Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp in 20 Minutes Flat!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ⅓ cup mayonnaise (the creamy base that gives the sauce its rich texture); ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce (brings a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess); 1 minced garlic (enhances the sauce with aromatic flavor); 1 tablespoon sriracha (adds a spicy kick to make it extra exciting); ½ cup whole milk (keeps the shrimp moist during frying); 2 tablespoons sour cream (adds a hint of tanginess to the coating mixture); ½ cup all-purpose flour (creates a crispy exterior when fried); ¼ cup cornstarch (enhances crispiness for that satisfying crunch); ½ teaspoon salt (essential for basic seasoning); ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (adds depth to the flavor profile); ¼ teaspoon paprika (gives color and a mild, sweet flavor); 1-1.5 inches canola oil (provides the necessary crispiness)

There’s something magical about sizzling shrimp hitting the hot oil, filling the kitchen with an inviting aroma that warms the soul. This crispy Bang Bang Shrimp recipe captures that essence, delivering a delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers when you want to take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you choose to deep fry or air-fry, this adaptable recipe suits all cooking styles and palates, while the sweet and spicy sauce elevates every crunchy bite. Are you ready to dip into this flavor fiesta and create your new favorite appetizer?

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes needed, this dish fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle without compromising on flavor.

Deliciously Versatile: Choose between traditional frying or a healthier air-fried option, making it adaptable for every taste and preference.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet and spicy sauce turns every bite into a burst of flavor, making it the ideal appetizer for parties or game days.

Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu and spice up the sauce with extra sriracha for those who love heat! Try Bang Bang Salmon for a different twist!

Perfect Texture: Enjoy a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp inside, creating a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

• Get ready to create this delightful dish!

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – the creamy base that gives the sauce its rich texture.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – brings a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess.
Minced Garlic – enhances the sauce with aromatic flavor.
Sriracha – adds a spicy kick to make it extra exciting.

For the Shrimp Coating

Whole Milk – keeps the shrimp moist during frying.
Sour Cream – adds a hint of tanginess to the coating mixture.
All-Purpose Flour – creates a crispy exterior when fried.
Cornstarch – enhances crispiness for that satisfying crunch.
Salt – essential for basic seasoning.
Ground Black Pepper – adds depth to the flavor profile.
Paprika – gives color and a mild, sweet flavor.

For Frying

Canola Oil – provides the necessary crispiness; alternatively, use olive or avocado oil.

The combination of these Bang Bang Shrimp ingredients will elevate your appetizer game!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of whole milk, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice until smooth. This creamy mixture will keep your shrimp moist during frying. Once combined, take your deveined and peeled shrimp and dredge them in the mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated before letting excess drip off.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of paprika. This dry blend is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy coating for your Bang Bang shrimp. Take the milk-dipped shrimp and coat them thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Fry Shrimp
Heat about 1 to 1.5 inches of canola oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 325°F (use an oil thermometer for accuracy). Once hot, carefully add the shrimp in small batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking and perfect crunchiness.

Step 4: Make Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are frying, prepare the Bang Bang sauce in a medium bowl. Combine ⅓ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha for a deliciously sweet and spicy kick. Stir until well blended and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Coat Shrimp in Sauce
Once all the shrimp are cooked and still warm, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the crispy shrimp and gently toss them to coat evenly. The warmth of the shrimp will help the sauce adhere and infuse each bite with that incredible flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Plate the coated Bang Bang shrimp immediately while they’re hot and crispy. For an added touch, you might serve them with lime wedges and a sprinkle of green onions. This vibrant presentation makes for an inviting appetizer that will surely impress your guests!

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp?

Elevate your dining experience with side dishes and pairings that complement this delightful appetizer, creating a meal your guests will remember.

