang Bang Shrimp its signature crunch.

3. Keep the Oil Hot
Use a thermometer if you have one. Aim for 350°F. Too cool and the shrimp will soak up oil; too hot and you’ll overcook them in seconds.

4. Fry in Small Batches
Crowding the pan drops the oil temperature fast and leads to soggy results. Fry 6–8 shrimp at a time depending on the size of your skillet.

5. Toss Gently in Sauce
Once your shrimp are golden and drained, add them to a bowl with the sauce and gently stir. You want every piece coated, but still crispy. If you’re meal-prepping, keep the Bang Bang Shrimp and sauce separate until you’re ready to eat.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator:
Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store sauce separately for the best texture.

Reheating:
Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven at 350°F for 4–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving Bang Bang Shrimp loses its crisp in seconds.

Freezing:
We don’t recommend freezing once cooked. However, you can freeze the battered (unfried) shrimp on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry from frozen at 375°F for slightly longer.

Repurpose Leftovers:

• Add to salads
• Wrap in rice paper rolls
• Mix into fried rice or noodles
• Turn into spicy sliders

If you’re into batch-cooking, you’ll love using leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in dishes like our Shrimp and Sausage Foil Packet Dinner or even topping it over a Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa for round two of flavor.

With the right care, your Bang Bang Shrimp stays crispy, bold, and fully crave-worthy even after the first day.

FAQs

When you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dish that hits all the right notes crispy, creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang Shrimp delivers every time. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough to serve at your next gathering.

From the perfectly seasoned shrimp to the addictively bold sauce, this is one of those recipes that disappears fast. And because it’s so versatile, you can serve it in tacos, over rice, on salads, or simply with toothpicks for the ultimate party snack.

If you try this Bang Bang Shrimp at home, don’t forget to share it with us! We’d love to see your creations over on Pinterest or Facebook we might even feature your photo on the blog.

Now go grab that bowl of sauce, fire up your skillet (or air fryer), and let’s make some delicious memories with this crispy, saucy favorite.

The Cooking Twins Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp

By Emma & Ella

Bang Bang Shrimp is the ultimate crispy shrimp recipe tossed in creamy, spicy-sweet chili sauce. It's quick, bold, and made in just 26 minutes.

Print RecipeCook Mode

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

6 min

Total Time

26 min

Servings

4

Category

Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine

Asian, South-East Asian

Method

Pan-Fried or Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 lb Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice) ¾ cup cornstarch (or potato/tapioca starch) 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying) ¾ tsp salt ¾ tsp garlic powder ½ tsp black pepper 1 green onion, finely chopped (for garnish)   Bang Bang Sauce: ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise (or regular mayo) ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce 2 tbsp sriracha sauce

Instructions

1. Add shrimp to buttermilk: Add shrimp to buttermilk in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to tenderize.
2. Mix all Bang Bang: Mix all Bang Bang Sauce ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, mix: In another bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and pepper.
4. Remove shrimp from buttermilk: Remove shrimp from buttermilk and dredge in starch mixture.
5. Heat oil in skillet: Heat oil in skillet to 350°F. Fry shrimp in batches for 1.5 minutes per side.
6. Transfer to paper towel: Transfer to paper towel or rack to drain excess oil.
7. In a large bowl: In a large bowl, toss fried shrimp with Bang Bang sauce.
8. Garnish with green onions: Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Notes

To air fry: Spray air fryer basket with oil, add coated shrimp, spray lightly, and cook at 400°F for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway. For crisp texture, store sauce separately until serving.

Serving size

1

Calories

356

Protein

3

Carbohydrates

34

Fat

23

Fiber

1

Sugar

11

Sodium

1011

Saturated fat

4

Unsaturated fat

18

Trans fat

0.1

Cholesterol

18