Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, spicy sauce with just the right amount of heat. The sauce, a mix of sweet Thai chili, sriracha, and lime juice, is rich and zesty, making this pasta dish a standout meal for weeknights or casual gatherings.
This recipe is quick to prepare, offering the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. Topped with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, it’s an irresistible fusion of comfort food and bold Asian-inspired flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Bold Flavors: The sauce brings a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Restaurant-Quality Dish: Impress family or guests with this flavorful pasta.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
• 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 10 ounces shrimp, deveined and peeled
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
• Red pepper flakes, for garnish
For the Sauce:
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
• ½ lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha sauce.
2. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
1. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
4. During the last 30 seconds of cooking, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
1. Turn off the heat and add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet with the shrimp.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and noodles.
3. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and red pepper flakes for garnish.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips
• Customize Heat Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Alternative Pasta: Substitute spaghetti with linguine or fettuccine if preferred.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s simple to make yet packed with restaurant-quality taste. Perfect for spice lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike!