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy shrimp, balancing flavors beautifully. It’s also a great make-ahead option that saves you time.
Garlic Butter Rice: Fragrant rice sautéed in garlic butter adds a comforting element, soaking up the delicious Bang Bang sauce in every bite. It’s the perfect vehicle for those bold flavors!
Grilled Vegetables: Fresh, charred veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a smoky flavor and vibrant color to your plate, enhancing the overall meal presentation.
Crispy Potatoes: Opt for seasoned, roasted or fried potatoes for an added layer of crunch that pairs well with the shrimp’s texture. Their mild flavor will help balance the heat in the sauce.
Citrus Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, oranges, and a zesty vinaigrette provides brightness, cleansing the palate and keeping the meal feeling fresh.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like homemade sweet tea or lemonade combat the spicy shrimp, making for a delightful combo that your family will love.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Finish your meal with a decadent dessert! The warm molten cake and its rich chocolate flavor contrast with the savory shrimp while leaving your guests swooning for more.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are fantastic for meal prep, making them perfect for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp coating (milk, sour cream, flour, cornstarch, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For an even simpler option, you can bread the shrimp in the coating, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 hours before frying. This helps maintain their crunch when cooked. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the shrimp until golden brown, then coat them in the delicious Bang Bang sauce for restaurant-quality delights at home!

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Bang Bang Shrimp with these fun and tasty variations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs!

Greek Yogurt: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the sauce for a lighter, tangy twist that matches perfectly with the spices.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: Substitute shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken bites for a delightful twist; it works beautifully with the sauce!
Vegan Option: Use tofu instead of shrimp and replace the mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise to create a fantastic plant-based version.
Different Spices: Want to mix it up? Add paprika, cayenne, or even smoked paprika to the dredging mixture for a unique flavor boost.
Honey or Agave: For a twist on the sweetness, drizzle honey or agave syrup into the sauce for a richer taste that balances the spice.
Dipping Sauce: Pair your shrimp with additional dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or a homemade cilantro-lime crema for extra flavor layers.
Less Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or try using a mild sauce instead, like a chili garlic sauce.
Crunchy Panko: For an incredibly crunchy texture, substitute corn starch for panko breadcrumbs in the coating for an irresistible crunch!

Whichever way you choose to customize your Bang Bang Shrimp, it will surely be a hit! If you’re interested in trying something similar, check out the crispy Bang Bang Salmon or the sizzling Spicy Garlic Shrimp for more delicious ideas!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Preparation Tip: Slice up any remaining shrimp into salads or wraps for a quick and flavorful meal!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oil Temperature Matters: Maintaining the oil at 325°F is crucial; too hot will burn your shrimp, while too cool means soggy bites.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches to ensure even cooking and that delightful crunch every time.

• Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness: For an even thicker, crunchier coating, dip your shrimp back into the milk mixture and then coat them in the flour mix again—this elevates your Bang Bang Shrimp to a whole new level!

• Choose Your Frying Method: If you’re air-frying, adjust the temperature and cooking time for perfectly crispy shrimp without the extra oil.

• Flavor it Up: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice level of the sauce by adding more sriracha, or introduce different hot sauces to create your signature Bang Bang flavor!

Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, about 21-25 per pound, as they offer juiciness and avoid rubbery textures. When purchasing, look for shrimp that are firm and translucent without any dark spots or unpleasant odors.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang shrimp?
To keep your leftover Bang Bang shrimp fresh, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Can I freeze Bang Bang shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first arrange the cooked Bang Bang shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

What if my shrimp aren’t crispy enough?
Very common! Make sure your oil temperature is at 325°F when frying; too hot can burn them, while too cool will lead to soggy shrimp. If they don’t turn out crispy, consider double-dipping: after the first fry, toss them in the milk mixture again, then in the flour mix before a second fry.

Can I adjust the sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions?
Of course! If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce. For those with spice sensitivities, reduce the sriracha, or swap it with a milder hot sauce. It’s all about making it your own!

Is Bang Bang shrimp safe for pets?
While shrimp can be safe in small amounts for dogs, avoid giving them any sauce due to ingredients like garlic and sriracha, which are harmful to pets. Always consult your veterinarian before adding new foods to your pet’s diet.