Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will wow your family or guests, then let me introduce you to my Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it combines crispy, tender shrimp with a creamy, tangy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is short, but you still want something special on the table. Plus, it makes an impressive appetizer for gatherings!

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish faster than takeout!
• Crispy and satisfying: The shrimp are perfectly fried until golden brown, providing that satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Family-friendly flavor: The creamy sauce balances sweetness and spice, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile serving options: Serve as an appetizer or as part of a main course with rice or veggies.
• Customizable heat level: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha to suit your taste buds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish! These items are easy to find at any grocery store, and I bet you’ll love how they come together to create something truly special.

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup whole milk and 1 tbsp lemon juice that has sat for 5 minutes)
• 3/4 cup cornstarch (or substitute with potato starch/tapioca starch)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 green onion (finely chopped for garnish)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise (or substitute with regular mayo)
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha (add more if you like it spicier)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to customize your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist!
• Add vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas with the shrimp for added color and nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute cornstarch with potato starch or tapioca starch to keep it gluten-free.
• Experiment with sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different sauces like garlic aioli or a spicy peanut sauce!

How to Make Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl with your peeled and deveined shrimp, add the buttermilk. Letting this sit for 10 minutes helps tenderize the shrimp and adds flavor. It’s such an easy step that makes all the difference!

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for your Bang Bang Sauce. This creamy mixture will coat your shrimp beautifully. Set it aside so it’s ready when your shrimp are crispy.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

In a shallow bowl or baking sheet, whisk together cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Dredge each piece of shrimp in this mixture to ensure they’re evenly coated. This step is crucial; it gives your shrimp that irresistible crunch!

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

In a large skillet or heavy-bottom pan, heat your oil over medium heat until it’s around 350°F. Fry the shrimp in batches until they’re golden brown—about 1.5 minutes per side. Remember not to overcrowd the pan; this helps keep them crispy!

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the oil and set them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. This will help get rid of any excess oil while keeping them crispy.

Step 6: Toss in Sauce

Transfer your crispy shrimp into a large bowl and pour that delicious sauce over top. Gently toss to combine everything evenly—this is where all those flavors meld together!

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy!

Finally, garnish your beautiful dish with finely chopped green onions. Enjoy every bite of these Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp—they’re bound to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that every bite is crispy and flavorful!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will not only taste better but also provide a firmer texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for the best results.
• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: Marinating the shrimp in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. If you’re using the milk and lemon juice substitute, remember to let it sit so it curdles slightly.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispiness. Use a thermometer if you have one, and adjust your heat as needed.
• Fry in Batches: Frying too many shrimp at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy shrimp. Take your time and fry in small batches for optimal crispiness.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your Bang Bang Shrimp right after tossing it in sauce. The longer it sits, the less crispy it will become!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Serving your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enjoy this dish even more.

Garnishes

• Finely Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Thinly Sliced Red Chili: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, sliced red chili peppers make an eye-catching garnish.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish brings a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spicy Bang Bang Sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with garlic adds nutrition and crunch.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy shrimp.
• Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add another layer of texture and flavor to your meal.

Enjoy your homemade Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp! Each bite will be bursting with flavor, making it a hit at any gathering or weeknight dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish anytime. Whether you want to make it ahead of time or store leftovers, it retains its flavor and crispiness, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
• To keep the shrimp crispy, avoid adding sauce until you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

• Place cooled Bang Bang Shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary.
• Use within 1-2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat shrimp in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp soggy.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you while preparing your Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this quick & easy bang bang shrimp recipe?

Yes! Just ensure that the frozen shrimp are fully thawed before marinating them in buttermilk. This will help maintain their texture during cooking.

What can I serve with quick & easy bang bang shrimp?

These shrimp make a great appetizer or can be served over rice or alongside a fresh salad. They pair well with steamed vegetables too!

How do I make the sauce spicier for my quick & easy bang bang shrimp?

To increase the heat, simply add more sriracha to your sauce mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Quick & Easy Bang Bang Shrimp as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience packed with flavor that brings people together. Enjoy it with friends or family, or savor it all by yourself! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and exploring new tastes—so dive in and enjoy every bite!